Traditional Moroccan Hammam: Etiquette & What to Expect

The Art of Relaxation and Cleansing

The hammam is an important part of Moroccan social life and wellness. It is a steam room cleansing ritual that has been practiced for hundreds of years. Visiting a hammam is a great way to relax after walking through the souks. Here is everything you need to know about your first hammam visit.

Step 1: Acclimatizing in the Steam Room

You start by relaxing in a hot, steamy room. The heat opens your pores and prepares your skin for cleansing. You will lie down on warm marble or tiles, letting your muscles relax completely.

Step 2: The Black Soap (Savon Noir) Application

Next, an attendant or you will apply "savon noir", a dark, paste-like soap made from olive oil and crushed olives. It sits on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes to soften dead skin cells.

Step 3: Vigorous Exfoliation with the Kessa Glove

This is the core of the hammam. Using a sand-paper-like glove called a "kessa", the attendant will firmly scrub your body. You will see rolls of dead skin come off. It sounds intense, but it leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and clean.

Hammam Etiquette Tips

• Underwear is required: Keep your swim briefs or bikini bottoms on.
• Drink plenty of water before and after to stay hydrated in the heat.
• Traditional public hammams are separated by gender, while private riad spas offer private couple rooms.