What is a Turkish Hammam?
Steam, a body scrub and soft foam: what happens, what to wear and how to get ready.
A Turkish Hammam is a warm steam bath with a full-body scrub and a wash. It comes from old bathhouses in Turkey. You leave feeling very clean and very relaxed.
In short
- It takes 90 minutes to two hours.
- You don't need to bring anything.
- Your skin will feel much softer after.
What happens, step by step
Steam. You relax in warm steam. It opens your skin and loosens tight muscles.
Scrub. The therapist scrubs your whole body with a rough glove called a Kessa glove. It takes off dead skin.
Wash. Soft soap foam cleans your skin and leaves it smooth.
Massage. It ends with a relaxing oil massage.
How to get ready
- Drink water before and after. The steam makes you sweat.
- Don't eat a big meal just before.
- Don't shave or wax on the same day. The scrub can sting fresh skin.
- If your skin is sensitive, tell the therapist. They will scrub gently.
What to wear
Nothing special. We give you disposable undergarments, and you change in a private room. Every guest gets fresh linen.
If you are pregnant or have a heart problem or high blood pressure, ask your doctor before using steam. Want to compare? Read Hammam or Jacuzzi: which one to choose?
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Hammam?
90 minutes to two hours.
Does the scrub hurt?
No. It feels firm and fresh. Ask for a gentle scrub if your skin is sensitive.
What should I bring?
Nothing. We give you everything you need.
How often can I have a Hammam?
Once every few weeks is a good idea.
