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What is the ruling on using cosmetic materials for men, such as putting cream on the skin to beautify it (to whiten the skin)? Is that permissible? Because using cosmetics for men is something that is very widespread in the subcontinent.
Praise be to Allah.
The ruling on men using cosmetics such as creams and so on varies from one case to another. To explain further:
It should also be noted that using these types of cosmetics is not appropriate for men, as stated above.
Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymin (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked:
What is the ruling on using creams and preparations to whiten the skin or to remove acne or other blemishes?
He replied:
“With regard to the former, then no; that is, you should not use anything to change the colour of the skin , because this is worse than tattooing for which the one who does it is cursed.
With regard to removing acne and the like, there is nothing wrong with that, because this is treating disease , and there is nothing wrong with treating disease. There is a difference between that which is intended for the purpose of beautification and that which is intended for the purpose of removing a defect. The former is not permissible if it is done permanently, whereas the latter is permissible." (Fatawa Nur `Ala Ad-Darb, 22/2)
It should also be pointed out that whatever of such preparations is made from impure substances or harmful chemical substances, it is not permissible to use it in any case whatsoever.
And Allah knows best.