Cleanliness and pleasant fragrance are deeply embedded in Islamic etiquette. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ loved good scent and maintained high standards of personal hygiene. He said:
"Allah is Beautiful and loves beauty."
— Sahih Muslim (91)
Wearing perfume (especially for men) is a Sunnah, particularly on Fridays, Eid, during Hajj, and before prayers. Aisha (RA) said:
"I used to perfume the Messenger of Allah ﷺ with the best perfume I could find..."
— Sahih al-Bukhari (5923)
For women, perfume is permitted at home and in front of mahrams, but they are discouraged from wearing it in public where it attracts attention. The Prophet ﷺ warned:
"Any woman who applies perfume and passes by people so they can smell her fragrance is an adulteress."
— Sunan an-Nasa'i (5126)
The Sahaba were known for their love of good scent. Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) never entered the masjid without applying perfume. The Prophet ﷺ himself loved three things: women, perfume, and prayer (Musnad Ahmad).
Islam connects external purity to inner piety. Using perfume and maintaining cleanliness reflects the believer's respect for others, self-care, and gratitude to Allah for the body and senses gifted to them.