At the heart of Turkish hammam culture are two simple but effective steps: kese and foam. This centuries-old ritual is known in today's spa world as the peeling and foam treatment, and it offers a sense of cleansing that modern skincare rarely matches. In this article we explain how the treatment unfolds and what it does for your skin.
Preparation: Heat and Steam
For the kese to work, the skin first needs to soften. In the marble hammam at O'SPA Sky, aromatic steam and the warm navel stone (göbek taşı) provide this preparation. A few minutes of warming help open the pores and ready the outer layer of skin for exfoliation.
Kese: Shedding Dead Skin Cells
The kese is a textured mitt woven from silk or goat hair. The therapist moves it across the skin in a set direction with controlled pressure. Dead skin cells visibly roll away, which surprises many guests. Afterwards the skin feels smoother, more radiant and more responsive to touch.
Foam: Cloud-Like Relaxation
Next, foam made with natural soap is inflated using a special cloth bag and spread over the body like a cloud. Gentle massage movements under the foam relax the muscles and soothe the skin after exfoliation. Rinsing with warm water completes the ritual.
What Are the Benefits?
- Smoother, brighter-looking skin free of dead cells
- Better absorption of the moisturisers applied afterwards
- A deep sense of relaxation from heat and steam
- A feeling of lightness as circulation seems to quicken
- Feeling mentally "cleansed" and renewed
How Often?
It depends on skin type, but once every two to four weeks is generally enough. More frequent exfoliation can make the skin sensitive. Spacing sessions a little further apart for dry or sensitive skin, and every three weeks for oily skin, is a good start.
Who Should Be Careful?
If you have sunburn, open wounds, active skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, or have recently had laser or chemical peels, postpone the kese. During pregnancy and with conditions such as high blood pressure or heart problems, high heat should be avoided; consult your doctor first. Always tell your therapist about any sensitivities beforehand.
Want to Combine It With a Massage?
For those who want to complete the cleansing effect of peeling and foam with the deep relaxation of a massage, the Massage + Peeling and Foam Treatment package offers a complete 80-minute ritual: a 50-minute massage plus 30 minutes of kese and foam. For the treatment on its own, see Peeling and Foam Treatment.
Afterwards
- Drink plenty of water and nourish your skin with a good moisturiser.
- Avoid strong sun, pool chlorine and perfumed products on the same day.
- Avoid shaving or waxing for the first 24 hours after the kese.
If you're curious about the history of hammam culture, read Hammam Culture in Istanbul. Browse our services or contact us to book.
