Your first hammam can feel like a beautiful mystery: steam, black soap, a textured mitt and warm water poured from a bowl. At Liya Pure Beauty & Spa in Kensington, we keep the ritual simple, unhurried and comfortable. Here is exactly what to expect.

What is a hammam?

A hammam is a traditional steam bath, loved across Morocco, Turkey and the wider Middle East. Unlike a dry sauna, the room is warm and humid. The heat softens the skin and relaxes the muscles, while a gentle exfoliation removes dead skin and leaves the body smooth.

At Liya, our spa hammam combines steam, authentic Moroccan black soap, a traditional kessa scrub and a soothing foam wash. It is a cleansing ritual, but it is also a chance to slow down.

Before you arrive

  • Come with clean skin. Avoid heavy lotions, oils or fake tan on the day.
  • Eat lightly. A small snack an hour or two before is ideal; avoid a heavy meal.
  • Hydrate. Drink water before and after your session.
  • Tell us about your health. Pregnancy, recent surgery, skin conditions, high blood pressure or medication should be shared when you book or on arrival.

Bring only what you need. We provide towels and the products used during your hammam. If you wear contact lenses, you may prefer to remove them before the steam.

Step by step: your first hammam

1. Arrival and consultation

You will be welcomed and shown where to change. A therapist will ask a few questions about your skin, preferences and any sensitivities. This is your moment to ask for a gentler scrub or more time to relax.

2. Time in the steam

You enter the warm, humid room and let your body adjust. The steam opens the pores and helps you unwind. Sit or lie down, breathe slowly and let us know if the heat feels too much. There is no need to push through discomfort.

3. Black soap and kessa scrub

Traditional black soap is applied to soften the skin. Then comes the kessa mitt: firm, rhythmic strokes that lift away dead skin. It is more stimulating than a body lotion, but it should never be painful. Your therapist will adjust the pressure, and you can ask to skip any sensitive areas.

4. Rinse and foam wash

Warm water rinses away the soap and exfoliated skin. A soft foam wash follows, leaving you clean and refreshed without stripping the skin.

5. Rest and rehydrate

Afterwards, you will have time to cool down, dry off and drink water. Many guests feel sleepy, light and very relaxed. Take your time getting up, especially if you felt warm during the session.

Tip: book your first hammam when you have nowhere to rush afterwards. The best part is the quiet hour that follows.

What does it feel like?

The heat is soothing rather than overpowering. The scrub is brisk, and your skin will feel softer immediately. Some redness afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly. If your skin is sensitive, ask for a lighter exfoliation.

A session usually lasts around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the package you choose. You will be given disposable underwear, and you can keep swimwear on if you prefer.

Who should avoid a hammam?

A hammam is not suitable for everyone. Please seek medical advice first if you are pregnant, have uncontrolled high blood pressure, a heart condition, a fever, an active skin infection, or have recently had surgery. We may also recommend a different treatment if your skin is irritated or sunburnt.

After your hammam

Keep the aftercare simple: rinse with lukewarm water, apply a gentle moisturiser, and avoid strong acids, retinol or another scrub for at least 24 hours. Drink water and let your skin rest. If you would like help choosing a facial to follow your hammam, our facial treatments can be tailored to your skin.

Ready to try it?

Our team in Kensington will guide you through every step. View our spa pricing or contact us to book your first hammam. Arrive curious, leave soft, calm and glowing.