Information on Soapy Massage

The most common hits on an Internet search regarding Soapy Massage takes you to sites on massage parlors in Thailand. The services offered would not be legal in the United States with the possible exception of some counties in Nevada. Some U.S. spas may offer a relaxation massage and include a soaping step, but this would be as part of a more traditional massage. Any U.S. establishment offering a Thailand-style soapy massage is implying non-massage services, which may lead the customer into unfortunate legal situations.

What to Look for

• In a legitimate U.S. therapeutic massage clinic, the emphasis is on therapy. For a first-time customer, the receptionist or massage therapist should go over your physical condition to determine if there are any contraindications (possible negative results if you receive a massage) or areas requiring special precautions during the massage. This is generally done on a patient record form as with any medical establishment.

  If you are not screened and the therapist does not have a license or registration (required in most states), then you are probably not at a legitimate massage therapy clinic and you should leave.

Spas And Relaxation Massage

• Spas are generally more about pampering and relaxation than about physical therapy. Run as legitimate businesses, professionally run spas serve a need.

  Massages given at spas must meet the same legal requirements as massages given at massage therapy clinics. The masseur or masseuse (male or female therapist), must meet the same state registration standards as the therapists at massage clinics.
  Since spa massages are more often geared towards relaxation, they may offer multiple-step packages, including a pre-massage or post-massage shower or jacuzzi bath. Even with those packages, there will be no legitimate cause for the therapist to interact with a completely disrobed client.

What Is Soapy Massage?

• As practiced in Thailand, the soapy massage includes the masseuse bathing with the client. Then the client will lay on an air mattress and the masseuse will lather the client with soap.

  Beyond that point, the soapy massage goes into areas which are not allowed by U.S. law, but are effectively legal in Thailand.

Soapy Massage Same as Thai Massage?

• A Thai massage is most often done with the patient laying on a mat or futon. The client and therapist are fully clothed in loose-fitting (pyjama-like) clothes for the entire massage. A proper Thai massage is different from the Swedish therapeutic massage most commonly found in U.S. massage therapy clinics.

  Although different than Swedish, Thai massage offers many of the same therapeutic benefits.

Finding Information on Soapy Massage in Thailand

• If you are in Thailand and operating under Thai laws, there are a number of city-oriented Internet sites regarding Soapy Massage. The cities of Pattaya and Bangkok offer the largest numbers of parlors featuring Soapy Massage options.