Exfoliating Korean Style: Why You NEED The Korean Italy Towel

After years of living in Korea, more than 15 in fact, I can say without a doubt one of the biggest lessons I have learned while living here is skincare and exfoliation is a major part of the Korean skincare regime and should be apart of everyone’s skincare regime. I didn’t know adults could have baby soft skin until I moved to Korea and was shown the err of my showering ways. Get ready to find out how to amp up your shower routine and why you really really need to.

Meet the Korean exfoliating towel, or the Korean Italy towel. Step into any Korean jjimjilbang or spa or just in to most Korean household bathrooms and you’ll probably spot a vibrantly colored hand towel of sorts. This is the Italy towel. But why is it called Italy towel, and more importantly, does it really work its magic?

Get ready to learn about the skincare gem I can no longer live without, exploring its benefits, how and when to use it, and so much more. 

• What is the Korean exfoliating towel called?
• Why is the Korean exfoliating towel called an Italy towel?
• Do Korean exfoliating towels work?
• What are the benefits of Korean exfoliating mitts?
• How often should you use a Korean exfoliating towel?
• What do Korean spas use to exfoliate?
• Can you wash exfoliating towels?
• Are there different types of exfoliating towels in Korea, or is the Italy towel the most common one?
• Can the Italy towel be used on sensitive skin, or is it best suited for tougher skin types?
• Do I need any special products or solutions when using the Italy towel, or is water sufficient for exfoliation?
• Can men use the Italy towel, or is it primarily for women?

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What is the Korean exfoliating towel called?

The Korean exfoliating towel, commonly known as the Italy towel, is a unique and effective skincare tool. It’s often referred to as “seshin towel” (세신타올) in Korean, which translates to “dead skin cell removal towel” or my husband refers to it as the “ddae towel” (때타올), which refers to the dead skin that is removed when using the towel. This should give you a clue about its primary purpose!

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Why is the Korean exfoliating towel called an Italy towel?

Now, the intriguing part: why is it called Italy towel? The name is a bit of a linguistic mystery, but it’s thought to have originated from a time when these towels were sold in Korean markets, often in bags labeled “Italy.”

Perhaps it was meant to imply that this beauty secret was imported from Italy. However, don’t be fooled – Italy towels are purely a Korean invention.

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Do Korean exfoliating towels work?

Absolutely! These little wonders are no gimmick. The Italy towel is designed to exfoliate your skin like no other. Its unique texture is abrasive enough to remove dead skin cells, but gentle enough not to harm your healthy skin.

That’s not to say that the exfoliation process is gentle though. Don’t get me wrong. You will have red skin after use. But don’t worry, that subsides quickly.

Not to get gross, but, it’s like magic; after using it, your skin feels incredibly soft, smooth, and rejuvenated. You will literally see the dead skin when you use the Italy towel… as shown above.

I still remember my very first scrub like it was yesterday. My parents-in-law owned saunas before they retired and I was always a bit nervous to go in and get nude with family members, but once talked into it… well now they can’t keep me out. My favorite part is the scrub because it’s sooooo good.

Also, you can and should do it at home! Even if you’re not in Korea, or maybe before you come to Korea, get an Italy towel and give it a go yourself. This skincare gem is actually super wallet-friendly and an all-natural solution for glowing skin. Not all Korean skincare goods will break the bank.

A lot of tourists head to Seoul and ask where to get a facial because they know Korean beauty and skincare is amazing. And though I know heading to a Korean bath house may be a bit daunting at first, getting nude with a bunch of strangers may not be everyone’s jam, I highly recommend at least one trip. You can learn and feel how Koreans get down and clean on top of shopping for skincare products and getting facials. It’ll be worth it! Trust me.

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What are the benefits of Korean exfoliating mitts?

Korean exfoliating mitts, like the Italy towel, come with a host of benefits. First and foremost, they help in removing dead skin cells, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. I always thought I had dry skin before I started using the Italy towel. Now I know I just wasn’t exfoliating.

Regular use can also help reduce ingrown hairs, making it a godsend for anyone who shaves or waxes. Not to mention, exfoliating increases blood circulation, giving your skin a radiant and healthy glow. It can even help with preventing and minimizing the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite.

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How often should you use a Korean exfoliating towel?

The frequency of use depends on your skin type and personal preferences. I tend to do it every other week myself but that can change seasonally. Generally, it’s recommended to exfoliate with an Italy towel once or twice a week.

However, be mindful not to overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin. Remember to always follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Once you feel how soft your skin can be though, you’ll definitely want to keep up the routine. I can definitely tell when my skin is ready for a good scrub now too and I’m sure yours will let you know as well.

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What do Korean spas use to exfoliate?

If you’ve ever been to a Korean spa, you’ve likely experienced the magic of their professional exfoliation services. While the tools and techniques used can vary, Italy towels and exfoliating mitts are commonly employed. It’s not a hidden secret. Everyone can and should use them.

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Can you wash exfoliating towels?

Absolutely! After using your Italy towel, rinse it thoroughly with warm water, then hang it up to dry. Regular washing helps keep it clean and ready for your next exfoliating session. Just avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can reduce the towel’s effectiveness.

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Are there different types of exfoliating towels in Korea, or is the Italy towel the most common one?

Yes, there are various types of exfoliating towels available in Korea. The Italy towel is one of the most popular, but you can also find other options with different textures and materials for exfoliation.

Some people prefer different towels for specific skin needs. My mother-in-law lives by the Italy towel though and brings them to me and tucks them away in bags and gifts. That’s absolutely my go-to.

On top of that, you’ll notice that there are different colors. The color of the Italy towel represents the strength, with pink, the softest, up to blue, the most coarse. Green is in the middle and is the most common type used.

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Can the Italy towel be used on sensitive skin, or is it best suited for tougher skin types?

The Italy towel can be used on sensitive skin, but with caution. It’s essential to be gentle during exfoliation if you have sensitive skin. You might want to opt for a milder exfoliation towel or reduce the frequency of use to prevent irritation.

If you’re getting exfoliated in a Korean bath house, the women will usually ask about the pressure and scrub. They’re certainly not aiming to hurt or punish you for not exfoliating, though it might feel like that. Be vocal if it’s too rough or you have sensitive skin.

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Do I need any special products or solutions when using the Italy towel, or is water sufficient for exfoliation?

Water is typically sufficient for using the Italy towel. Actually, Koreans will tell you NOT to put anything else on your skin prior to exfoliating. You should put moisturizers and lotions and even use body wash after you’ve scrubbed.

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Can men use the Italy towel, or is it primarily for women?

The Italy towel is suitable for both men and women. Anyone looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin can benefit from its exfoliating properties. It’s a unisex skincare tool widely used in South Korea.

If you’re headed to a Korean bath house, both men and women can get scrubbed. In my house, my husband and I scrub each other because you gotta get that back good and scrubbed. If your skin is feeling dry, ashy, or tight, it’s time to scrub whether you’re a woman or a man. 

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The Italy towel is one of the best-kept secrets of Korean skincare. It may not have anything to do with Italy, but its ability to reveal radiant, soft, and healthy skin is something you’ll definitely want to explore. While everyone is out there shopping for all of the hot Korean beauty goods, I’m telling you to focus on the basics first. It’s worth it.

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