Massage FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of Massage?
Even if you don’t have a specific health issue, massage therapy can provide many benefits, such as:
- Increased circulation
- Stimulation of the lymph system, the body's natural defense against toxic invaders
- Release of endorphins, the body's natural painkiller
- Improved range of motion and decreased discomfort associated with lower back pain
- Relaxation of injured and overused muscles
- Reduced muscle spasms and cramping
- Increased joint flexibility
- Help recover from strenuous workouts
- Pain relief from migraines
- Reduce post-operative adhesions and edema, as well as reduced scar tissue
The added benefit of massage therapy at Elements Massage™ is something we call The Elements Promise™. If your massage doesn’t live up to your expectations, let us know — and the next one is on us.
What if I am unable to login to my account?
Please call the local studio where the membership originated or where you had your last massage if you have trouble logging into your online account. One of the studio’s Wellness Membership Advisors will be able to help you gain access to your account.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
The massage therapist's time has been reserved especially for you. Please follow the local studio’s policies to reschedule or cancel your appointment to avoid any late cancellation fees.
Why Am I Sore After A Massage?
After your massage that same day, there are some easy, pleasant things you can do to help prevent some of the next-day soreness:
- Be purposeful about your water intake, both before and after your appointment. As mentioned above, hydrated muscles are more flexible. Also, there are some strongly-held beliefs that drinking water after a massage can help to flush away the toxins released by massage. Staying hydrated is never a bad idea, and before or after a massage session is no different.
- Do some gentle stretching that evening, paying special attention to your trouble spots that received the most attention during your massage.
- Take a warm bath, ideally with Epsom salts (1/2 cup to 1 cup for adults), and soak for 20-40 minutes. Epsom salts are an inexpensive and effective way to further help your body rid itself of toxins and reduce muscle inflammation. You also get the added bonus of absorbing the beneficial magnesium found in Epsom salts through your skin.
As your body becomes accustomed to regular massages, you’ll experience the next-day soreness less frequently, making the experience that much more pleasurable. If you are looking for a wonderful massage, contact your local Elements Massage.
Coupons or Discounts
Coupons or discounts cannot be combined with any other offers.
Lost or Stolen Gift Cards
If using a gift card to pay for the session, you must present the gift card at the time of service. Some gift cards are valid only at the independently owned and operated Elements Massage studios identified on the card. Session-based gift cards cannot be split into shorter sessions and are redeemable for the session type identified on the card’s front. Gratuity is not included. Gift Cards cannot be used toward membership autopays or other gift cards. There is no cash value for gift cards and they cannot be replaced if damaged, lost, or stolen. There is no cash redemption for gift cards unless required by law and then only to the extent required by law.
Clients of Minor Age
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Studios service minors under the age of 18 with written consent (Minor Consent Form & Client Intake Form) from a parent or guardian prior to performing the massage. Parents/Guardians must remain in the massage room during the entire session.
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All minors must keep their undergarments on for the entire duration of the session and clients of minor age will be matched with the same-sex therapist. If a parent/guardian or minor client wishes to have a massage therapist of the opposite sex, the parent/guardian will be required to acknowledge permission on the minor intake form.
How much should I tip?
Many clients are unsure if and/or how much they should tip their massage therapist. We recommend you think of your massage therapist as you would a waiter in a restaurant. Our studios’ therapists love what they do and your tip may reflect your appreciation for their service. We recommend tipping percentages be based on the full price of a regular massage, rather than the discounted price.
Must I be completely undressed?
You should undress to your desired level of comfort. About half of our clients prefer to be completely undressed, while the other half prefers to keep their undergarments on. This is completely up to you. You will undress and dress in the privacy of your massage room and will be securely covered by a blanket and a sheet during your massage session.
What is a Master Therapist?
A Master Massage Therapist has completed the Professional, Elite, and Master level training or other additional education and has a minimum of 2 years of employment with Elements Massage studio. These massage therapists demonstrate the highest level of mastery of hands-on massage and well-being skills, and continue to maintain high performance standards across all client satisfaction metrics.
How often should I receive a massage?
For those who use massage as preventative care or to manage daily stress, one massage a month is common. Weekly sessions may be desirable if you are receiving massage for injury relief or to relieve chronic tightness that is interfering with your daily life. There are many people who incorporate massage therapy at least twice a month for optimal therapeutic relief.
Making an Appointment with a Gift Card
If redeeming a gift card for a service, a valid credit card must be provided to book a session. If you're booking your appointment by phone, please let us know that you'll be using a gift card as payment. At the end of the service, please present the gift card for final payment.
What is an Elite Therapist?
An Elite Massage Therapist has completed at least a one year tenure with an Elements Massage studio and consistently demonstrates mastery of The Elements Way. To reach this level, they have successfully completed both the Professional and advanced Elite Massage Therapist training, continuously have performed various session enhancements for individual client needs, and are consistently achieving high client satisfaction metrics.
Can I bring my children into the studio?
Studios strive to maintain a comforting and calm environment for clients and staff, so as a courtesy, it is asked that you do not bring in infants or toddlers in. Children may not at any time be left unattended and unsupervised in the lobby and are not allowed to accompany you into massage rooms.
What does a massage therapist’s license or certification mean?
A license means that a massage therapist has met the requirements and paid the fee to legally practice massage in your city, county and/or state. To obtain a license, a massage therapist will usually have to complete a minimum number of training hours at an accredited or accepted school or training center and will have to undergo a full background check prior to receiving that license. Each state has specific licensing and/or certification requirements for massage therapists.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly covered or draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. No areas will be exposed without your consent. You should always let your therapist know if you are uncomfortable for any reason during your massage session.
What is included in the session time?
A session consists of massage, time for you to dress and undress and time to communicate with the therapist to make your massage truly customized. Each time you visit an Elements Massage™ studio you will go through our service path called The Elements Way®. This is done to ensure each and every massage session you receive from us meets or exceeds your expectations.
What is your cancellation / reschedule policy?
To respect the livelihood of our therapists, Elements requires a minimum of 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Please understand that your therapist's time has been reserved especially for you, and other clients have been turned away.
Without 24-hour notice, a $60/$90/$120 late cancel fee will be charged for members and $90/$120/$150 for non-members (for a 1 hour, 90 min and 2 hour session respectively). If you are a member or package holder, you may choose to use a session on account instead of paying the cancellation fee. If you are redeeming a gift card and fail to cancel or reschedule, your gift card may be redeemed instead of paying the cancellation fee.
Please give us a call at 408-540-7225 so we may best serve your needs.
Will a massage alleviate my pain/soreness?
A massage can help alleviate pain and soreness — but the results depend on why you're sore and what type of massage you receive.
Massage often helps with:
- Muscle soreness from workouts (massage can reduce tension + improve circulation)
- Stress-related tightness (massage relaxes the nervous system)
- Trigger points/knots
- Limited mobility or stiffness
- Chronic tension in areas like the neck, back, shoulders
Many people feel:
- Immediate relief
- Better range of motion
- Less tension and improved relaxation
⏳ Sometimes relief builds over time
If your issue is chronic or postural (like tech-neck or desk-shoulder), you might need a few sessions + stretching/self-care to see sustained improvement.
🚫 When massage may not fully fix it
- Acute inflammation or injury (e.g., sprain, strain — you may need rest/ice first)
- Nerve-related pain (sciatica, numbness)
- Severe pain without clear cause (medical evaluation needed)
- Fibromyalgia flare-ups (gentle massage recommended — deep pressure may worsen pain)
💡 Tips to get the best results
- Tell your therapist exactly where and how it hurts
- Ask for the right pressure — not “as deep as possible”
- Drink water afterward (helps with inflammation)
- Light stretching + movement later in the day keeps benefits longer
Similar to athletic training, the benefits of massage are sustained and cumulative over time with repeated "workouts", or massage therapy sessions.
I have a Spafinder Gift Card, what can I use it for?
SpaFinder Gift Card Policy
We’re happy to accept SpaFinder gift cards at our studio. Please review the following guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:
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We only accept SpaFinder Multi-Use Cards. Legacy or single-use cards cannot be redeemed
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One (1) SpaFinder gift card may be redeemed per visit.
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SpaFinder gift cards can be applied only toward our full walk-in session rates.
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Not valid toward gratuity, retail product purchases or other gift cards — service value only.
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Spafinder gift cards cannot be combined with any discounts, special offers, promotions, package rates, or member pricing (including member sessions).
If you have any questions about using a SpaFinder gift card, our team is happy to assist. We look forward to seeing you!
When should I NOT get a massage?
The following conditions are contraindicated for massage. If you experience any of these 1-2 days prior to your massage appointment, please call us as soon as possible to reschedule:
- fever
- contagious illness, including cold or flu, even if mild
- under the influence of drugs or alcohol, including prescription pain medication
- recent surgery or acute injury (doctor's signed consent required)
- neuritis or any condition that impairs perception of pressure
- skin disease
We may require your doctor's signed consent to provide massage if you have certain medical conditions including but not limited to:
- high-risk pregnancy
- diabetes
- cancer
- epilepsy
- cardiovascular or heart-related problems
Is Dermaplaning right for me?
DERMAPLANING
Frequently Asked Questions
Smooth. Brighten. Refresh. Dermaplaning is a manual, non-chemical exfoliation enhancement performed by a licensed Esthetician and added to your facial.
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+$40 ENHANCEMENT Added to a facial |
LICENSED Performs the service |
MANUAL No chemical exfoliant used |
What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a manual, non-chemical exfoliation service. A licensed Esthetician uses a small sterile blade to gently remove dead surface skin cells and fine facial hair (often called “peach fuzz”), helping the skin look smoother, brighter, and refreshed.
Is dermaplaning a stand-alone service?
No. At Elements Massage, Dermaplaning is a +$40 enhancement added to a facial.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
Benefits may include smoother, softer-feeling skin; removal of fine facial hair; a brighter, refreshed appearance; smoother makeup application; and improved application or absorption of skincare products. Many clients experience little to no downtime.
Who performs dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is performed by a licensed Esthetician. Your Esthetician will review your skin and determine whether the enhancement is appropriate for you.
Is Dermaplaning right for everyone?
Not always. Dermaplaning may not be recommended if you have active or inflamed acne, sunburned or significantly irritated skin, open cuts or broken skin, an active rash or infection, a cold sore in the treatment area, or an active eczema, dermatitis, rosacea flare or if you have a personal history with keloids. Your Esthetician will evaluate your skin before proceeding.
Can I receive dermaplaning if I have darker skin?
Yes, darker skin tone alone is not a reason to exclude someone from dermaplaning. However, if your skin tends to develop dark marks after acne, irritation, cuts, burns, or cosmetic treatments, please let your Esthetician know. A history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) may require additional screening and a more conservative approach.
Skin Safety, Preparation & Aftercare
A NOTE ABOUT PIGMENTATION
What if I have hyperpigmentation or melasma?
Please tell your Esthetician before your service if you have a history of hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, or another pigmentation condition. Dermaplaning is not marketed as a treatment for melasma or hyperpigmentation, and irritation can potentially make pigmentation more noticeable. Having pigmentation does not automatically mean you cannot receive dermaplaning; your Esthetician will assess your skin and make the appropriate recommendation.
Can I have dermaplaning while pregnant?
Because dermaplaning is a non-chemical exfoliation service, it may be an option for many pregnant clients. Please let your Esthetician know if you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care so they can determine whether the service is appropriate for you.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Avoid physical or chemical exfoliation for 3-5 days before your service. Avoid excessive sun exposure and do not book with a sunburn. Avoid waxing the treatment area right before your appointment. Tell your Esthetician about retinol, prescription retinoids, acne medications, recent chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling. Do not stop prescription skincare unless directed by your prescribing healthcare provider. Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin when possible.
What should I do after dermaplaning?
Keep your skincare routine simple and gentle, moisturize as recommended, and avoid scrubbing or exfoliating until your Esthetician says it is okay to restart. Protect your skin from sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Follow any personalized home-care recommendations from your Esthetician.
How is dermaplaning different from a chemical peel?
Both are exfoliating services, but they work differently. Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation that removes dead surface skin and fine facial hair. Chemical peels use exfoliating solutions to address skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Your Esthetician can recommend the best option based on your skin and goals.
How do I know if dermaplaning is right for me?
Talk with your licensed Esthetician about your skin, medications, recent treatments, and skincare goals. They can evaluate your skin and let you know whether Dermaplaning is a good addition to your facial.
SKIN CONDITION NOTICE
If you have any skin condition, sensitivity, or concern, please inform your Esthetician before your service. This helps them determine the safest and most appropriate approach for your skin.
