What is the Islamic ruling on using cosmetics or what is called make-up for woman? Are some forms permissible and others impermissible? Are they permissible in certain times and places?

All perfect praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and Messenger.

It is permissible for a woman to use makeup and cosmetics, provided that she observes the following:

1.       The cosmetics should not include impure substances because it is not permissible to touch impure materials or to apply them to the skin.

2.       They should not be harmful to the body.

3.       Women should not appear in front of non-Mahram (permanently unmarriageable) men while wearing makeup.

Allaah Knows best.