What is it? |
Fuller’s Earth/Multani Mitti clay is a naturally occurring clay. It has long been used in skin care as a brightening and purifying face mask. It also has a history of use in wool production, being used to remove oil from the wool as it’s a great oil absorber. |
INCI |
Fuller’s Earth |
Appearance |
Cream to beige fine powder |
Usage rate |
Up to 100% |
Texture |
Smooth, fine powder |
Scent |
A bit dusty |
Solubility |
Insoluble |
Why do we use it in formulations? |
Fuller’s Earth/Multani Mitti clay can be combined with liquid to create a face mask. It can be used as a mild physical exfoliant/abrasive, and can be added to soap to make it creamier. |
Do you need it? |
No |
Strengths |
Simple, smooth clay with a long history of use. |
Weaknesses |
I haven’t been particularly taken with it over any of the other clays. |
Alternatives & Substitutions |
I’d use kaolin clay instead as my first choice. After that, another smooth clay like French green clay would be a good choice. I would not use bentonite clay instead. |
How to Work with It |
Take care not to inhale large amounts of Fuller’s Earth/Multani Mitti clay. When blending with liquid I recommend adding small amounts of clay to the liquid, whisking until smooth before adding more clay. Add at trace in soap making (start with 1–2 tbsp/500g of oils). |
Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, Fuller’s Earth/Multani Mitti clay should last indefinitely. |
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
Fuller’s Earth/Multani Mitti clay has many non-DIY uses, including cat litter and a poisoning treatment! |
Recommended starter amount |
100g (3.3oz) |
Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |