In many Pakistani homes, a small surmedani sits on the shelf next to the attar and the tasbeeh. Grandparents put a little surma in their eyes before sleeping, and many men apply it before Jumu’ah. Among all kinds of surma, asmad surma, also called ithmid or ismid, holds a special place because it is linked to the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
But not every surma sold in the market is the same. This guide explains what asmad surma is, what the authentic narrations say, how to apply it the traditional way, and what to check before you buy.
What is asmad surma?
Asmad (اثمد) is a natural stone. When it is ground into a very fine powder, it becomes the traditional kohl known as ithmid. In Arabic it is called ithmid, while in Pakistan people often say asmad, ismid or athmad surma. They all refer to the same stone-based kohl.
Our 100% Natural Al Asmad Surma is an authentic, stone-ground ithmid surma imported directly from Madina. It is a grey natural powder made from pure asmad stone, without chemical mixtures or lead oxide. That last point matters, and we explain why below.
Surma in the Sunnah
Applying kohl is a well-known Sunnah. In a hadith reported in Sunan Abu Dawud and Jami at-Tirmidhi, the Prophet ﷺ said that among the best kohl is ithmid, as it clears the eyesight and makes the eyelashes grow. This is why Muslims around the world have valued ithmid for centuries.
Some narrations also mention that the Prophet ﷺ applied kohl at night before sleeping, so many people like to apply surma at bedtime as part of their daily routine.
Please note that these are religious narrations. They are not a medical promise from us, and surma is not a replacement for eye treatment.
How to apply asmad surma the traditional way
If you have never used powder surma before, it takes a few tries to get comfortable. Follow these simple steps:
- Wash your hands and face. Make wudu or simply wash with clean water, then dry your eyes gently.
- Use a clean salai. A salai is the thin applicator stick, usually metal or wood. Make sure it is clean and smooth, with no sharp edges.
- Pick up a small amount. Dip the tip of the salai in the surma and tap off the extra powder. A little goes a long way.
- Apply along the inner lid. Look up slightly, rest the salai on the lower waterline, close your eye gently, and pull the salai out from the inner to the outer corner.
- Repeat. Many people apply it two or three times in each eye, usually at night before sleeping.
Your eyes may water a little the first few times. This is common with powder surma. Simply blink and let it settle, and wipe away any extra from the outer corner with a clean tissue.
Safety and hygiene: what to keep in mind
Your eyes are delicate, so a few simple habits make a big difference.
- Avoid surma with added lead. Some cheap market kohl products are known to contain lead, which is harmful, especially for children. Choose a stone-based surma that clearly says it has no lead oxide or chemical mixtures.
- Do not share your salai. Each family member should have their own applicator, just like a toothbrush.
- Keep the bottle closed. Close the lid after every use so dust and moisture stay out.
- Stop if you feel irritation. If your eyes become red, painful or swollen, stop using it and see a doctor.
- Be careful with children and contact lenses. Ask your doctor before applying surma to a child, and remove contact lenses before applying it.
Surma is a traditional practice, not a treatment. If you have an eye infection, weak eyesight or any eye problem, please see an eye specialist. Also consult your doctor if you are pregnant, diabetic, on medication, or have a health condition.
Our asmad surma options compared
We currently stock two Al Asmad surma listings. Both are made in Saudi Arabia from pure asmad stone without any mixture. Prices below are the live prices from our store.
| Product | Best for | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Natural Al Asmad Surma (Madina imported) | Daily Sunnah use, stone-ground grey ithmid with no lead oxide | Rs 650 | View |
| 100% Natural Al Asmad Surma (black) | Those who prefer the black listing of the same Al Asmad surma | Rs 650 | View |
You can see both in our Asmad Surma collection, along with other items in our Natural Products range.
How to tell if your surma is likely genuine
There is no perfect home test, but these points help you avoid poor-quality surma:
- Texture: Good ithmid is a very fine, smooth powder. A gritty or sandy feel is uncomfortable in the eyes.
- Clear labelling: The pack should say what it is made from. Ours is made from asmad stone only, without any sort of mixture.
- No added shine or strong smell: Natural stone surma does not need glitter, perfume or bright artificial colour.
- A seller you can return to: Buy from a store that clearly lists the source and offers a return policy if something is wrong.
A thoughtful Sunnah gift
Asmad surma makes a meaningful gift for parents, elders, or someone returning from Umrah. Pair it with an alcohol-free attar such as Ghilaf e Kaba Attar 6ml and a box of Ajwa Dates from Madina for a complete Sunnah-inspired gift. For more ideas, read our Islamic gift ideas for Ramadan, Eid and Umrah, and if you are new to oil perfumes, our guide on attar vs perfume explains how to apply attar.
How to order
You can order asmad surma from She’s Collection with Cash on Delivery all over Pakistan. Orders usually arrive in 2–5 working days, and delivery is free on orders of Rs 700 or more. Unused items in their original packing can be returned within 7 days. If you have a question, message us on WhatsApp or use the Smart Assistant chat on our website, which can also place your order for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is asmad surma the same as ithmid?
Yes. Asmad, ismid, athmad and ithmid are different spellings and names for the same natural stone kohl.
When is the best time to apply surma?
Some narrations mention the Prophet ﷺ applying kohl at night before sleeping, so many people follow that routine. Some men also apply it before Jumu’ah or Eid prayers.
Does your surma contain lead?
Our 100% Natural Al Asmad Surma is made from pure asmad stone without chemical mixtures or lead oxide, and it is imported from Madina.
Can women use asmad surma?
Yes, surma is used by both men and women. Follow the same hygiene steps, use your own clean salai, and stop if you feel any irritation.
Can surma cure weak eyesight?
No, we do not claim that surma cures any condition. It is a traditional Sunnah practice. For weak eyesight or any eye problem, please see an eye specialist.
