Planning your visit
Is a Turkish Bath Safe? Health, Heat and Who Should Skip It
A Turkish bath means heat, humidity, a firm scrub and a massage. For many people that is simply relaxing; for some it is not a good idea. This page sets out, plainly, when we say no and when your doctor should have the final word.
Updated
In short
In three situations we advise against the hamam: pregnancy, heart or circulation trouble, and difficulty coping with heat and humidity. With any medical condition, unusually high or low blood pressure, a skin problem, or a recent injury or operation, your doctor decides first; if they agree, let the hamam know before your session starts. Keep your last meal light, have no alcohol before you go, and mention any allergies to us ahead of the oil massage. We can't judge your health for you — this page only lists what the operator asks of every guest.
When we advise against it
These come straight from the operator's own guidance for every guest. If one of them applies to you, please choose another way to spend the day.
- Pregnancy
- Heart or circulatory conditions
- Sensitivity to heat or humidity
When to ask your doctor first
If your doctor is happy for you to go, tell the hamam about it before your session starts. You can also write it in the notes field when you book.
- Any medical condition
- High or low blood pressure
- A skin condition
- A recent injury or operation
What your body goes through
It helps to know what the programme involves before deciding: heat from the steam room and sauna, a firm scrub with the kese mitt, soap foam worked in by hand, and roughly 20 minutes of massage with aromatic oil. The kese is firm by nature — if you'd like it gentler, say so to your attendant. Each stage explained.
How to prepare
- Eat only a light meal beforehand.
- Drink no alcohol before the session.
- Tell us about any allergies before the oil massage — the notes field is the place.
- Bring water, swimwear and a change of underwear.
Children
The same care applies at any age. The massage parts are meant for adults, and the hamam decides what children take part in; give us their ages when you book. A Turkish bath with children.