If you are exploring adult massage for the first time or you might have a few different sessions under your belt and you might of seen the options floated around of either Nuru Massage or Body to Body massage at first glance they seem quite similar, both are intimate, skin to skin nude experiences designed to relax the body and heighten the senses.

But in reality, they offer very different sensations and overall experiences.

So how do you choose the right session for you and the right technique?

This guide breaks down the key differences, benefits, and ideal scenarios for each—so you can decide with confidence.

What is a Body-to-Body Massage?

A body to body massage is exactly what it sounds like a massage uses not just their hands but entire naked body to deliver a relaxing and sensual experience.

Instead of traditional techniques, this style focuses on:

• Skin-to-skin contact
• Flowing, rhythmic movements
• Gradual build-up of relaxation and connection

The stunning massage therapist you choose may glide across your whole body using there body often using oils for a slippery experience but not on the same level as Nuru massage.

Key Features of Body to Body Massage:

• Warm oil-based massage experience
• Slow, controlled movements
• Focus on relaxation and sensual experiences
• More of a go with the flow massage experience

Best For:

• First-time clients
• People who want a relaxing, gentle introduction to sensual massage
• Those who enjoy a slower, more intimate pace

What is a Nuru Massage?

Our Nuru massage in Soho sessions take the whole experience a step further in terms of sensations and intensity.

Originating from Japan, Nuru massage involves the use of a specially formulated gel made from seaweed extract which creates an extremely slippery, almost frictionless surface both you and the masseuse are covered in the gel allowing for full-body gliding movements this creates a completely different physical experience compared to oil based or hands based massages such as body to body massage.

Key Features:

• Water-based, ultra-slippery Nuru gel
• Full body sliding and gliding
• Usually performed on a waterproof surface like an inflatable mattress 

Best For:

• Clients looking for a more intense, unique sensation
• Those who want something different from traditional massage
• Repeat clients ready to explore a deeper experience

The Core Differences

Understanding the difference between B2B and Nuru massage comes down to three main factors: texture, intensity and technique.

Sensation & Texture

This is the biggest difference.

• Body-to-body massage uses oil, which provides a warm, smooth glide—but still allows for some friction and control.
• Nuru massage uses gel, which is extremely slippery, creating a near weightless, sliding sensation.

Technique & Movement

Body to body massage focuses deeply on flow and connection with slower transitions and more contact all around your body while Nuru massage is more about continuous movement with the therapist gliding across your body in a way that feels almost like waves.

Intensity of Experience

While both massage types are adult in nature, Nuru tends to feel more intense and stimulating on a whole because of the unique physical sensation caused by the gel.

Body to body massage, on the other hand, leans more toward:

• Relaxation
• Comfort
• Emotional connection

Which One is Better for Beginners?

Body to body massage is better suited for new clients and beginners to adult massage because it feels more familiar just like a traditional massage, just more intimate. The pace is slower and easier to adjust to, and there is less sensory overload.

Nuru massage can feel very unusual at first, especially if you’re not used to full-body intense contact in that way, but if you are open-minded, then starting with Nuru massage is not the wrong choice its just a more intense experience.

Which One Feels More Relaxing?

If relaxation is the aim of the game, then a b2b massage wins as its less intense and the combination of warm oils, slow strokes and consistent pressure creates a calming, almost meditative effect, while nuru is more about sensory stimulation rather then getting you in a relaxed state.

Which One is More Unique?

Nuru massage is definitely the more unique due to the magic properties of the gel that is applied to you and the masseuse. Most people enjoy non-intimate oil-based massages quite regulary but very few have experienced a true Nuru massage with full body sliding, that weightless, frictionless sensation.

If you’re looking for something that feels completely different, Nuru Massage stands out.

Hygiene and Setup Differences

This is not something that many people think about, but it matters. Body to body massage is usually performed on a massage table or bed and is an easier, more traditional setup. While nuru, in theory, requires a waterproof surface, requires a shower before and after and uses a significant amount of gel.

This makes Nuru feel more like an immersive session, rather than a standard massage.

How to Choose the Right One

As yourself these simple questions to find out which one is the perfect fit for you:

What’s your goal?

Relaxation = Body to body Massage

Sexual satisfaction = Nuru Massage

How comfortable are you?

New or unsure? Body to body massage

Open and curious? Nuru Massage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a style. These include choosing based on hype, since nuru gets more attention due to its unique properties, but it might not be right for you. If you are nervous, then body to body massage is a much simpler choice, and you can always work up to a Nuru massage if needed.