Britain’s first ‘halal’ cosmetics

LONDON - A Muslim businesswoman in Britain has launched the country’s first range of “halal” cosmetics which is free from alcohol and animal products.

Halal means any food or consumable goods that are permissible for consumption by Muslims under Shariah Islamic law. Consumption of alcohol and certain meat including pork are forbidden under the law.

British entrepreneur Samina Akhter set up Samina Pure Makeup at her home in Birmingham after questioning the ingredients of many international brand makeup products, Sky News reported.

She was shocked to find out that some of the products she used contained fatty acids and gelatin from pigs.

“As a Muslim, I was questioning what I was putting on my skin. I wanted to know whether it was permissible in Islam,” she was quoted as saying.

Akhter says her makeup products are made from plant extracts, minerals, essential oils and vitamins.

“Many Muslim women like me have been frustrated by wanting to look good and follow their faith,” she said.

“But it’s not just Muslims who back the idea, many people are unhappy at the idea of animal products.”