Q: Are the following permissible in the state of Ihram:
1. Toothpaste
2. Scented/unscented oil, soap, shampoo, etc
3. Chewing gum (flavoured or unflavoured)
4. Food with a nice smell
5. Applying creams or lotion on the body.
A:
1. Avoid using toothpaste, as it contains some form of fragrance. One may use a miswaak or a toothbrush without toothpaste.
2. Refrain from applying scented or unscented oil to the head or body in the state of ihraam. Similarly refrain from using scented soap and shampoo in the state of ihraam. For further details refer to http://muftionline.co.za/node/19818
3. If it has a sweet fragrance, refrain from it.
4. Some foods have a natural sweet smell that is left in the mouth after consuming it e.g. a mandarin. It is permissible to consume this type of foods. However, if the foods contain fragrance within them, and the food is not cooked, it will not be permissible to consume such foods or drinks in the state of ihraam. If the foods contain fragrance in them, but are cooked with the fragrance, then if the fragrance is not perceived, it will be permissible to consume it and if it is perceived, then it is makrooh. We have prepared a detailed fatwa in regard to the law of consuming foods in the state of ihraam. You may refer to the fatwa http://muftionline.co.za/node/19823
5. If it has a fragrance, one should refrain from applying such lotion.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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