The Moroccan Hammam isn't just a bath—it's a cherished ritual of deep cleansing, self-care, and rejuvenation. Rooted in centuries of tradition, this wellness practice is a weekly staple for Moroccan men and women alike. On average, the full ritual takes between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on how much time you spend on each step. Want to experience it at home? Here’s your complete guide to recreating the Hammam ritual in your own bathroom using natural ingredients straight from Morocco.

Elegant Moroccan-style bathroom with golden sink, arched mirror, and warm lighting

Step 1: Nourish Your Hair with Argan Oil

Begin your ritual by treating your hair with pure Moroccan argan oil, known for its rich content of vitamin E and essential fatty acids that strengthen and hydrate. Warm a few drops in your palms and apply from scalp to ends. Wrap your hair in a warm towel and let the oil penetrate for 30 minutes. This deeply nourishes and restores dry or damaged hair, leaving it softer, shinier, and more resilient.

Woman applying argan oil to her hair before a traditional Moroccan bath.

Step 2: Create a Steam Chamber

Heat is vital. The longer and warmer the environment, the better your pores will open and the easier it will be to exfoliate your skin effectively. Let the hot water run for several minutes and close the bathroom door to trap the steam—don’t rush this step. The more time you allow for the steam to build, the more your skin will soften and respond to the cleansing process. For a calming touch, add a few drops of eucalyptus or orange blossom essential oil to the water or a diffuser.

Step 3: Apply Moroccan Black Soap

Step into the steam and rinse your body. Then, apply Beldi soap—a natural olive-based black soap. Rich in antioxidants, this soap is the cornerstone of the Moroccan Hammam ritual. It works by softening the skin, loosening impurities, and breaking down dead skin cells, making it much easier to exfoliate effectively. Let it sit on your skin for 5–10 minutes to fully activate its purifying properties before moving on to exfoliation.

Step 4: Exfoliate with a Kessa Glove

Using a traditional Kessa glove, exfoliate in firm, circular strokes. You'll see dead skin roll away, leaving your body detoxified and refreshed. These gloves are widely available online, in Moroccan beauty shops, or in stores that carry natural skincare products. If you ever visit Morocco, the Kessa glove is a must-buy—authentic versions are easily found in local souks for around $2 to $3 USD. For facial use, opt for a gentler glove specifically designed for sensitive areas.

Traditional Moroccan hammam kit with Kessa gloves and black soap.

Step 5: Apply a Ghassoul Clay Mask

Mix Ghassoul clay with warm water or rose water into a smooth paste. Apply to your body and face, avoiding the eyes. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing. Ghassoul draws out impurities and deeply cleanses, thanks to its rich concentration of minerals like silica, magnesium, and calcium. It helps tighten pores, absorb excess oil, and improve skin texture, making it an essential step in the Hammam ritual for leaving your skin smooth, clarified, and naturally radiant.

Step 6: Tone with Rose or Orange Blossom Water

Spritz your face with rose water or orange blossom water after rinsing to tone, hydrate, and refresh your skin. This step is key because it helps restore your skin’s natural pH balance after cleansing, tightens pores, and provides a soothing, anti-inflammatory effect. Rich in antioxidants, these floral waters also add a gentle fragrance and a boost of hydration, leaving your skin calm, soft, and glowing.

Step 7: Moisturize with Argan Oil

To lock in moisture, massage pure argan oil into your damp skin. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet. This step leaves your skin radiant, nourished, and softly scented.

Step 8: Sip Moroccan Mint Tea and Unwind

After completing your Hammam ritual, take the time to relax and let the benefits sink in. Prepare a warm glass of traditional Moroccan mint tea—a soothing blend of green tea, fresh mint leaves, and just the right amount of sugar. This iconic beverage helps rehydrate your body, aids digestion, and calms the senses.

For the full experience, light a candle, dim the lights, and wrap yourself in a soft robe. Let the aromas, warmth, and silence embrace you. Don’t rush—this is your time to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. The Hammam isn’t just a physical cleanse, it’s a ritual of emotional reset and deep comfort. Make it count.

Woman relaxing after a bath, sitting by the window with a warm drink in hand

Bonus Steps (Optional)

  • Use Ghassoul on the scalp if your hair is oily for a natural cleanse.
  • Apply prickly pear seed oil to the face for anti-aging benefits.
  • Exfoliate hands and feet with a mix of sugar, olive oil, and lemon.

Moroccan Hammam Essentials Checklist

  • Argan oil
  • Moroccan black soap
  • Kessa glove
  • Ghassoul clay
  • Rose or orange blossom water
  • Essential oils (optional)

Recreating the Moroccan Hammam at home is more than a beauty routine—it’s a time-honored ritual that nurtures both body and mind. Give yourself the gift of stillness, self-love, and glowing skin the Moroccan way.

Discover more Moroccan traditions and wellness rituals on TripLooky