As the global Muslim community is experiencing exponential growth in both population and spending power– there is a growing demand for goods and services that meet halal consumption standards.

This has led to a significant surge in halal cosmetics– an industry which has seen remarkable innovation and expansion over the last decade.

However, in cosmetics, one ingredient often raises eyebrows and sparks debates among the Muslim community– glycerin. From your favourite lipstick to your daily moisturizer, glycerin is almost everywhere in cosmetics.

Did You Know: Glycerin is found in nearly 70% of cosmetic products on the market today.

But, is glycerin halal? This question is of significant importance for millions of Muslims worldwide who strive to live a halal lifestyle.

Let’s take a closer look at what glycerin is, before addressing its halal nature:

Glycerin in Cosmetics

Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a simple polyol compound. It’s a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting and non-toxic. Glycerin is a byproduct of three main processes– fat and oil splitting, biodiesel production, and soap making.

​​Here’s how glycerin benefits skincare:

• Hydration: It draws water from the environment and locks it into the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.
• Barrier Function: It strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, preventing moisture loss.
• Softening: Glycerin softens rough patches and soothes dry skin.

Is Glycerin Halal?

The halal status of glycerin depends on its source and method of extraction. For glycerin to be halal, it should:

• Be derived from plant sources. This includes glycerin obtained from vegetable oils or other plant-based materials.
• Be produced synthetically in laboratories, as that does not involve the integration of any animal-derived ingredients.

On the other hand, glycerin is not halal if it is:

• Obtained from non-halal animal sources. This includes glycerin extracted from animal fat, especially from non-Halal animals. It is essential to verify the source of glycerin to ensure it meets Halal requirements.

Read More: The Rise of Halal Cosmetics

5 Things You Need to Check to Verify Halal Cosmetics

Ensuring the halal nature of cosmetics is crucial for Muslims. Here are 5 essential things that need to be considered when verifying halal cosmetics:

1. Halal Certification Logo

The simplest method to verify the halal nature of cosmetics is to check for the halal certification logo on cosmetic products.

Look for logos or labels from reputable Halal certification bodies. These symbols ensure that the entire product, including glycerin, adheres to halal standards.

2. Source of Glycerin

The first step in verifying Halal cosmetics is to determine the source of glycerin. As highlighted earlier, there are three main categories of glycerin:

• Plant-Based Glycerin: Derived from vegetable oils (such as palm, coconut, or soybean), plant-based glycerin is generally considered Halal. Look for products explicitly labeled as plant-based glycerin.
• Animal-Based Glycerin: This type of glycerin is extracted from animal fats. If the animal source is Halal (such as cows or chickens slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines), the glycerin is permissible. However, if it comes from non-Halal animals (eg: pigs), it is Haram (forbidden).
• Synthetic Glycerin: Produced in laboratories, synthetic glycerin is halal because it does not involve animal-derived ingredients.

3. Cross-Contamination

Manufacturing facilities often handle both halal and non-halal ingredients. Cross-contamination can occur during production, packaging, or storage. To verify halal cosmetics, try and inquire about the facility’s practices if possible.

4. Alcohol Content

Glycerin itself is alcohol-free, but some cosmetics contain alcohol-based preservatives or fragrances. Check the ingredient list for any alcohol derivatives. Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is commonly used in cosmetics.

If it is derived from halal sources (such as fermented grains), the product remains Halal. However, if it comes from non-halal sources (e.g., wine or other intoxicants), it renders the entire product Haram.

5. Ethical and Sustainable Practices

Halal cosmetic brands often go beyond religious guidelines. Consider brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. Look for cruelty-free, vegan, and eco-friendly certifications. Supporting companies that align with your values ensures a holistic approach to conscious consumerism.

Read More: Halal Certification for Cosmetics & Personal Care

Halal Certification Process for Cosmetics

The halal certification process for cosmetics, particularly through the American Halal Foundation (AHF), is a comprehensive procedure designed to ensure that products meet strict Islamic consumption standards.

Here’s the step-by-step halal certification process for cosmetics at AHF:

Step 1. Application Submission

The process begins with the manufacturer submitting an application to the AHF. This application includes detailed information about the company, the products for which halal certification is sought, and comprehensive lists of ingredients, suppliers, and manufacturing processes.

Step 2. Initial Review and Assessment

Upon receiving the application, the AHF conducts an initial review to assess the product’s eligibility for Halal certification. This review involves scrutinizing the ingredients and their sources, manufacturing processes, and any potential cross-contamination risks.

3. Audit and Inspection

If the initial review is successful, AHF schedules an audit and inspection of the manufacturing facility. This step is critical to verify the information provided in the application and to assess the facility’s adherence to Halal standards.

4. Issuance of Halal Certificate

Following a successful audit, AHF issues a halal certificate for the product(s) tested. This certificate serves as official documentation that the product meets all the necessary Halal standards and is permissible for Muslim consumers. The certificate typically has a validity period, after which it must be renewed, often requiring a new audit.

5. Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring

Halal certification is not a one-time event. The AHF requires ongoing compliance with Halal standards and conducts periodic audits to ensure continued adherence. Manufacturers must maintain their commitment to Halal principles in their sourcing, production, and handling processes.

Read More: Detailed Halal Certification Process at AHF

Future of Halal Cosmetics

The future of Halal cosmetics is poised for significant growth and transformation, driven by a combination of factors including the increasing global Muslim population, rising awareness of halal ethical consumerism. Here’s a glimpse into what the future holds for Halal cosmetics:

1. Wider Adoption and Mainstream Appeal

Halal cosmetics are moving beyond niche markets to gain mainstream acceptance. As awareness grows, non-Muslim consumers are also showing interest in halal-certified products due to their emphasis on ethical sourcing, animal welfare, and avoidance of harmful chemicals.

2. Innovation and Product Expansion

The demand for halal-certified products is encouraging cosmetic companies to innovate and expand their product ranges. This includes developing new formulations that meet halal standards without compromising on quality or performance.

3. Global Expansion

While the demand for halal cosmetics is currently concentrated in Muslim-majority countries and regions with significant Muslim populations, the future will likely see global expansion. With the rise of e-commerce and global shipping, halal cosmetic brands have the opportunity to reach a worldwide audience, further driving growth and innovation in the industry.

Wrapping Up

As interest in halal cosmetics continues to rise, understanding what makes cosmetic products halal is becoming increasingly important for modern Muslim consumers.

The halal certification process, particularly from a well-recognized provider– can offer a layer of assurance for the growing number of Muslim consumers seeking halal cosmetics.

Get in touch with the American Halal Foundation (AHF) to learn more about the halal certification requirements for cosmetics.