Nuru (massage)

Nuru massage (Japanese: ぬる, nuru "slippery") is a form of erotic full-body massage that originated in Japan. It is characterized by the use of a water-soluble, slippery gel that allows extensive skin-to-skin contact. The giver glides their naked body over the receiver's body to create a sensual experience.[1]

Nuru gel is traditionally made from seaweeds high in fucoidan, such as Sphaerotrichia divaricata.[2] However, modern nuru gels are typically made with sodium polyacrylate.[3]

The Japanese word nuru (ぬる) means "slippery" or "slimy". The practice is reported to have emerged in the 1990s in Yokohama, associated with soapland establishments.[1] From there, it spread in Japan and later gained international attention.

Nuru massage is typically performed on a waterproof mattress or vinyl sheet. A gel, often derived from seaweed extracts, is applied to both participants to enable smooth body gliding. Unlike therapeutic massage, it is designed primarily as an erotic and sensual experience rather than for medical or anatomical benefit.[4]

In the early 2000s, Nuru massage began appearing outside Japan, particularly in the United States and Europe. Some commercial parlors and brothels feature dedicated "Nuru rooms".[5] For example, a legal Nevada brothel has advertised a Nuru-themed suite.[6]

Advocates emphasize the high degree of intimacy and sensuality. Critics point to its overlap with the sex industry and proximity to pornography.[5] Because it is commonly offered as part of erotic services, it has been subject to legal and cultural controversy.

There are no peer-reviewed studies directly evaluating Nuru massage. However, broader research on massage and intimacy provides indirect context:

• A couples' massage program improved mental well-being, reduced perceived stress, and enhanced relationship satisfaction.[7]
• A related paper described "Positive Massage" as a preventive intervention for couples, highlighting relaxation and relationship benefits.[8]
• A qualitative scoping review summarized evidence that massage therapy can support mental health and well-being in people with serious illness, though not in erotic contexts.[9]

Medical portals classify the HIV risk of Nuru-style massage without bodily fluid exchange as very low.[4]

Because Nuru massage is frequently associated with erotic or sexual services, it often falls under prostitution in various countries.[10]

• Krotenberg, Alain. Erotic Massage: The Complete Illustrated Guide. Carlton Books, 2000. ISBN 978-1-85868-950-7.
• Waugh, Thomas. The Romance of Transgression in Canada: Queering Sexualities, Nations, Cinemas. McGill-Queen's University Press, 2006.
• Boynton, Petra. The Research Companion for Health and Clinical Psychology. Routledge, 2004.

• VICE: "I Got a Nuru Massage at a Nevada Brothel" (2015)
• The Guardian: "Survival of the freakiest" (2015)
• Las Vegas Review-Journal: "Nevada sex resort tries new business plan" (2014)