Botox Injections: A Permissibility Question in Islam in Dubai UAE ?

The use of Botox injections, especially for cosmetic purposes, is a subject of ongoing debate among Islamic scholars (fuqaha') in Dubai. In this cosmopolitan city with a significant Muslim population and advanced medical facilities, understanding the diverse opinions of jurists is essential for individuals looking to align their choices with Islamic ethical principles.

Central to the discussion are key Islamic principles:

1. The Principle of Changing Allah's Creation (Taghyir Khalqillah):

This principle is at the core of the debate. The Quran (4:119) mentions Satan's vow to "command them so they will change the creation of Allah." Several Hadith, like the one narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (RA) in Sahih Bukhari and Muslim & Botox in Dubai UAE , condemn actions like tattooing, plucking eyebrows, and creating spaces between teeth for beauty, stating they are "changing what Allah has created."

Juristic Interpretations:

- Strict View: Some jurists interpret this prohibition broadly, considering any elective cosmetic procedure, including Botox for wrinkle reduction, as altering the natural features of the body for mere aesthetic enhancement. They emphasize contentment with one's natural appearance.

- More Lenient/Conditional View: Other contemporary scholars offer a nuanced perspective, distinguishing between permanent and temporary alterations. They argue that temporary changes like Botox, with effects lasting a few months, do not fundamentally alter Allah's creation. The Indonesian Council of Ulama (MUI) Fatwa No. 21 of 2020 permits Botox under specific conditions.

2. The Principle of Necessity and Alleviating Harm:

Islamic law values preserving health and correcting defects. There is a consensus among scholars that Botox is permissible when used for medical necessity or to correct physical defects.

Application:

Botox can be used to treat conditions like chronic migraines, severe muscle spasms, excessive sweating, or correct facial asymmetry due to injury or birth defects.

3. The Principle of Purity of Ingredients:

Historically, jurists were concerned about the presence of haram ingredients in Botox. However, with the availability of halal-certified products, this concern has been addressed.

Contemporary Stance:

Jurists emphasize the importance of using halal-certified Botox products to ensure ingredient purity.

4. Other Ethical Considerations:

Jurists caution against using Botox to deceive others or excessive vanity. Islam promotes moderation and inner beauty over outward appearance.

In Dubai, Islamic jurists generally align with global scholarly debates. Emphasis is placed on halal certification, safety regulations, and professional competence when considering cosmetic procedures.

Conclusion:

Islamic jurists differentiate between medical/corrective use and cosmetic anti-aging purposes. While there is consensus on the permissibility of Botox for medical reasons, opinions vary on cosmetic use. Muslims in Dubai are advised to prioritize clinics offering halal-certified products and consider their intentions and consultations with religious scholars when deciding on Botox treatments for wrinkles.