Yes, if you were happy with your session. A tip is a thank-you, not a fee, and it is always your choice.

A therapist's hands pressing along a guest's back during a body massage — Every tip goes to the therapist who worked on you.

The short answer
Tipping is optional.
Etiquette guides suggest up to 20 percent of the service price.
At Serenity Zen, we recommend 20 percent or more, depending on how you feel after your session.
Every tip goes to your therapist.
Tip in cash or by card at the front desk.

How much to tip

Etiquette guides, including the Emily Post Institute, suggest up to 20 percent of the service price for a massage. At Serenity Zen, we recommend 20 percent or more, depending on how you feel after your session, and every tip goes to your therapist.

Base the tip on the full price of your service, including any enhancements you added, such as hot stones or cupping.

Balms, essential oils and other enhancement supplies set out on a massage table — Enhancements like hot stones or essential oils are part of the service price.

An easy way to do the math

Move the decimal point one place to the left. That is 10 percent.
For 20 percent, double it.
Round to an easy number. Nobody expects the math to be exact.

Is a tip required?

No. The American Massage Therapy Association says tips are appreciated but not required, and we agree. A tip is a thank-you, and leaving one is your choice.

If something about your session is not right, say so while it is happening. You can change the pressure at any time without explaining why. Your therapist would rather adjust than guess.

From Dr. Nick
A tip is one way to say thank you. The other is to tell your therapist what felt good. Both mean a lot to the people who do this work.

How to leave a tip

You can tip in cash or by card. When you pay at the front desk, tell them the amount, and it is added to your payment.

A massage table made up with a Serenity Zen sheet and face cradle — Tip in cash or by card at the front desk, after your session.

Common questions

Do I tip if I pay with a gift card?

If you would like to. A gift card covers the service but not the tip, so leave the tip in cash or by card.

How does tipping work for a couples massage?

Each of you tips on your own service. If one of you pays for both, one tip is split evenly between the two therapists.

Do I tip for a foot massage?

Yes, the same way as any other service. Base it on the price of the service you booked.

What if tipping is not the custom where I come from?

That is fine. Tipping is always optional, and nobody will ask you to explain.

Book your massage

Serenity Zen has studios in West Covina and Diamond Bar. Open daily, 10 AM to 9 PM.

Book West Covina Book Diamond Bar

Sources: American Massage Therapy Association, What to Expect at Your Massage Session. The Emily Post Institute, General Tipping Guide.