As awareness grows among Muslim consumers, halal beauty products are becoming more sought-after in Pakistan. But while many brands label themselves as “halal,” few people truly understand what that means. Is it just about being alcohol-free? Is cruelty-free the same as halal? And which makeup brands available in Pakistan are actually certified halal? In this article, we’ll break down what halal makeup really is, how to identify authentic halal-certified cosmetics, and highlight some of the trusted halal makeup brands that you can buy in Pakistan.
What Does “Halal” Mean in Cosmetics?
In cosmetics, halal refers to products that are permissible under Islamic law. This goes beyond just being alcohol-free or cruelty-free. A truly halal-certified product meets all the following conditions:
- Does not contain any haram ingredients such as pig fat (lard), gelatin, or certain types of alcohol
- Is free from harmful or intoxicating substances
- Is not tested on animals in cruel ways
- Has been produced, processed, and packaged under Shariah-compliant guidelines
Unlike terms like “vegan” or “natural,” the word “halal” has specific religious significance, and misuse of this term can mislead consumers.
Why Halal Certification Matters
Many international and local brands use the word “halal” in marketing without undergoing proper certification. A halal certification is issued by a recognized halal authority, ensuring that the entire supply chain complies with Islamic standards.
Some of the globally accepted halal certification bodies include:
- Halal Certification Services (Switzerland)
- The Central Islamic Committee of Thailand
- Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI)
- JAKIM (Malaysia)
- SANHA (South Africa)
For a Pakistani brand or imported product to be genuinely halal, it should be certified by one of these or an equivalent body recognized by halal standards.
Common Misconceptions About Halal Makeup
- Cruelty-Free ≠ Halal
While cruelty-free means no animal testing, it doesn’t guarantee that the ingredients are halal. A product can be cruelty-free and still contain non-halal ingredients. - Alcohol-Free ≠ Halal
Not all types of alcohol are haram in cosmetics. Some forms like denatured alcohol or cetyl alcohol are permissible under certain conditions, as they are not intoxicating. - Made in a Muslim Country ≠ Automatically Halal
Just because a product is made in a Muslim-majority country doesn’t mean it’s certified halal. Certification is a formal process.
Halal-Certified Makeup Brands Available in Pakistan
Here are some trusted brands that offer halal-certified makeup and are available online or in major cities across Pakistan:
1. Iba Halal Care (India)
One of the most widely recognized halal-certified beauty brands. Their products are certified by ICRAC (India). Offers lipsticks, foundations, BB creams, and more.
Available on: Pakistani beauty stores online (e.g., Bagallery, Daraz)
2. PHB Ethical Beauty (UK)
Certified halal, vegan, and cruelty-free. Known for high-quality organic ingredients and a wide range of makeup products.
Available via international shipping or local resellers.
3. Zahara Cosmetics (Singapore)
This brand focuses on Muslim women, offering water-permeable nail polish, halal lipsticks, and eyeshadow palettes.
Niche but growing availability in Pakistan through online platforms.
4. Tuesday in Love (Canada)
Famous for its certified halal water-permeable nail polish. Also offers halal makeup for sensitive skin.
Available via global shipping to Pakistan.
5. Clara International (Malaysia)
JAKIM-certified, with a strong focus on halal skincare and cosmetic solutions.
Some distributors operate in Karachi and Lahore.
What About Pakistani Brands?
While many local makeup brands claim to be halal, very few have formal certification from a globally recognized halal authority.
Brands like Luscious Cosmetics and Medora of London claim to use halal ingredients and are widely used in Pakistan, but as of now, they are not officially halal-certified by international bodies.
Consumers are advised to read ingredient labels carefully and contact the brand directly if halal compliance is essential to them.
How to Check If a Product is Truly Halal
Here’s how to verify the halal status of a makeup product:
- Look for a visible halal certification logo on the packaging
- Visit the brand’s website and check their certification details
- Cross-check the certifying authority to ensure it is internationally recognized
- If unsure, email the company and ask for their halal compliance policy
Water-Permeable Nail Polish – A Key Concern
One of the most talked-about innovations in halal beauty is water-permeable nail polish, which allows water to reach the nail bed—important for wudu (ablution). Brands like Tuesday in Love and Maya Cosmetics claim to offer verified breathable nail polish. However, some local brands offer similar products without lab testing, so authenticity should be verified.
Final Thoughts
The demand for halal-certified makeup in Pakistan is rising as consumers become more informed and religiously conscious. But not all products marketed as “halal” truly meet the standards of halal certification. As a consumer, it’s important to do your research, understand what halal really means in the cosmetics industry, and choose products that are certified by recognized halal authorities.