Multani Mitti, also called Fuller's earth powder, is a natural mineral clay best known for absorbing excess oil, gently cleansing pores and calming acne-prone skin. You mix the yellowish-brown powder with water, rose water or another liquid to make a paste, apply it as a face pack or hair mask, and rinse it off once it dries. It is a simple, budget-friendly staple in Indian skincare, and a little goes a long way.
What is Fuller's earth?
Fuller's earth (INCI name Solum fullonum, CAS 8031-18-3) is a soft, mineral-rich clay that has been used for generations across India. Azlok's Fuller's earth is a paraben-free powder with around 98% purity, sold as everything from a small 100 gm pack for home use to bulk 25 kg sacks for makers and small businesses.
Its main strength is absorption. The clay draws out excess sebum, sweat and grime, which is why it suits oily and combination skin so well. It also helps to gently exfoliate, smooth uneven texture and refresh a tired scalp.
Common uses
- Oil-control face pack: mops up excess oil and leaves skin feeling matte and clean.
- Acne and blackhead care: unclogs pores and calms occasional breakouts.
- Gentle exfoliation: lifts away dead skin to even out texture.
- Scalp and hair mask: removes buildup and dirt, and refreshes an oily scalp.
- DIY cosmetics: a useful base in homemade clay bars, masks and body packs.
How to use it: simple recipes
Basic oil-control face pack
- Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of Fuller's earth in a non-metal bowl.
- Add rose water or plain water a little at a time to make a smooth, spreadable paste.
- Apply an even layer to clean skin, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not let it dry rock-hard.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Follow with a moisturiser.
For dry or dull skin
Mix the clay with curd (yoghurt), honey or a few drops of a carrier oil instead of plain water. This keeps skin from feeling tight after rinsing.
Scalp and hair mask
Blend Fuller's earth with water to a runny paste, work it into the scalp and hair lengths, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. It is a mild, cleansing option for oily roots.
Tips and safety notes
- Patch-test first. Apply a small amount on your inner arm and wait 24 hours before using on the face.
- Do not over-dry. Rinse before the pack turns fully stiff to avoid leaving skin tight and stripped.
- Limit frequency. Once or twice a week is plenty for most people; oily skin can go a little more often.
- Always moisturise after. Clay is deep-cleansing, so replace lost hydration.
- Use non-metal tools. Mix in glass, ceramic or plastic with a wooden or silicone spatula.
- External use only. This is a cosmetic clay, not for eating. Keep it away from children and avoid breathing in the fine dust while mixing.
- If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, check with a dermatologist before regular use.
Buying and storage
Choose your pack size by how you use the clay. A 100 gm or 500 gm pack suits occasional home use, while 5 kg and larger bags make sense for soap makers, salons and small cosmetic brands. Azlok's Fuller's earth carries a shelf life of about two years.
Store the powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Because clay readily absorbs water from the air, always use a clean, dry spoon so it does not clump. If your batch develops any off smell or dampness, discard it.
FAQ
Is Multani Mitti and Fuller's earth the same thing?
Yes. Multani Mitti is the common Indian name for Fuller's earth, a natural absorbent mineral clay. Both terms refer to the same product.
Can I use Fuller's earth on dry skin?
You can, but mix it with hydrating ingredients like curd, honey or a carrier oil rather than plain water, and always moisturise afterwards so your skin does not feel tight.
How often should I use a Multani Mitti face pack?
Once or twice a week works for most skin types. Very oily skin can tolerate slightly more frequent use, while dry or sensitive skin should stick to once a week.
Can Fuller's earth be used on hair?
Yes. Made into a paste and applied to the scalp and hair, it helps remove buildup and excess oil. Rinse well and condition the lengths, as clay can be drying.
Is Azlok's Fuller's earth safe and paraben-free?
Azlok's Fuller's earth is a paraben-free cosmetic-grade powder of around 98% purity meant for external skin and hair care. It is not for ingestion, so keep it out of reach of children.