Fuller’s Earth Powder | Multani Mitti | Indian Bentonite Clay

Very closely related. Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth) is a natural clay primarily composed of bentonite and/or palygorskite minerals. “Bentonite clay” and “Multani Mitti” are often used interchangeably in the skincare world, though technically Multani Mitti can contain a mix of clay minerals (not just bentonite). Both share the key property: exceptional absorption of oil, toxins, and impurities from the skin. Indian Multani Mitti has been valued for centuries specifically for skincare — it’s the original “clay mask” long before Western beauty brands discovered bentonite.

Multani Mitti is most beneficial for oily and combination skin because of its strong oil-absorbing properties. For dry skin, pure Multani Mitti can be too drying if used frequently. However, you can absolutely use it on dry skin by mixing it with hydrating ingredients: honey, yoghurt, cream, olive oil, or glycerin. These additions counteract the drying effect while still delivering the pore-cleansing and brightening benefits. For dry skin, limit use to once a week and always follow with a good moisturiser. For oily skin, 2–3 times a week is fine.

Yes — Multani Mitti is traditionally used on both the face and body. It’s particularly effective on the back (back acne), shoulders, chest, and arms. For full-body use, dissolve a larger amount in water, apply the paste to affected areas, let it dry, then shower off. Some people add Multani Mitti to bath water for an all-over skin treatment. It’s also used as a natural body scrub when mixed with a coarser ingredient like oatmeal or rice flour. The 450g and 1kg sizes are ideal if you plan to use it on the body regularly.

Yes — Multani Mitti is an excellent scalp cleanser, particularly for oily hair and dandruff. Mix the clay with water into a thin paste, apply to the scalp, massage gently, leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. It absorbs excess scalp oil, removes product buildup, and leaves hair feeling clean and voluminous. It’s essentially a natural “clarifying treatment” — the same concept behind expensive salon clay treatments. For dry or coloured hair, use sparingly (once every 2 weeks) and follow with a conditioner, as the clay can strip moisture.

The 100g pack ($9.99) provides approximately 10–15 face mask applications — enough for about a month of regular use (2–3 times per week). The 450g pack is the best value for regular face-mask users — a 3–4 month supply. The 1kg pack ($79.99) is ideal if you use Multani Mitti on both the face and body, or if the whole family uses it. Raw Multani Mitti has an indefinite shelf life when stored dry — it’s a mineral clay, not a perishable product. Buy the larger size without worrying about it expiring.