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Every morning, I always found a small cup on my grandmother’s kitchen counter with a smooth mixture of brownish clay, milk, and turmeric. After the morning hustle and bustle subsided, she’d apply it to her face, wait for 10 minutes, and rinse it off.
It was a ritual she followed religiously, claiming it was the secret to her smooth and glowing skin.
I often wondered what the clay was, and it was only much later that I realized that it was Multani mitti.
Also called fuller’s earth or mud of Multan, this ingredient has been used by homemakers like my grandmother and mother as well as skin experts for decades.
It’s also a staple ingredient in herbal formulations, Ayurvedic beauty treatments, and ubtans — Ayurvedic treatments to cleanse and detox the body often used before traditional Indian weddings.
Whether it’s a tried-and-true skin care regimen, how often you wash your hair, or the cosmetics you’re curious about, beauty is personal.
That’s why we rely on a diverse group of writers, educators, and other experts to share their tips on everything from the way product application varies to the best sheet mask for your individual needs.
We only recommend something we genuinely love, so if you see a shop link to a specific product or brand, know that it’s been thoroughly researched by our team.
Multani mitti is a mineral-rich clay-like substance that gets its name from its city of origin, Multan in modern day Pakistan. With a texture that’s much finer than clay and with a higher water content, Multani mitti is known for decolorizing oil and other liquids without harsh adverse reactions.
It’s composed of hydrated aluminum silicates and is rich in magnesium chloride and calcium bentonite, a composition similar to bentonite clay. It’s found in a large range of natural colors like brown, green, and white.
Multani mitti is known as fuller’s earth in English for its historic use by textile workers known as “fullers.”
“Fuller’s earth was popularly mined in the state of Multan and exported to other regions of the Indian subcontinent. Thus, it came to be known as Multani Mitti,” says Jatin Gujrati, founder of Ayurvedic lifestyle brand Vedix. “Princesses and affluent women in Indian history always had a stash of Multani mitti along with sandalwood paste and gram flour, which they used for beauty treatments.”
A prime destination on the silk route, traders brought home Multan’s clay-like soil, and women used it extensively on their skin and hair at that time.
During World War II, fuller’s earth was mixed with water and applied to feet to reduce inflammation.
Multani mitti or fuller’s earth is used as a natural cleanser and astringent, offering a host of benefits for the skin, including:
- reducing oil
- fighting acne
- balancing and brightening skin tone
- reducing pigmentation
Oily skin
According to Rinky Kapoor, cosmetic dermatologist and surgeon at The Esthetic Clinic, Multani mitti contains mattifying properties that balance skin oils and remove impurities.
It’s especially beneficial for oily skin, as it helps open up clogged pores and absorbs excess sebum from the skin.
According to one study, Multani mitti removes dirt and absorbs excess oil.
Acne
According toVaishali Sawant, assistant medical director of Vedicure Healthcare and Wellness, Multani mitti is effective at treating acne. It does this by:
- removing sweat, impurities, and dead skin cells
- eliminating blackheads and whiteheads
- controlling excessive oil production
- shrinking the appearance of pores
- cooling the skin
- soothing irritation caused by inflammation
“The magnesium chloride in fuller’s earth is a magic anti-acne worker,” says Kapoor.
Skin tone and brightening
According to research, Multani mitti increases the cleanliness of the skin by removing dead skin cells from the surface, which results in:
- increased retention of nutrients and moisture
- improved circulation
- a tightening effect
- an exfoliating effect
These benefits provide a rejuvenated, glowing look.
Pigmentation
Multani mitti helps fight dark circles and sun damage due to its cooling effect on the skin.
“It gives you an even skin tone, tackles tanning and pigmentation, and is effective against sunburn, skin rashes, and infections,” adds Sawant.
Multani mitti can be used in multiple ways as a beauty treatment, including:
- face pack
- face mask
- spot treatment
- exfoliant
Face pack
In India, tightening face masks are often referred to as face packs. Multani mitti makes a great face pack and can be combined with other ingredients to suit different skin types.
It has both a cooling and tightening effect, helps reduce lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation while cleansing the skin.
You can try products like Reshma Beauty Fuller’s Earth Face Mask.
Spot treatment
Because of its oil-absorbing properties, Multani mitti makes a great spot treatment.
You can use a bit of a face mask or mix Multani mitti powder with water and dab it on pimples to dry them up and reduce redness.
In India, it’s popularly mixed with neem when used as a spot treatment.
Face mask
Multani mitti can be mixed with other ingredients to create a moisturizing and brightening face mask. Common ingredients include:
- papaya
- turmeric
- aloe vera
- egg whites
- tomato pulp
- yogurt
- honey
- avocado
- lemon
These ingredients can help add moisture or brightness to the skin.
Exfoliant
Multani mitti is very effective in removing dead cells from the surface of the skin.
Use it as a gentle scrub by mixing it with orange peel powder or powdered oats.
Want to give Multani mitti a try? The recipes below have you covered.
Simple face pack
For this face pack, you can use your favorite high fat milk if you have combination skin. Rose water works best for dehydrated skin.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup high fat milk of choice or rose water
- 1 tbsp. multani mitti powder
Directions:
- Mix one tbsp. of Multani mitti with 1/4 cup milk or rose water
- Apply to a clean, dry face.
- Leave on for 10 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Recipe courtesy of Manasi Shirolikar, head dermatologist at Remedico.
Spot treatment
This quick and easy spot treatment helps dry up acne fast.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp. food-grade sandalwood powder
- 1/4 tsp. turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp. Multanni mitti powder
- 2 tbsp. water
Directions:
- Mix sandalwood, turmeric, and Multani mitti powder with water until you get a thick paste.
- Apply directly to acne pimples and let dry. You can also leave it on overnight.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Recipe courtesy Jatin Gujrati of Vedix.
Cooling face mask
This simple face mask is moisturizing, brightening, and cleansing.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp. sandalwood powder
- 1 tbsp. Multani mitti powder
- 2 tsp. coconut water
- 2 tsp. high fat milk of choice
Steps:
- Mix the powders and liquids together.
- Spread paste on clean, dry skin.
- Leave on for 10 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Recipe courtesy Jeeshant Khan, formulations scientist at I am Love.
Exfoliating papaya mask
This exfoliating mask features the skin benefits of antioxidant-rich papaya.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. Multani mitti powder
- 1 tbsp. papaya pulp
Directions:
- Mix ingredients to create a paste.
- Apply to a clean, dry face.
- Allow to dry completely.
- Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Recipe courtesy Sushant Shetty of Kaya Limited.
Moisturizing mask
For skin types that need extra moisture, mix your Multani mitti with equal parts aloe vera gel. Make sure it’s food-grade and has no additives.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. Multani mitti
- 1 tbsp. aloe vera gel
Directions:
- Mix ingredients.
- Apply to clean, dry face.
- Leave for 10 minutes.
- Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Lemon exfoliant
This simple exfoliant blend can help slough off dead skin cells and brighten with lemon.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. Multani mitti
- 1 tsp. glycerine
- 1/4 tsp. lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. rose water
Directions:
- Mix ingredients to form a paste.
- Gently massage onto clean, dry skin in a circular motion.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Lemon and other citrus fruits may cause skin irritation for some people. You shouldn’t use lemon if you know you’re going to be out in the sun, as doing so can increase your risk of sunburn and other side effects. Always do a patch test before you use lemon in your skin care routine.
People with highly sensitive or dry skin should avoid using Multani mitti. Because it absorbs oil, Multani mitti can leave your skin feeling thirsty.
If you have sensitive skin, it may lead to redness or irritation.
Always do a patch test to rule out sensitivity and allergy before using any new product.
Multani mitti offers plenty of benefits for the skin, including cleansing, brightening, and toning properties.
To reap the benefits, you can use it in simple DIY recipes, like face masks, exfoliants, and spot treatments.
While it’s generally considered safe, it may irritate sensitive skin. Make sure you do a patch test before you give it a try.
Rashmi Gopal Rao is a freelance writer from Bangalore. She writes on travel, art, culture, wellness, food, and design. You can read more of her work at Rashmi Notes.
FAQs
How does multani mitti help skin? ›
Multani mitti helps fight dark circles and sun damage due to its cooling effect on the skin. “It gives you an even skin tone, tackles tanning and pigmentation, and is effective against sunburn, skin rashes, and infections,” adds Sawant.
What are the side effects of multani mitti? ›- Fuller's earth is not your dry skin's friend. ...
- It can make your sensitive skin even more sensitive. ...
- Using multani mitti can give you wrinkles. ...
- It can lead to hair breakage.
Multani mitti Take two tablespoons of sandalwood powder. Take one tablespoon of gram flour or besan. Take one tablespoon of rose water Mix all to get a paste-like consistency Apply on a clean face and leave for 15 minutes Rinse off and apply moisturiser Use twice a week for best results.
What can we mix with multani mitti for face? ›Face pack for cleansing and brightening
Mix a spoonful of multani mitti with half a spoon of sandalwood powder, 1/4th spoon of turmeric powder and a spoonful of rose water or milk to create a paste. Apply it on the face, leave it on till completely dry and wash with cold water.
4) Can we use multani mitti daily? Yes, a multani mitti pack can be applied every other day for oily skin. Instead of lemon juice, rose water can be used.
Can Multani mitti remove dark spots? ›Yes, multani mitti can treat dark spots. It is a form of clay that has numerous skin benefits for reducing dark circles, blemishes, pigmentation, wrinkles, and excess oil from the skin.
What is called Multani Mitti in English? ›Multani Mitti, Fullers Earth or Bentonite Clay, is quite simply mud on your face or in your hair. Multani Mitti is also known as Indian Healing Clay because of its beneficial properties to skin and hair.
What happens if we keep Multani Mitti on face? ›Multani mitti is able to soak up excess oil, dirt and sweat from the skin, so it can perform a complete clean-up job on the pores from the inside-out. This helps to prevent acne, pimples and blackheads, as pores are healthier in that case.
How many days in a week we can use Multani Mitti? ›Use this remedy for 2-3 times a week for a clear and smooth skin. a. Take 1 teaspoon of Multani mitti.
Is multani mitti good for skin whitening? ›Evens out skin tone and brightens complexion
Multani mitti is also aids in improving skin tone. It has mild bleaching effect which helps in reducing blemishes and dark spots. Make a pack using multani mitti, lemon juice and raw milk and apply on the affected area. Wash after 20 minutes.
How long does multani mitti take to lighten skin? ›
Add 1/2 tablespoon of milk to 1 tablespoon of Multani mitti. Mix it thoroughly to create a thick paste. Apply this for 15 to 20 minutes on your face and neck. For best results, use twice weekly.
Where did multani mitti come from? ›Multani mitti (Hindustani: ملتانی مٹّی, मुल्तानी मिट्टी; transl. 'clay of Multan'), widely used in the Indian subcontinent in cosmetics. The name comes from the city of Multan, in modern-day Pakistan, the area of its origin.
Who should not use multani mitti? ›People who have sensitive skin should stay away from beauty products. They should not use 'Multani Mitti', because it might dry out your skin because of its high absorbing power. Dry skin people should not us 'Multani Mitti' as it can make the skin even drier and lifeless.
Does multani mitti make face glow? ›Get a gorgeous glow: Multani mitti adds natural oils to your skin nourishing it from within & making it glow naturally. Take two spoons of multani mitti, a spoon of tomato juice and a dash of sandalwood powder. Make this into a fine paste. Add a pinch of turmeric powder to this mixture.
How can I remove spots from my face in 2 days naturally? ›- Drink Plenty Of Water. Drinking plenty of water can do wonders to your skin. ...
- Lemon Juice And Yogurt Face Mask. We all know that lemons have a number of benefits. ...
- Buttermilk. ...
- Aloe Vera. ...
- Tomatoes. ...
- Papaya. ...
- Honey.
Multani mitti face pack works as an effective and Skin friendly cleaning agent that helps to lighten blemishes or scars and also does away with skin inflammations in the most effective manner that gets one clearer complexion owing to its exfoliating properties.
How long does it take multani mitti to work? ›Application of Face packs and hair packs for twenty minutes to one hour is enough time frame to make this miraculous clay play tunes of magic on your skin and hair. And as a result, you will get that perfect harmony of beauty and charm together. You can use Multani Mitti packs on daily basis as well as when needed.
How can I get rid of dark spots in 3 days? ›- Aloe vera gel. Aloe vera is the jack of all trades when it comes to wound healing and moisturising. ...
- Milk. Raw milk face masks can provide numerous skin advantages. ...
- Green tea. ...
- Tomatoes. ...
- Tea tree oil. ...
- Turmeric. ...
- Lemon juice. ...
- Potatoes.
- Potatoes. Also Read. ...
- Buttermilk. Buttermilk fades away black spots and can do so without causing a stinging burn. ...
- Lemon Juice. ...
- Oatmeal. ...
- Milk. ...
- Aloe Vera. ...
- Turmeric powder. ...
- Tumeric Powder (Part 2)
- Laser therapy: This involves a dermatologist using a beam of light to target areas of discoloration. ...
- Chemical peels: Professional chemical peels are stronger versions of OTC acid exfoliants. ...
- Microdermabrasion: This exfoliating treatment uses minuscule particles to remove dead skin cells.
What is the difference between bentonite clay and Multani Mitti? ›
Multani mitti is the Hindi name for bentonite clay.
The name is derived from a place called Multani, from where the clay was believed to be found; whereas mitti means mud. As clay is a mud originated from the earth, its chemical contents are found to have many valuable benefits for the skin.
Suitable for all skin types. Key Ingredient : Multani mitti. Shelf life – 3 years.
Is sandalwood and Multani Mitti same? ›It has a natural, earthy aroma. Sandalwood is obtained from the trees of the genus Santalum. (Sandalwood (Santalum album/Chandan) II Multani mitti, also known as Fuller's earth, is a mineral-rich clay material that has long been used as a beauty ingredient.
Does multani mitti remove wrinkles? ›Using Multani mitti can not only improve the skin but can also remove many skin problems. In such a situation, people use Multani mitti in many ways. Some do it with rose water, some with lemon and honey.
What is the best time to apply multani mitti? ›Apply on the face and neck and rinse off using water after 30-40 minutes. Do this once or twice a week. Mix a tablespoon of multani mitti with a teaspoon of sandalwood powder. Add enough water to make a smooth paste.
Where is multani mitti found? ›Live2Give's Multani Mitti (Fullers Earth) is a genuine and pure product sourced from the Multan region (the area that circles through Rajasthan (Barmer) and Multan).
Does Multani mitti remove open pores? ›Fuller's earth or Multani mitti face pack for open pores: Multani mitti is a miraculous natural home remedy that has many useful properties. It reduces open pores, absorbs extra oil, and exfoliates the skin. Additionally, it also reduces blemishes and scars and benefits skin that is damaged by the sun.
What happens if we apply Multani mitti on hair? ›Multani mitti, also known as Fuller's Earth, is a clay that has cleansing benefits for the skin and hair. Its naturally absorbent properties allow it to cleanse your hair of oil while remaining gentle on your skin. It can be made into a hair mask to clean and condition your hair.
Can I use soap after using Multani mitti? ›Also, you can mix Multani mitti and rose water and apply it on the face, avoiding the lips and the area around the eyes. Wash this off when dry. For glowing skin, drink plenty of water and include fruits, sprouts and salads in your diet. You can wash the face with soap twice or thrice a day.
What religion is Multani? ›The Multani Lohar are a Muslim community found in the state of Gujarat in India.
Why is it called multani mitti? ›
Since this mineral was available only in the markets of Multan, it was named MULTANI MITTI.
Why does my skin itch after applying multani mitti? ›At the beginning of the drying phase, the paste tightens and stimulates blood flow as the mask cools and contracts. This is the ideal phase to take the mask off, when it is tacky to the touch. Once it gets too dry and hard, it starts to pull out moisture from the skin surface, leaving it dehydrated and itchy.
Which age group can use multani mitti? ›multani mitti n besan are scrubs , they provide the friction which is not required for babies till 8 year old .
Can I mix honey and multani mitti? ›Multani Mitti For Glowing Skin
Besides your everyday skincare routine, take an extra step to keep your glow going with DIY Multani mitti. Adding nourishing ingredients like honey and milk will keep your skin soft and supple whereas lemon and tomato juice will keep your skin from pesky spots.
Use An Over-the-Counter Acne Spot Treatment
Salicylic acid, mentioned above, is one of these. Another important ingredient to look for is benzoyl peroxide. In addition to reducing oil and removing dead skin cells, benzoyl peroxide also helps kill the bacteria that cause the pimples.
Does baking soda help remove dark spots? A. Owing to its bleaching properties, baking soda can help fade away black marks and spots on the skin. However, it's important that you mix baking soda with other natural ingredients as it can be harsh on your skin if used topically.
Does Colgate remove dark spots? ›Colgate can get rid of pimples and dark spots
Dabbing a little bit of classic Colgate on the pimple and leaving it to dry overnight will help to dry it up and reduce the swelling around it. Remember to moisturise your skin in the morning though! Colgate can also help to clear any dark spots you might have.
Evens out skin tone and brightens complexion
Multani mitti is also aids in improving skin tone. It has mild bleaching effect which helps in reducing blemishes and dark spots. Make a pack using multani mitti, lemon juice and raw milk and apply on the affected area. Wash after 20 minutes.
The oil-absorbing properties of multani mitti make it effective against acne and help speed up the healing process. Used as a scrub, multani mitti can slough away dead skin cells and remove blackheads and whiteheads, giving skin a natural and healthy glow. Boosts circulation and improves skin health and tone.
How often should you apply Multani mitti? ›Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to control oil and pimples on the skin. a. Take 1 teaspoon of Multani mitti.
Does Multani mitti make face glow? ›
Get a gorgeous glow: Multani mitti adds natural oils to your skin nourishing it from within & making it glow naturally. Take two spoons of multani mitti, a spoon of tomato juice and a dash of sandalwood powder. Make this into a fine paste. Add a pinch of turmeric powder to this mixture.
How long does Multani Mitti take to lighten skin? ›Add 1/2 tablespoon of milk to 1 tablespoon of Multani mitti. Mix it thoroughly to create a thick paste. Apply this for 15 to 20 minutes on your face and neck. For best results, use twice weekly.
How long does it take Multani Mitti to work? ›Application of Face packs and hair packs for twenty minutes to one hour is enough time frame to make this miraculous clay play tunes of magic on your skin and hair. And as a result, you will get that perfect harmony of beauty and charm together. You can use Multani Mitti packs on daily basis as well as when needed.
Where did Multani Mitti come from? ›Multani mitti (Hindustani: ملتانی مٹّی, मुल्तानी मिट्टी; transl. 'clay of Multan'), widely used in the Indian subcontinent in cosmetics. The name comes from the city of Multan, in modern-day Pakistan, the area of its origin.
Does Multani Mitti remove open pores? ›Fuller's earth or Multani mitti face pack for open pores: Multani mitti is a miraculous natural home remedy that has many useful properties. It reduces open pores, absorbs extra oil, and exfoliates the skin. Additionally, it also reduces blemishes and scars and benefits skin that is damaged by the sun.