The Korean Italy Towel – why and how to use it at home

The Korean Italy Towel, also known as the Korean exfoliating mitt or scrubbing mitt, is a unique and effective skincare tool used for exfoliation. It originated in South Korea and has become a popular part of the Korean beauty and skincare regimen. Despite the name “Italy Towel,” it has no direct connection to Italy; the origin of the name remains uncertain.

The history of the Korean Italy Towel dates back several decades. It is believed to have emerged in the public bathhouses, known as “jjimjilbangs,” which are an essential part of Korean culture. The jjimjilbangs are communal bathhouses where people gather to cleanse, relax, and socialize.

In the past, Koreans used natural fibers and materials like rough silk or viscose to exfoliate their skin during their bathhouse visits. However, the modern version of the Italy Towel, made from viscose rayon, became popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It is told that back then the material was imported from Italy, where the name possibly comes from.

The Korea Italy Towel is characterized by its small size, rough texture, and high exfoliating power. It is typically made of viscose, which is derived from plant fibers, making it an eco-friendly and biodegradable choice.

The Korean Italy Towel is used on wet skin after soaking in a bath or shower for a few minutes. The towel’s rough texture helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and impurities from the skin’s surface effectively. It is most commonly used on the body, but there are also gentler versions designed for facial exfoliation.

Using the Italy Towel can lead to several benefits for the skin, including improved circulation, enhanced skin texture and tone, and increased absorption of skincare products applied after exfoliation.

The Korea Italy Towel has become an integral part of the Korean beauty and skincare routine. It is not only used in bathhouses but also at home as a regular exfoliation tool. Due to its effectiveness, it has gained popularity internationally, with many beauty enthusiasts and skincare aficionados incorporating it into their regimens.

Beyond its exfoliating properties, the Korea Italy Towel also represents a cultural experience in Korean bathhouse traditions. Visiting a jjimjilbang, using the towel, and enjoying the social atmosphere have become cherished aspects of Korean culture and relaxation.

In conclusion, the Korean Italy Towel is a time-honored skincare tool with roots in Korean bathhouse culture. Its popularity and effectiveness have made it a staple in Korean skincare routines and have gained recognition worldwide as an exceptional exfoliating and rejuvenating tool.