What Is Muslin?
Muslin is a Lightweight and breathable loosely woven cotton fabric that dates back to Ancient India. This type of cloth is made using the plain weave technique, which means that a single weft thread alternates over and under a single warp thread.
Muslin cloths are an essential part of every skincare routine; they help you remove daily dirt, sunblock, make-up and skincare products in a gentle way.
What Is the History of Muslin?
The first reference to muslin was during the prehistoric period in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It continued to be a very valuable commodity, often holding the same value as gold, and has been traded around the world throughout human history. European traders first discovered the muslin in Mosul, Iraq, however, hence the name muslin.
How to use Muslin cloth
- Muslin cloths offer a gentle approach to exfoliating, as cloths tend to be much more absorbent than brushes due to their airy, fast-drying fabric.
- Place a small amount of the cleanser on the warm, wet cloth
- Gently massage into skin to buff away impurities on the surface like dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and leftover make-up.
Benefits of Muslin Cloths for Skin
- Pout perfector: Before applying your lip make-up, use a damp muslin cloth to gently buff lips in a circular motion. Follow up with a hydrating lip balm to reintroduce moisture to the exfoliated area.
- Increases collagen production: Light exfoliation buffs away dry skin and refines skin texture which increases collagen production.
- Ingrown hair remover: Exfoliating areas prone to ingrown hairs with a muslin cloth encourage the hairs underneath to come to the surface and allows for easier access to remove the hair afterwards.
- Reduces inflammation: Stimulating the lymphatic system with exfoliation increases blood flow in that area which can reduce inflammation.
- They dry very quickly due to their open weave so this prevents any bacteria growing.
- Original muslin fabrics are eco-friendly due to it being biodegradable, because cotton easily decomposes into soil. Muslin cloths are reusable, which means less waste ends up in landfills, and no harmful chemicals are added into the water system when washing them.
Fabric Care Guide: How to Care for Muslin
Muslin should be treated gently when washing, best practice includes:
- Machine wash or hand wash muslin using cold water.
- Use gentle laundry detergent.
- Hang the item or lay muslin flat to dry or tumble dry on low and remove the item from the dryer before it’s completely dry
If you are intrigued to try a muslin cloth try Violet Jordan’s Muslin Cloth that washes away all traces of dirt and make-up.