In the US, 15–20% is the standard tip for massage therapists and spa staff. Spa professionals provide skilled, physical service and rely on tips to supplement their income — especially those who rent treatment rooms independently.
| Service | Tip Amount |
|---|---|
| Swedish / Relaxation massage | 15–20% |
| Deep tissue massage | 15–20% |
| Hot stone massage | 15–20% |
| Prenatal massage | 15–20% |
| Facial / Esthetician | 15–20% |
| Body wrap / Scrub | 15–20% |
| Manicure / Pedicure | 15–20% or $5 minimum |
| Waxing | 15–20% |
| Medical spa / Dermatology procedure | Not expected (medical service) |
💡 Medical spa exception: If your spa visit is for a medical or clinical procedure (Botox, laser, fillers, or medical-grade peels), tipping is generally not expected — just as you would not tip a doctor. For aesthetician services performed in the same facility, tipping is appropriate.
Yes — and this is very important. Always tip based on the full original price, not the discounted Groupon or voucher price. If a massage normally costs $120 and you paid $60, tip 15–20% of $120 ($18–24). Tipping on the discounted price deprives the therapist of fair compensation for the same quality of work.
Yes. Hotel spas are some of the most commonly under-tipped environments. Even at luxury resorts where you are paying premium prices, the spa staff are typically not included in any resort fee. A 15–20% tip is appropriate. Some hotel spas add a service charge — check your receipt before adding more.
Cash is almost always preferred at spas and salons. It goes directly to your therapist without any processing fees. If you need to tip by card, most spa reception desks can add it to your bill — but ask if it goes directly to your therapist or into a pool.
Tip 15-20% for massage therapy at a spa or hotel. Always tip on the original price, not a discounted or Groupon price. For a $100 massage at 20%, that's $20. Cash tips go directly to the therapist the same day.
At medical spas, it depends on who performs the service. Estheticians and massage therapists: tip 15-20%. Licensed medical professionals performing Botox, fillers or laser treatments: no tip expected — these are clinical services.
For a 60-minute massage, tip 15-20% of the service price. On a $90 massage, that's $13.50-18. Round up to the nearest $5 for simplicity. Cash is preferred — it reaches the therapist immediately without delays.
Enter your service total and choose 15% or 20% on our free tip calculator.
Try TheTipCalc Free →Tip 15–20% at spas and for massage in the US. Always tip on the original price, not a discounted rate. Tip your esthetician and massage therapist separately if multiple people serve you. Cash is preferred. Skip the tip only for medical/clinical procedures.
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