The image of billowing foam that comes to mind when you think of a hammam is actually a stage of the ritual in its own right, and it comes after the kese (exfoliating scrub).
Kese and foam are not the same thing
| Kese | Foam massage | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Removes dead skin | Softens the skin and relaxes you |
| How | Coarse-textured mitt | Foam squeezed out of a cloth bag |
| Feel | Friction | Slipperiness, light pressure |
| Order | First | Afterwards |
The kese cleanses, the foam soothes. That is why the softness of the foam feels so good on skin made sensitive by the kese.
How is the foam made?
Traditionally, the attendant soaks a cloth bag in olive oil soap, fills it with air and squeezes it to produce the foam. This foam is denser and longer-lasting than ordinary soap lather.
It is done on the navel stone (the heated marble platform), lying on your back or front. The foam is spread generously over the body, then a massage is given by pressing with the palms.
How long does it take?
10-20 minutes. Together with the kese, the total comes to 30-45 minutes. Including warming up and resting, a hammam visit usually takes 1.5-2 hours.
Massage or ritual?
Although it has "massage" in its name, a foam massage is not a classic massage. Do not expect deep work to release muscle tension — the aim is to relax after cleansing and to soften the skin.
If you have come to the hammam for muscle pain or tension, plan a separate massage session after the wet area. Most venues offer hammam + massage packages.
Frequently asked questions
Can foam get in your eyes? It can. It is soap-based, so it stings but is harmless — keep your eyes closed when foam comes near your face.
Is your hair washed? At most venues a hair wash after the foam is included; at some it is a separate service. Ask when booking.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin? The foam itself is gentle; the stage to be careful with is the kese that comes before it.
Where can you find it?
Venues offering foam massage are mostly traditional hammams and hotel spas with a hammam section.
This article was written by the Spa Deneyimi editors. Rankings and verification badges cannot be bought.
