The traditional hammam routine: explained step by step
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The hammam has been a staple of skincare rituals in North African cultures for centuries. It's not just for cleansing the skin, but also for relaxing and consciously giving yourself time and attention.
In this blog, we'll take you through the traditional hammam routine and explain step by step how you can easily apply it at home.
This routine isn't about rushing or perfection, but about cleansing, softening and restoring the skin.
What is a hammam routine?
A hammam routine is a skincare ritual performed on warm, damp skin. Heat opens the pores, making it easier to remove dirt, excess sebum, and dead skin cells.
Traditionally the routine consists of four steps:
1. Prepare the skin with heat
2. Clean with black soap
3. Exfoliate with the Kessa glove
4. Nourish and purify with ghassoul
Together, these steps provide a deep yet gentle cleanse.
Step 1: Prepare the skin with heat
A hammam always begins with warmth. This can be done in a real hammam, but it's just as effective under a warm shower or bath.
Why this step is important:
• The pores open
• The skin becomes softer
• Cleansing and exfoliation work more effectively
Soak for 5–10 minutes under warm, running water. Relax, breathe calmly, and let your skin adjust to the warmth.
Step 2: Clean with black soap
Black soap is a gentle, natural cleanser based on olive oil and argan oil. It's used in hammams to loosen dirt and excess sebum without drying out the skin.
How to use black soap:
• Apply a thin layer to warm, wet skin
• Let this work for 1–3 minutes
• Do not rinse immediately
The soap does the prep work: it loosens dead skin cells, so exfoliation later is more effective and gentler.
On the product page of Black soap with argan oil you can read in detail how this cleansing product supports the skin.
Want to understand exactly what black soap does and why it contains argan oil? Then read: Black soap with argan oil: what does it do and what is it used for?
Step 3: Exfoliate with the Kessa glove
After the black soap has worked its magic, the skin is ready for exfoliation with the Kessa glove. This is a traditional scrub glove that mechanically removes dead skin cells.
How to exfoliate properly:
• Rinse off most of the black soap
• Use the kessa on wet skin
• Make slow, long movements
• Don't press too hard; the glove does the work
You'll notice that dead skin cells are visibly sloughing off. This is normal and a sign that your skin is being thoroughly but safely cleansed.
More information about correct use can be found on the Kessa glove product page.
If you want to understand why exfoliating makes such a difference to your skin, also read: The Kessa Glove: What It Is and Why Exfoliating Is So Important.
Step 4: Nourish and purify with ghassoul
After exfoliation, the skin is extra receptive to care. Ghassoul, a mineral-rich clay from the Atlas Mountains, is traditionally used to purify and balance the skin and hair.
How to use ghassoul:
• Mix ghassoul with warm water to form a smooth paste
• Apply to skin or hair
• Leave on for 5–10 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly
Ghassoul cleanses without irritation and leaves the skin feeling clean and soft.
On the Ghassoul product page you can read how to use it in different ways.
Curious why ghassoul is so gentle on skin and hair? Also read: What is ghassoul and why is it so gentle on skin and hair?
How often can you do a hammam routine?
A complete hammam routine is more intensive than a daily shower and is therefore intended as a weekly treatment.
• Normal to oily skin: once a week
• Sensitive skin: 1× every 10–14 days
• Rough or clogged skin: regularly, but with gentle pressure
Always listen to your skin and adjust the frequency to what feels comfortable for you.
The power of simplicity in care
What makes the hammam routine so special is its simplicity. With a few pure products and careful attention to your skin, you can achieve deep cleansing and nourishment.
Your skin feels afterwards:
• smoother
• cleaner
• more comfortable
• better prepared for further care, such as an oil or body treatment
It is not a quick action, but a moment for yourself.
Discover the products for the hammam routine
Want to experience this routine for yourself? Check out the products: black soap , kessa glove , and ghassoul and create your own personalized hammam experience.
