“What to Know Before Using Multani Mitti on Acne-Prone Skin”

“What to Know Before Using Multani Mitti on Acne-Prone Skin”

By Dr. Mohd Rizwan Khan | Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

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Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth) has been used for generations in Indian households as a go-to for oily skin and pimples.

But is it safe for everyone — especially for acne-prone skin?

At our clinic, we’ve seen both the good and bad sides of Multani Mitti.

So let’s clear the confusion.

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✅ Why People Use Multani Mitti

Multani Mitti is a natural clay packed with minerals. When mixed with water, rose water, or even curd, it becomes a thick paste. People use it as a face pack for:

• Soaking up oil

• Reducing shine

• Cooling down skin

• Feeling “clean” after sweat and dirt buildup

For some with oily skin, it gives a nice, fresh look — temporarily.

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🚨 But… Not Everyone’s Skin Likes It

Especially if your skin is acne-prone, sensitive, or tends to get dry and irritated — Multani Mitti can make things worse.

Here’s what we see in clinic:

1. Over-drying the skin

Multani Mitti pulls out oil — but if used too often, it removes your skin’s natural protective oils too.

Result?

Your skin becomes too dry → Produces more oil to compensate → More breakouts

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2. Clogged pores if not removed properly

It dries and tightens on the skin. If it’s not washed off properly, residue can stay in pores and block them — leading to blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples.

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3. Increased sensitivity

Some patients experience itching, redness, or rashes — especially those with sensitive or combination skin.

“Doctor, I applied Multani Mitti for 3 days in a row… now my skin is red and burning.”

– Common patient concern

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🧴 When It Can Be Used – With Caution

Multani Mitti is not evil. It just needs to be used the right way, and not by everyone.

✔️ Who Can Try It (Once in a while):

• People with very oily skin

• Those without active pimples or wounds

• Used once a week max, not daily

❌ Who Should Avoid It:

• Active acne or inflamed skin

• Dry or sensitive skin

• People on acne treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, etc.)

• If your dermatologist has advised against clay-based packs

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🔄 Better, Safer Alternatives

If your goal is to reduce oil and acne:

• Use a gentle clay-based face wash with kaolin or bentonite (less harsh than Multani Mitti)

• Try salicylic acid or niacinamide-based cleansers or masks

• Visit a clinic for professional acne treatments like chemical peels, blue light therapy, or proper medications

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Final Word from Dr. Rizwan

Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe for all skin types.

Multani Mitti is not a miracle cure for acne — and using it the wrong way can delay real treatment.

If you’ve been using Multani Mitti and not seeing results — or if your skin is reacting — pause and get it checked.

We’re here to help you understand your skin, and treat it based on science, not social media DIYs.

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📍 Book a consultation at Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

Or message us with your skin concern — let’s find out what works for your skin.