Is using perfume with alcohol haram?

Perfume is loved by many, and in fact, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself loved good fragrance. However, many Muslims question whether using perfumes that contain alcohol is permissible in Islam. This article aims to clarify this issue by looking at what Islamic scholars have said on the matter. The Concern About Alcohol The concern stems from the fact that some perfumes contain ethanol or similar types of alcohol, which are also found in intoxicating beverages. Since intoxicants are clearly haram (forbidden) in Islam, as stated in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:90): "O you who believe! Intoxicants, gambling, sacrificing to stones, and divination by arrows are an abomination of Satan’s handiwork. Avoid them so that you may be successful." It is understandable that some Muslims feel unsure about using alcohol-based products, including perfumes. Not All Alcohol Is the Same Islamic scholars distinguish between alcohol used for drinking and alcohol used for other purposes. Most perfumes use denatured alcohol or ethanol, which is not meant for consumption and often mixed with chemicals that make it undrinkable. The majority of contemporary scholars and fatwa councils, including those from Al-Azhar, Dar al-Ifta Egypt, and the Islamic Fiqh Council, have stated that perfume with non-intoxicating alcohol is permissible, as it does not fall under the same category as khamr (wine or intoxicants). Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali Views Hanafi scholars are generally more cautious and may recommend avoiding it, but even among them, modern opinions are more flexible. Maliki and Hanbali scholars tend to allow it unless the alcohol is derived directly from wine (khamr). Shafi'i scholars also consider the intention and usage—if it's not for intoxication, it’s not haram. Conclusion Using perfumes that contain non-intoxicating alcohol is not haram in most scholarly opinions. Islam values cleanliness and fragrance, especially for prayer and social interaction. As long as the alcohol used in the perfume is not consumed or intended to intoxicate, it is permissible (halal) to use. However, if someone feels uncomfortable or wants to avoid it out of piety, they can choose alcohol-free perfumes, which are now widely available in the market. This article is written by Md. Ahasan Habib. He is the founder of Islampidia.org. A platform dedicated to spreading Islamic knowledge. Focused on making complex topics simple for readers. May Allah increase us all in beneficial knowledge. Ameen.