Discover our selection of Japanese exfoliating towels, designed to bring the traditional Japanese bathing ritual into your daily routine. Made from materials including washi paper, an iconic Japanese fibre, they gently exfoliate the skin while stimulating microcirculation. Explore Bijo;’s carefully curated range of bath brushes and accessories to transform every shower or bath into a true moment of skincare and well-being.
The Japanese bathing ritual and exfoliation
In Japan, bathing is a true ritual of care and relaxation. Before stepping into a bathtub or an onsen, it is customary to wash the body thoroughly to fully enjoy the benefits of the bath. This is where the Japanese exfoliating towel plays an essential role.
Longer than a traditional washcloth, it makes it easy to cleanse the entire body using long, sweeping movements while gently exfoliating the skin. Some are made from washi paper, a traditional Japanese fibre renowned for its fineness, durability and naturally exfoliating texture. Breathable and pleasant against the skin, washi helps remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin.
Used with soap or a body wash, an exfoliating towel leaves the skin feeling softer and smoother, perfectly prepared for moisturising care. This simple gesture reflects the Japanese approach to beauty, where consistency, gentleness and respect for the skin take precedence over overly intensive exfoliation.
How to use an exfoliating towel
An exfoliating towel should be used on damp skin, in the shower or bath. Start by wetting the towel, then apply your soap or body wash directly to create a light lather.
Next, glide the towel over your body using long, even strokes, gradually working upwards from your feet towards your heart. This technique naturally incorporates a body massage while promoting a pleasant feeling of lightness. You can focus a little more on areas where the skin is thicker, such as the elbows, knees and heels, without applying excessive pressure.
Using an exfoliating towel once or twice a week is generally enough to keep the skin feeling soft and comfortable. After exfoliating, apply a body lotion or oil to nourish the skin.
After each use, rinse the towel thoroughly, gently squeeze out excess water and leave it to air-dry. Proper care helps preserve the fibres over time, particularly when using a towel made from washi paper.
Exfoliating towel, washcloth or brush: which should you choose?
Each accessory serves a different purpose. The Japanese exfoliating towel is ideal for cleansing the entire body with ease and reaching the back thanks to its elongated design. Models made from washi paper provide gentle exfoliation suitable for regular use.
An exfoliating washcloth is better suited to specific areas, allowing for more targeted application. Exfoliating brushes, on the other hand, provide a more invigorating massage and are particularly popular for the legs, arms and areas where the skin is thicker.
To complete your Japanese bathing ritual, explore our selection of body exfoliators, soaps and body washes, as well as our article on the art of Japanese bathing, which explores the practices and traditions behind this skincare routine.
