Multani Mitti Face Mask: Benefits, How to Use and Who It Suits

Multani mitti, also called Fuller's earth, has been part of Indian beauty routines for generations. Mothers and grandmothers mixed it with rose water for a cooling face pack, and it is still one of the most popular natural ingredients in face masks today. Here is what it does and how to use it well.

What is multani mitti?

Multani mitti is a natural clay. Like other clays such as kaolin, it is known for absorbing excess oil from the skin's surface, which is why it is a favourite for oily and combination skin.

What a multani mitti face mask can do

  • Absorb excess oil and leave a fresh, matte finish.
  • Help unclog pores by lifting oil and dirt from the surface.
  • Make pores look smaller and skin feel smoother for a while after use.
  • Feel cooling and refreshing, which is especially welcome in Indian summers.

Who it suits

  • Oily skin: the best match. Use two to three times a week.
  • Combination skin: apply on the T-zone, or all over once or twice a week.
  • Normal skin: once a week as a refresh.
  • Dry or sensitive skin: use with care, keep it short and always moisturise after. A mask blended with soothing ingredients is a better choice than plain clay.

Plain multani mitti vs a ready-made mask

Plain multani mitti mixed with water can feel very drying, and it is messy to prepare. A ready-made mask balances the clay with other ingredients. The Theraglam Revive Face Mask combines multani mitti and kaolin with:

  • Rose flower extract to soothe and soften.
  • Aloe vera extract to hydrate and calm.
  • Chandan (sandalwood) and nagarmotha, traditional Ayurvedic herbs for a more even-looking tone.
  • Kapoor kachri and haldi (turmeric), traditionally used in detoxifying face packs.
  • Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

How to use a multani mitti mask

  1. Cleanse your face and pat it dry.
  2. Apply an even layer, avoiding the eyes and lips.
  3. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry gently.
  5. Follow with serum and moisturiser.

How often?

Two to three times a week is the guide for the Revive Face Mask. Start with once a week if your skin is dry or sensitive, and increase only if it feels comfortable.

Common mistakes

  • Leaving it on until it cracks and pulls. Rinse within the recommended time.
  • Scrubbing it off. Soften it with water and rinse gently.
  • Skipping moisturiser. Clay takes oil away, so put some hydration back.
  • Using it daily. More often is not better.

Quick questions

Can I mix multani mitti with rose water? Many people do with plain clay. A ready-made mask like Revive already includes rose extract.

Is multani mitti good for pimples? It helps absorb oil, which many people with oily, breakout-prone skin like. For persistent or painful acne, see a dermatologist.

Can men use it? Yes, it suits any skin type that matches the guide above.

Not sure which products suit your skin? The Theraglam Glow Scan builds a personal skincare routine from 3 photos and a short quiz. Rs 599, one time.

Patch-test any new product on your inner arm for 24 hours first. Stop using it if you notice irritation. This article is general skincare guidance, not medical advice.

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