The National Fatwa Council is yet to determine on whether substances used in Botox injections, commonly used for cosmetic treatment, is deemed "halal", or acceptable for use by Muslims, said the Bernama news agency. Council chair Shukor Husin said the council is still waiting for the report on Botulinum Toxin Type A, commercially known as Botox.

He said that the practice and techniques to inject Botox into the body also needed to be scrutinised to see whether it is similar to plastic surgery, which is generally prohibited in Islam.
"We understand that the substance is used for medical purposes and based on that, as of today, we stand by the principle that since it was for medical use, it is okay to use it," Shukor was quoted as saying by the Star newspaper.

Discussion

"What needs to be looked into is the scope of its use that has expanded from medical to cosmetic purposes," he said. Shukor said the fatwa on Botox would be discussed in the next meeting of the country's top religious clerics to be held in two months time. Botox, a powerful neurotoxin introduced nearly two decades ago, is widely used to cure facial problems but is best known for its cosmetic qualities in paralysing facial muscles and thus giving foreheads a relaxed, wrinkle-free appearance.