does multani mitti expire - #22506
I am wondering about something that’s been bothering me. I bought some Multani mitti a few months ago 'cause I heard it’s great for my skin. Anyway, I noticed that the color was a bit off lately, and I started thinking, does multani mitti expire? Like, can it go bad or something? I mean, I’ve seen people using it in different forms, but I never thought about how long it lasts. I used it on my face last week, and it still worked well, but this old pack has been sitting in my cabinet for a while now. I've read conflicting stuff online, some say it lasts forever if kept dry, which makes sense to me, but then others mention using it within a certain timeframe. Does multani mitti expire for real? Should I toss it out just to be safe? Like, are there any signs I should look for, scent or consistency, that tell me it’s past its prime? I don’t wanna risk a reaction, you know? Please help!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Multani mitti, also known as Fuller’s Earth, doesn’t have an official expiration date like perishable goods, but that doesn’t mean it lasts indefinitely without any risk of changes in quality. Like most natural products, its efficacy can diminish over time, and exposure to certain conditions can cause it to degrade. The changes in color you’re noticing could indicate it has been exposed to moisture or contaminants, which can affect its performance and potentially cause skin irritation. If it smells off or the texture has changed (e.g., it’s clumping or feels less smooth), it’s safer to replace it. The general advice is to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, to minimize degradation. Although there’s no strict timeline, many people find it remains effective for up to a year if properly stored. If you’ve had it for several months without any issues but are starting to notice differences now, that’s a sign it might be time to get a fresh supply. Using outdated products may not only reduce their effectiveness but potentially increase the risk of skin reactions, especially if impurities have been introduced. It’s understandable to want to avoid waste, but when it comes to your skin, erring on the side of caution is wise. Wouldn’t hurt to conduct a patch test next time if you suspect any changes.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.