Kohl Eyeliner: The Sunnah, the Benefits, and How to Apply It
By Noor East Health & Wellness Team | Pro Tips Blog
Quick Answer
What is kohl eyeliner and is it a Sunnah?
- ✓ Yes. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used ithmid kohl and recommended it for eye health
- ✓ Authentic kohl is made from ithmid (antimony stone), not synthetic chemicals
- ✓ Reported to strengthen eyesight, promote eyelash growth, and protect against eye conditions
- ✓ Halal and alcohol-free, suitable for men and women
- ✓ Applied with a thin stick (mirwad) along the inner rim of the eye
Kohl is one of the oldest beauty and health traditions in the Islamic world. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used kohl regularly and specifically recommended ithmid (the antimony stone) as the best type. Authentic kohl is a very different product from the synthetic "kohl" eyeliners sold in most UK chemists, which are simply black cosmetic pencils given a traditional-sounding name. Real kohl is a finely ground mineral powder with documented properties that go beyond aesthetics.
In this article
What Is Authentic Kohl (Ithmid)?
Authentic kohl is made from ithmid, a naturally occurring mineral ore (antimony sulphide) found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly around Isfahan (Asfahani) and in Yemen. The stone is mined, dried, and ground to an extremely fine powder. This powder is what is placed on a mirwad (a thin metal or wooden stick) and applied to the eyes.
Modern kohl products available at Noor East combine this traditional ithmid powder with additional beneficial ingredients. Asfahani Ithmid Kohl adds zamzam water and rose water to the formulation, enhancing hydration and adding a soothing effect on application.
100% natural ithmid with zamzam water and rose water. Includes mirwad applicator. Halal and Sunnah.
What Do the Hadith Say About Kohl?
Ibn Abbas (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: "The best of your kohl is ithmid, for it clears the vision and makes the hair (eyelashes) grow." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3497.) Another narration in Sahih al-Bukhari records that the Prophet (SAW) used kohl in his right eye three times and his left eye three times before sleeping, demonstrating a specific Sunnah practice.
What Are the Benefits of Kohl for the Eyes?
The prophetic narrations specifically mention two benefits: clearing the vision and promoting eyelash growth. Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2013) notes that traditional ithmid kohl preparations have documented antimicrobial properties and have been used historically to treat eye infections and inflammation.
The practical benefits reported by regular kohl users include: strengthening and darkening eyelashes over extended use, reducing sensitivity to bright light, providing a natural antimicrobial barrier along the lash line, and a cooling, soothing sensation on application, particularly in formulations containing rose water and zamzam.
How to Apply Kohl Correctly
- Prepare the mirwad. Dip the thin applicator stick into the kohl jar and allow it to coat evenly. Remove excess so the stick is coated but not overloaded.
- Apply to the inner rim. Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger. Place the mirwad on the inner rim (the waterline) of the lower eyelid. Close your eye slightly and draw the stick slowly across the lower waterline from the inner corner outward.
- Repeat for the upper waterline. Lift the upper eyelid slightly and apply along the upper waterline in the same way.
- Blink to settle. Blink several times after application to distribute the kohl evenly.
- Prophetic practice: 3 applications per eye. The Sunnah narrations describe applying the mirwad three times to each eye for fuller coverage.
Authentic ithmid kohl sourced and made in Madinah. Enriched with zamzam water and rose water.
How to Tell Real Kohl from Synthetic Eyeliner
Real ithmid kohl is a loose or semi-loose very fine grey-black mineral powder, packaged in a small jar with a mirwad (stick) applicator. It is not a pencil, a gel, or a liquid. The colour is a characteristic slightly warm grey-black, because it comes from a mineral rather than a synthetic pigment.
Fake or low-quality "kohl" is simply a black cosmetic pencil or pot with the word kohl on the label. Some low-quality imported kohl products have in the past been found to contain high levels of lead compounds. Choose kohl from reputable brands with known formulations, like Asfahani or Al-Asmad, sold by trusted retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can men use kohl?
Yes. The prophetic narrations about kohl are not gender-specific. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used kohl, and male scholars and traditional physicians across the Islamic world have consistently classified kohl as appropriate for men as both a health practice and a Sunnah.
Is kohl safe to use during pregnancy?
Pure ithmid kohl is generally considered safe. However, during pregnancy, choose a reputable, tested product like Asfahani or Al-Asmad, and consult your midwife or doctor if you have concerns.
Does kohl smudge during the day?
Ithmid kohl applied to the waterline does tend to subtly migrate over several hours, creating a naturally smudged effect. This is considered part of its traditional aesthetic.
Can kohl be used for wudu (ablution)?
Kohl applied to the waterline or lash line does not invalidate wudu according to the majority of scholarly opinion, as it is not on the outer skin surface that must be washed. Consult your trusted scholar if you have specific questions.
Authentic Ithmid Kohl, Delivered to Your Door
Natural kohl with zamzam water. Halal, Sunnah, and alcohol-free. Available at Noor East.
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