Water, the beginning of everything 

Water is the origin of life and the fundamental principle of care and well-being in the hammam, heir to the tradition of the Arab bath and the culture of steam. The water ritual is the gateway to all the benefits the body receives, both inside and out.

How hot water acts on the skin 

Your skin, the largest organ in the body, responds differently to contact with water depending on its temperature. Starting with a warm shower boosts the skin’s vitality and prepares it to receive all the benefits of hot water and steam.

In every case, it is essential to consider each skin type and condition. More delicate skin types should be especially careful with changes in water temperature. The transition should be slow and gradual in order to obtain the maximum benefits, both for the skin and for the rest of the body.

1. Hot thermal baths are especially therapeutic for relaxing the muscular system and relieving tension. Immersion helps dilate the blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing muscle stiffness. A warm shower afterwards reinforces the relaxing effect on muscles and joints, helping to relieve pain, tension and cramps.
   
2. Immersion in hot water, and especially exposure to steam, triggers a natural self-purifying process in the skin. As blood circulation is activated, the epidermis receives more oxygen and nutrients. Through the opened pores, impurities are eliminated and cell health, collagen production and the skin’s repair process are supported. After a thermal steam session, the skin appears brighter and more radiant.
   
3. Steam enhances the elimination of excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells, the main causes of a dull and devitalised complexion. This is why it is the ideal prelude to continuing with an exfoliation process that renews and tones the skin.
   

Benefits of hot bathing for the body

For the skin and hormonal balance

Stress has a negative effect on the skin due to the release of cortisol, which in turn increases oil production, slows down cell renewal and accelerates premature ageing. Immersion in a hot thermal bath or steam bath reduces stress and cortisol levels. This hormonal regulation directly benefits the condition of the skin: a better-balanced hydrolipidic film, a more even and luminous tone, and greater elasticity.

For rest and skin regeneration

Many people who regularly enjoy hot baths and steam baths experience improved sleep and rest. The skin’s natural regeneration and repair process takes place mainly during sleep. Good rest also helps the skin make better use of cosmetics and their active ingredients.

Before the hot bath

Take a warm shower with a natural soap to remove traces of sweat, pollution, sunscreen, make-up, perfume and other residues. This leaves the skin clean, toned and ready for the next step.

After the hot bath or steam bath

The most important thing is to hydrate inside and out. To avoid thermal shock, it is best to drink one or several cups of green tea or a similar infusion, avoiding cold drinks. This is the ideal moment to apply a moisturising cream, nourishing oil or renewing mask, as the skin will absorb the active ingredients more effectively.

Adapt the duration according to your skin type

It is always important to take into account each skin type and condition in order to properly regulate the duration of the hot bath and steam bath. Oilier skin types or skin with mild acne may tolerate longer or more intense sessions, while dry skin will need shorter and more spaced-out sessions.  

For more sensitive or reactive skin, or skin with rosacea, hot water and steam baths are not recommended. In these cases, warm water is a better option, avoiding sudden changes in temperature.