Spas and Hammams Offering Kese in Istanbul

Kese (exfoliating scrub) is a core treatment offered by almost every hammam and many spas in Istanbul. The venues listed in this guide range from historic hammams in Fatih and Üsküdar to modern facilities in Bahçelievler, Şişli, Beyoğlu, Pendik and Ataşehir.

On its own or as part of the ritual: Kese is mostly offered together with a foam massage, and the price generally covers both. Some venues also offer a kese-only option. Make clear which one you are getting when you make your appointment — this is the most common reason for price differences in Istanbul.

Is the hot room included? Warming up on the navel stone (the heated marble platform) for 15-20 minutes before the kese is essential for it to work. At some venues this time is included in the package, while at others use of the hammam is charged separately.

Choice of attendant: Kese is usually done by an attendant of the same sex as you; stating your preference when you make your appointment is perfectly normal.

We explain how often to have a kese, what to watch out for afterwards and which skin conditions it is not done on on our kese page.