Body Scrub

    An exfoliating treatment often offered before massage sessions.

    A body scrub is an exfoliating treatment using salt, sugar, or other granular substances mixed with oils or moisturizers. When offered as a pre-massage treatment, body scrubs remove dead skin cells, improve circulation, and prepare the skin to better absorb the benefits of massage oils or nuru gel. Many NYC studios offer scrub-and-massage combination packages.

    How it is used in practice

    When considering a body scrub as part of a bodywork experience, clients typically choose this treatment to prepare their skin for subsequent massage. The process often begins with the client lying on a specialized wet table. A trained professional gently applies the granular mixture across the body, using careful, circular motions. This manual exfoliation is designed to remove surface impurities and encourage skin renewal. Following the scrub, the client is rinsed thoroughly, usually with a hand-held shower, leaving the skin feeling smooth and receptive. This preparation can enhance the tactile sensation of a following massage, such as a nuru glide session, by creating an optimal surface for gel application and glide. It's an intentional step for those seeking comprehensive skin conditioning alongside their bodywork.

    Related Terms

    • Nuru Gel — A colorless, odorless massage medium derived from nori seaweed.
    • Table Shower — A pre-massage rinse using a multi-headed shower fixture on a waterproof table.
    • Aftercare — Post-session self-care practices that extend massage benefits.

    Common questions about body scrub

    What should I expect during a body scrub session?

    You can expect to lie on a waterproof table while a therapist applies a granular product to your skin. Gentle, sweeping motions remove dead skin cells. Afterward, you will be rinsed clean, preparing your skin for further treatments or to simply feel refreshed.

    How does a body scrub complement a massage session?

    A scrub primes the skin by removing dead cells, making it feel smoother and more receptive. This creates an optimal surface for the application of massage oils or nuru gel, potentially enhancing the sensation of glide and overall skin contact during the subsequent bodywork session.