Hair-Building Fibers in Islam: Permissibility and Guidelines
Question: To make hair appear thicker and fuller, hair-building fibers are used. These are small particles made from synthetic or natural materials that help fill in weak or thin areas by coloring them. They are used only on parts where hair is thin, making the scalp visible. Most people use them to cover thin or bald spots. These fibers temporarily make hair look fuller and thicker but are not a permanent solution. They need to be reapplied after rain, sweating, or washing the hair. Hair-building fibers are available in various colors to match natural hair colors, including black, brown, gray, and blonde. Is it permissible to color the hair with such colors?
Answer: It is not permissible for a Muslim man or woman to use black spray, black dye, or black color on their hair. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) forbade using black color on the hair and beard. Jabir bin Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
"On the day of the conquest of Mecca, Abu Quhafah was brought, and his head and beard were white like Thaghamah (a plant with white flowers). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'Change this with something, but avoid black.'" (Sahih Muslim: 2102)
This hadith clearly shows that the Prophet (peace be upon him) prohibited Abu Quhafah (may Allah be pleased with him) from using black dye on his hair and beard. Therefore, it is not permissible for anyone to use black color to dye their hair, cover thin hair, or hide bald spots. However, any other color or fibers can be used to dye the hair, make it appear thicker, or temporarily cover bald spots, as long as black color is avoided.
Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (Hafizahullah)
❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫
Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (Hafizahullah)