The Veracious Construal of Halal Cosmetic Products and its Relation to Taharah (Cleanliness) and Nadhafah (Hygiene and Sanitation) in Islam

Abstract

Cosmeticology is the science of cosmetics and related products; hence, cosmetic refers to any preparation applied to any parts of the human body with the intention of beautification, enhancing its performance, or appraising its functions. Therefore, cosmetic is directly related to the physical and emotional health as well as conditions of human skin and body. While the experience and the knowledge of the cosmeticologists and dermatologists are vital in cosmetic use and its production, it is equally imperative to evaluate cosmetic products from the perspective of human life and values. Thus, cosmetic activities are related to our faith, dignity and spirituality as the halalness, hygiene and purity of what is consumed are part of human values. The objective of this research is to provide accurate conception of halal cosmetic products as well as to redefine the idea of cleanliness in line with the current circumstances of human economic activities. On the theoretical concept of the research, the theoretical apparatus of this paper is to link taharah (cleanliness) to nadhafah (hygiene and sanitation) so as to present taharah as part of both physical and spiritual aspects of the human. It is unfortunate that in the current conception of a Muslim taharah is presented as it has to do with religiosity and place of worship; this conception of taharah eliminates the concepts of nadhafah (hygiene and sanitation). The idea is that if one is wearing the same dress for five conservative days without a contact of filth (najis) it is considered in Islam tahir (clean). On the contrary, the paper suggests that if something lacks hygiene i. e. it smells or tastes bad or hazardous, be it place, dress or food it automatically becomes unhygienic to human and subsequently should be considered harmful regardless of whether or not it had any contact with filth (najis). Therefore, both taharah and nadhafah are directly related to halal.The research refers to the original sources of Islam including the Qur’an and the Hadith of the Prophet. Research questions include what is the constituent of halal and taharah (cleanliness) in relation to cosmetic products? To accomplish this research, library based methodology will be employed. With this methodology we will evaluate the available resources to determine the corollary of the issue at hand. The significance of this research lies in the fact that it reevaluates the quasi-laws of Islam which govern cosmetic products and its relevance to heath, hygiene and faith. The researcher is of the opinion that, this work will help the industry players, individuals and business communities.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n6s1p266