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.
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.
How to use Multani mitti
Multani mitti can be used in multiple ways as a beauty treatment, including:
face pack
face mask
spot treatment
exfoliant