Al Asmad Surma (Ithmid Kohl), Black and Brown

Al Asmad Surma is a traditional kohl (surma) made with ithmid, the kohl stone that Urdu speakers call asmad (اثمد). It comes in black and brown shades, with the bottle, box and applicator shown in the photos. Ithmid has been used for the eyes across the Muslim world for centuries, and many people apply it because of the hadith in its praise.

Ithmid in the Sunnah

Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said: "The best of your kohl is ithmid: it brightens the eyesight and makes the eyelashes grow." This hadith is in Sunan Abu Dawud (3878), and Shaykh al-Albani graded it sahih.

How to apply surma

• Dip the applicator (salai) in the surma and tap off the extra.
• Close the eye gently and draw the applicator along the lash line, from the inner corner outwards.
• Many people apply it at night before sleeping.
• Keep the bottle closed after use, and do not share the applicator.
• If your eyes become irritated, stop using it, and ask a doctor first if you have an eye condition.

Why buy from Darul Andlus

Darul Andlus has served customers from Urdu Bazar, Lahore, since 1992, and sells Al Asmad surma alongside its books. Orders are delivered across Pakistan, and you can order or ask a question on WhatsApp at 0320 4327922. See more products for health and the Sunnah in our Health collection.