Many Muslims love taking care of their appearance, and Islam encourages neatness, cleanliness, and self-respect. But when it comes to
Many Muslims love taking care of their appearance, and Islam encourages neatness, cleanliness, and self-respect. But when it comes to dyeing hair pure black, many people wonder: Why do scholars say it is not allowed?
The topic may seem small, but it carries deep wisdom from the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Let’s understand this ruling in a simple and clear way, insha’Allah.
Islam Encourages Good Appearance
Before anything, Islam does encourage looking presentable. The Prophet ﷺ loved cleanliness, neat clothes, combed hair, and good fragrance.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Take your adornment at every place of prayer.” (Surah Al-A‘raf 7:31)
This means Muslims should look good, but always in a way that follows Islamic manners.
So dyeing hair is not Haram in itself — the issue is specifically with colouring it pure black.
What Did the Prophet ﷺ Say?
There is a very clear hadith regarding black hair dye. When the Prophet ﷺ saw the father of Abu Bakr (RA) with completely white hair, he advised:
“Change this white hair, but avoid black.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This hadith is the main evidence scholars use. The instruction is gentle but direct — avoid pure black.
Why Is Pure Black Not Allowed?
Islamic scholars explain four main reasons:
1. Black Dye Can Be Deceiving
Using black dye mainly gives the impression of being much younger than a person truly is. Islam forbids deception — whether in business, relationships, or appearance.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever deceives us is not one of us.” (Sahih Muslim)
Dyeing hair black to appear younger in marriage proposals, business, or social settings can fall under this prohibited type of deception.
2. Black Dye Was Prohibited in Hadith
The hadith is explicit: “avoid black.”
When the Prophet ﷺ forbids something without a clear reason, we trust that it contains wisdom from Allah.
3. It Imitates People in Ways Islam Avoids
Some scholars say that using pure black dye to look younger is similar to changing one’s natural aging signs, which Islam discourages unless for medical or genuine reasons.
4. It May Encourage Vanity and Pride
Islam teaches humility. Excessive focus on appearing younger or hiding natural aging may lead to pride, ego, or chasing worldly beauty in unhealthy ways.
Are All Hair Dyes Prohibited?
No. Only pure jet-black is discouraged or prohibited.
Allowed hair dyes include:
Brown
Dark brown
Reddish tones
Henna (mehendi)
Black mixed with another color so it’s not fully black
Using henna and katam (a natural plant-based dye) was common among Sahabah, and scholars say this is permissible because it doesn’t look unnaturally black.
Is It Permissible for Spouses?
Some scholars say that if a wife dyes her hair black only for her husband, and not to deceive the public, it may be allowed because it stays within the privacy of marriage.
But the stronger opinion still suggests avoiding pure black, unless it is mixed with another shade.
What About Younger People Dyeing Their Hair?
If someone is young and uses black dye — not to hide aging or deceive — some scholars say it may be allowed.
But most still encourage using other colours to avoid falling into doubtful matters.
What About Covering Grey Hair?
The Prophet ﷺ recommended colouring grey hair with natural dyes like henna or a brownish-red tone. This brings beauty while respecting the Sunnah.
Grey hair is not something to be ashamed of — the Prophet ﷺ said it is a light for the believer.
Conclusion
Dyeing hair is not haram in Islam, but pure black dye is discouraged because:
It can be deceptive
The Prophet ﷺ specifically told us to avoid it
It may encourage pride or imitation of non-Islamic practices
Islam always guides us toward honesty, purity, and dignity. If you want to dye your hair, choose colours that are natural and modest — and keep your intention pure, insha’Allah.
May Allah beautify our hearts with faith and keep us close to the Sunnah, Ameen.
Learn More About Islamic Rulings & Sunnah Practices 🌙
If you want to study Islamic manners, rulings, Sunnah habits, and Qur’an in a simple and easy way, explore Online Islamic Institute.
They offer premium Islamic courses for all ages — from beginners to advanced learners — helping you grow in faith step by step, insha’Allah.
👉 Visit: onlineislamicinstitute.org
JazakAllahu Khairan for reading. Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh. 🤍