Traditional Moroccan hammam Steps
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A traditional Moroccan hammam is a centuries-old cleansing ritual that deeply exfoliates, purifies, and nourishes the skin. It is typically done once a week in Morocco and follows a specific sequence.
Traditional Moroccan Hammam Steps
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Prepare the skin
- Take a hot shower or sit in a steam room for 10–15 minutes.
- The heat opens the pores and softens dead skin.
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Apply Moroccan Black Soap (Savon Beldi)
- Massage black soap over the entire body.
- Leave it on for 5–10 minutes to soften the skin before exfoliation.
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Exfoliate with a Kessa Glove
- Rinse off the black soap Completely from your skin.
- Using a damp kessa glove, Exfoliate your skin using back forth or circular motions.
- Dead skin will begin to roll off, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath.
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Rinse Thoroughly
- Wash away all dead skin and soap with warm water.
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Apply Rhassoul (Ghassoul) Clay or Tbrima
- Mix the clay or Tbrima with water or rose water into a smooth paste.
- Apply to the body.
- Leave on for 5–10 minutes, then rinse well.
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Wash Hair
- Shampoo and condition as usual.
- Many Moroccans also use natural hair masks during this step.
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Moisturize
- While the skin is still slightly damp, massage in pure argan oil or a rich body oil to lock in moisture.
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Relax
- Finish by resting, drinking water or mint tea, and allowing your body to cool down naturally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid during Moroccan Hammam
- ❌ Exfoliating before steaming.
- ❌ Exfoliating before rinsing the soap completely.
- ❌ Using the kessa glove on dry skin.
- ❌ Exfoliating sunburned, irritated, or broken skin.
- ❌ Using strong chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, or retinol) on the same day.
- ❌ Skipping moisturizer afterward.
Traditional Moroccan Secret
Many Moroccan women finish the hammam by applying pure argan oil or a blend of argan oil with a few drops of orange blossom or rose water for soft, radiant skin. They also dedicate time to relaxing after the ritual with a glass of mint tea, making the hammam as much about wellness as skincare.
A proper Moroccan hammam should leave your skin feeling incredibly smooth, hydrated, and glowing—not sore or overly red.
Traditional Moroccan Hammam Products
- Moroccan Black Soap (Savon Beldi)
- Kessa Exfoliating Glove
- Rhassoul (Ghassoul) Clay or Tbrima
- Rose Water or Orange Blossom Water
- Pure Argan Oil
1 full Moroccan hammam per week for deep exfoliation.



