Thai Massage vs Oil Massage: A Complete Comparison
Choosing between Thai massage and oil massage comes down to one question: do you want deep stretching or smooth relaxation?
Both styles deliver results. They just get there differently.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Thai Massage | Lotion Massage |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Loose clothes provided | Undressed, towel covered |
| Technique | Stretching, pressure points, yoga-like poses | Long gliding strokes with lotion |
| Pressure | Firm to deep | Light to medium |
| Best for | Flexibility, energy, muscle tension | Relaxation, stress relief, skin care |
| Oil/Lotion | None | Premium lotion |
| Movement | Active (you move with therapist) | Passive (you stay still) |
What is Thai Massage?
Thai massage is a 2,500-year-old practice from Thailand. Your therapist uses hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure along energy lines. They guide your body through stretches similar to yoga poses.
You wear loose, comfortable clothes we provide. No oils or lotions are used.
Thai Massage Technique
Your therapist works systematically through your body:
- Compression - Rhythmic pressing along muscles
- Acupressure - Targeted pressure on specific points
- Stretching - Assisted yoga-like movements
- Joint mobilization - Gentle rotation of joints
The session flows between these techniques. One moment you're being stretched, the next your therapist is walking on your back.
Thai Massage Benefits
Thai massage works best when you want to:
- Release tight muscles and knots
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Boost energy levels
- Reduce chronic pain
- Address specific tension areas
After a Thai massage, people often feel energized rather than sleepy. The stretching and pressure work together to wake up your body.
Best Suited For
Choose Thai massage if you:
- Sit at a desk all day
- Feel stiff or inflexible
- Want an active massage experience
- Prefer staying clothed
- Need relief from specific muscle problems
What is Lotion Massage?
Lotion massage uses smooth, flowing strokes with premium lotion. This style evolved from Swedish massage, focusing on relaxation and circulation.
You undress to your comfort level and lie under a towel. Your therapist uncovers only the area being worked on.
Lotion Massage Technique
The strokes are long and continuous:
- Effleurage - Long, gliding strokes
- Petrissage - Kneading and rolling
- Friction - Circular pressure
- Tapotement - Light tapping or percussion
The lotion reduces friction, letting hands glide smoothly over skin. This creates a different sensation than dry Thai massage.
Lotion Massage Benefits
Lotion massage works best when you want to:
- Deeply relax and destress
- Improve blood circulation
- Soften and moisturize skin
- Calm your nervous system
- Enjoy a pampering experience
After a lotion massage, you'll feel calm and possibly sleepy. It's ideal before a restful evening.
Best Suited For
Choose lotion massage if you:
- Carry stress and tension
- Want pure relaxation
- Enjoy the feeling of lotion on skin
- Prefer a gentler touch
- Plan to rest afterward
Which Massage Should You Choose?
Your body knows what it needs. Here's a simple guide:
Choose Thai Massage when:
- Your body feels stiff
- You've been sedentary
- You want to feel energized after
- You have specific pain points
- You prefer staying clothed
Choose Lotion Massage when:
- Your mind won't stop racing
- You need to unwind
- You want smooth, flowing touch
- Your skin needs attention
- You plan to sleep afterward
Still unsure? Our therapists can help you decide when you book.
Pricing at Monkey Massage
In-Shop Rates
Thai Massage
- 60 minutes: ฿1,700
- 90 minutes: ฿2,500
- 120 minutes: ฿3,800
Lotion Massage
- 60 minutes: ฿1,800
- 90 minutes: ฿2,600
- 120 minutes: ฿3,900
Outcall Rates (Hotel Room Service)
Add ฿500 to any service for delivery to your hotel room in Sukhumvit.
Thai Massage (Outcall)
- 60 minutes: ฿2,200
- 90 minutes: ฿3,000
- 120 minutes: ฿4,300
Lotion Massage (Outcall)
- 60 minutes: ฿2,300
- 90 minutes: ฿3,100
- 120 minutes: ฿4,400
Frequently Asked Questions
Which massage is better for back pain?
Thai massage targets specific problem areas with deep pressure and stretching. For chronic back pain, Thai massage often delivers better results than lotion massage.
Can I switch between styles during my session?
We recommend sticking with one style per session. Each technique builds on itself, and switching interrupts the flow. Book a longer session if you want to experience both.
Is Thai massage painful?
Good Thai massage should not hurt. You'll feel deep pressure and stretches, but pain means something is wrong. Tell your therapist immediately if any movement causes pain.
Which massage is better for first-timers?
Lotion massage is more familiar to most people. If you've never had a professional massage, start with lotion. Try Thai massage on your next visit once you know what to expect.
Book Your Massage
Ready to experience the difference? Contact us to book your session.
Reach us via:
- Telegram
- Line
We're open daily from 12pm to 2am.
Location: Monkey Massage Bangkok 645 Sukhumvit Alley 22 Khwaeng Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei Bangkok 10110
