The Kessa Glove and the Art of the Hammam Scrub

A glove, not a cream

The kessa (or kis) is a mitt of tightly woven, slightly abrasive fibre — traditionally goat hair or a coarse plant weave, today often a crepe-like viscose. It is worn on the hand and worked over damp, warmed skin. There is no grit, no microbeads: the texture of the weave itself does the exfoliating.

Why it works so well

• Even, mechanical exfoliation. Long directional strokes lift the whole outer layer of dead cells, not just high points, so skin tone looks more uniform.
• Circulation boost. The friction brings blood to the surface — skin looks briefly pink and feels warm.
• Better absorption. Oils and masks applied afterwards sink in instead of sitting on flaky skin.
• Helps with ingrown hairs and rough patches on arms, thighs and back.

How to use one at home

Shower or bathe first for 10 minutes so the skin is soft. Apply black soap or a little oil. Work the glove in firm, short strokes, limbs towards the heart, skipping the face, neck and any broken or sunburnt skin. Rinse, pat dry, moisturise. Once a week is the sweet spot — daily use with a kessa will leave skin sore and reactive.

Caring for the glove

Rinse it well, wring it and hang it to dry fully between uses; a damp glove in a washbag grows bacteria. Machine wash occasionally, replace every few months when the weave goes soft.