Isfahani Ithmid kohl is a distinct type of ithmid kohl, and is made from ithmid stones from Isfahan region
Its colour is dark burgundy and according to some sources is regarded as best type of ithmid kohl in terms of purity and effectiveness (however, this is debatable as there is no much difference between it and the red hejazi).
Misinformation about the isfahani ithmid kohl
Isfahani ithmid kohl is a distinct and on-its-own type of ithmid kohl. It is totally different from red hijazi kohl in terms of its source. Some online sellers wrongly mix between the two.
The Isfahani ithmid kohl only comes in red/burgundy colour to the best of our knowledge. There is no black type of it. However, some online sellers are selling black kohl as black isfahani, either out of genuine ignorance (they too were led to believe so) or for marketing purposes ( trying to capitalise on the reputation of the isfahani and selling kohl from other places as isfahani)
Difference between red Ithmid and black types of ithmid kohl
All types of ithmid kohl regardless of colour possess the beneficial effects associated with the use of ithmid kohl and mentioned in the sunnah. However, the red types are regarded to be better medicinally and more effective than the black types, and the isfahani type is regarded as the best in this regard.
The red ithmid kohl types are much lighter than the black types. This small bottle of isfahani ithmid 7-8 grams when filled. The same amount of black ithmid kohl ( full small bottle) would weigh around 10-12 grams. This indicates how lighter and finer the red types are compared to the black ones. This could result in better and easirer absorption of the active ingredients by the eyes and would explain why it is regarded as best for medicinal use.
Because of its lightness and fineness, isfahani ithmid kohl is generally recommended for people with sensitive eyes (though majority of people have no problem with black types too) and for those looking to use the ithmid kohl as a form of alternative or complimentary treatment.
The advantage of the black types is that because of their colour they can have cosmetic benefits and enhance the look of the eyes, and can be used as a natural alternative to eyeliners and mascara. So as well as having the same or similar benefits as the red types, they also give a nice look to eye rims as well eyelashes. They can also be used on eyebrow to enhance the look and increase volume.
Difference between the isfahani and red hejazi ithmid kohl
