Is perfume Halal or Haram?
Perfumes are universally loved and can connect people from different cultures and religion in so many ways. Islam considers alcohol to be haram. Does that mean perfumes that contain alcohol is haram? Well, you may be surprised by the answer, and this is why we want to clear up any doubts and consider views from different scholars. Fragrances have long been considered staples in the Islamic faith because the religion places importance on grooming and cleanliness. The Prophet reiterated that purification is a valuable religious practice. In fact, wearing perfume is a Sunnah of the Prophet. Thus, perfumes are not barred for Muslims. However, there are certain things that a Muslim should take into consideration regarding perfumes.
Pure perfume oils or attars are unconditionally halal in Islam. The primary reason why modern-day designer and niche perfumes present such a dilemma is that they tend to include a combination of scented oils and alcohol carriers. The concentration of the fragrance determines the alcohol content, which can vary between 20-80%. Since the consumption of alcohol is considered haram in Islam, usage of such perfumes fall in a grey area and hence some people avoid any perfumes that contain alcohol.
Various scholars have reiterated that the alcohol used in perfumes is considered “pure” because it is created artificially in a lab with the help of chemical distillation process. Drinking alcohol usually undergoes a natural fermentation process that makes it fit for consumption. Perfumers alcohol contains denatured ethanol, isopropyl myristate and monopropylene glycol. The composition facilitates fast absorption of the concentrated fragrance oil and evaporation of the alcohol. Thus, perfumers’ alcohol cannot be consumed for intoxication, orally, topically, or otherwise. Its only purpose is to improve the performance of commercial fragrances. Hence, perfumes are considered halal.
Hand sanitizers and rubbing alcohol are also allowed since they serve a medical purpose. Some scholars maintain that if alternatives are available, it is better to avoid perfumes with higher alcohol concentration than 10-20%. Fragrance oils and perfumes with less than 5% alcohol content can always be used without any cause for concern.
Ultimately it is your choice, and you decide whether to use alcohol-based perfumes or perfume oils or attars. At SareeGuru we offer both options for our customers to choose what is best for them and aligns with their faith and values. Visit our Body Shop to see our full range.