Can Women Wear Perfume
📖Sunan an-Nasa’i 5118
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that:
The Prophet [SAW] said: “The perfume for men is that whose scent is apparent while its color is hidden, and the perfume for women is that whose color is apparent, while its scent is hidden.”
This hadith from Sunan an-Nasa’i 5118, narrated by Abu Hurairah, conveys a teaching of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding perfume or fragrance. It emphasizes a cultural and modest approach to the use of fragrance:
- For men, the preferred perfume is one whose scent is noticeable but not its color. This means that men can use fragrances that have a pleasant aroma but are not visually striking or attention-grabbing.
- For women, the preferred perfume is one whose color is noticeable but not its scent. This suggests that women can use fragrances that may have a visible presence, like colorful oils or cosmetics, but their fragrance should not be strong or overpowering.
Why Are Women Advised to Wear Perfume with a Hidden Scent?
Researchers in fields such as psychology, biology, and sociology have conducted numerous studies and experiments to better understand the mechanisms and factors involved in sexual attraction, Sexual attraction is attraction on the basis of sexual desire or the quality of arousing such interest. Sexual attractiveness or sex appeal is an individual’s ability to attract other people sexually, and is a factor in sexual selection or mate choice. The attraction can be to the physical or other qualities or traits of a person, or to such qualities in the context where they appear. The attraction may be to a person’s aesthetics, movements, voice, or smell, among other things. The attraction may be enhanced by a person’s adornments, clothing, perfume or style. It can be influenced by individual genetic, psychological, or cultural factors, or to other, more amorphous qualities. Sexual attraction is also a response to another person that depends on a combination of the person possessing the traits and on the criteria of the person who is attracted.
Reference: Sexual Attraction
📖Sunan an-Nasa’i 5126
It was narrated that Al-Ash’ari said: The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: ‘Any woman who puts on perfume 👉then passes by people so that they can smell her fragrance👈🏻 then she is an adulteress.’
This hadith addresses the act of a woman wearing perfume with the intention of making others aware of her fragrance. The underlying issue in this context is not the perfume itself, but the intention behind wearing it. If a woman wears perfume with the conscious aim to attract others’ attention or provoke sexual thoughts, it is seen as an act of immorality, akin to adultery. The key point is the intent behind the use of perfume. If the woman wears it solely for personal enjoyment, without an intention to make others notice her or evoke sexual thoughts, then it is not considered adultery. However, if the intention is to impress others or draw attention to herself in a provocative manner, it is perceived as sinful, as it may lead others to associate her with illicit thoughts or desires. This aligns with the research that shows perfume can influence sexual attraction, suggesting that the woman who consciously aims to entice others is complicit in this act. Thus, both the intentionality and the effect of the perfume play a significant role in determining whether the act is considered as adultery in this context.
📖Matthew 5:28
But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Here, Jesus emphasizes that lustful thoughts alone are considered sinful, equating them to the act of adultery. This suggests that simply looking at someone with lustful intentions is already a form of wrongdoing in the heart. Similarly, when it comes to the use of perfume, the intention behind wearing it plays a key role. While looking at someone lustfully requires direct action from the person gazing, wearing perfume operates differently. A person who wears perfume with the intention of others smelling it is leading them to become aware of the fragrance, potentially stirring lustful thoughts in others. In this sense, the wearer is indirectly inviting others to have those thoughts, much like how a lustful gaze is considered to provoke adultery in the heart. Therefore, just as lustful intentions with a gaze lead to sin, the act of wearing perfume with the intent to make others smell it can be seen as leading others into sinful thoughts.
Can Women Wear Perfume If Its Scent Is Detectable?
Yes, women can still wear perfume even if its scent is noticeable, but it is not recommended. Would someone knowingly wear something that could make others think about sexual activity? If not, then it is up to the woman. Islam does not directly state that women cannot wear perfume, but it is confirmed that it is not encouraged. I have included research references to support this. However, many people may still wear perfume simply because they love it. If someone chooses to do so, only God knows what is in their heart. It is recommended to avoid it, but there is no reference stating that wearing noticeable perfume will lead to punishment. In the Qur’an, God mentions that He forgives lesser sins, and this falls under that category—it is not a major sin. Ultimately, it is up to the woman. A good person always tries to avoid things that might lead others to have negative thoughts. However, if someone loves wearing noticable perfume and finds it difficult to stop, it will not lead them to Hell or any punishment, as God has already stated that He forgives lesser sins.
📖Sunan an-Nasa’i 5334
Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu’minin: We were proceeding to Mecca along with the Prophet (ﷺ). We pasted on our foreheads the perfume known as sukk at the time of wearing ihram. When one of us perspired, it (the perfume) came down on her face. The Prophet (ﷺ) saw it but did not forbid it.
📖Quran 4:31
If you avoid the major sins which you are forbidden, We will remove from you your lesser sins and admit you to a noble entrance [into Paradise]
In Islam, certain guidelines are not imposed as rigid laws but are based on evidence and wisdom to prevent temptation (fitnah) and protect modesty. These rules apply to both men and women, ensuring that neither gender causes unnecessary attraction or negative thoughts in society.
1. Why These Guidelines Exist?
Islamic teachings recognize human nature and the potential consequences of actions. Some behaviors, clothing styles, or adornments can lead to:
- Temptation (Fitnah) – Unintended attraction that may lead to sinful actions.
- Negative Perceptions – People may misunderstand or misjudge intentions.
- Preserving Modesty – Modesty is a core value in Islam for both men and women.
2. Restrictions for Men
🔹 Wearing gold and silk is forbidden for men to maintain simplicity. (Sunan Abu Dawood 4057)
🔹 Wearing garments below the ankles out of arrogance is condemned. (Sahih Muslim 2085), But it is allowed if not done out of arrogance. (Sahih al-Bukhari 3665)
🔹 Imitating women in dress or behavior is strongly discouraged. (Sahih al-Bukhari 5885)
4. The Balance in Islamic Teachings
Islam does not impose unnecessary hardships but provides practical guidelines to prevent harm before it happens. The intention behind these rules is to protect dignity, foster respect, and ensure a balanced society where both men and women fulfill their roles without leading each other into temptation.