Is it possible to fulfill the Sunnah of applying kohl with the intention of using regular kohl, in the event that authentic ithmid is unavailable?
Scholars have differed regarding the ruling on applying kohl for men. The Shafi'is and Hanbalis considered it desirable (mustahabb). The Malikis permitted it in one opinion and disliked it in another due to its resemblance to women's adornment. As for applying kohl with ithmid (antimony), it is stated in Al-Fawākih Ad-Dawānī that it is an adornment for women, thus permissible for them and forbidden for men unless for necessity. However, Malik, in a narration by Ibn Nafi', indicated that it is not a common practice among people, nor did he hear any prohibition concerning it. The Hanafis considered it permissible for men. Texts have been narrated that favor applying kohl with ithmid, such as the hadith, "Indeed, the best of your kohls is ithmid; it clears the eyesight and grows hair." And whoever does not find ithmid and applies kohl with something else, he has still attained the sunnah of applying kohl.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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