Is it permissible for a woman to work as a barber in a country where its women do not wear the hijab, given her need for the job and her discomfort with her current job which forces her into sins such as lying and intermingling?

The questioner is advised to adhere to religion and avoid situations that incur Allah's wrath. Working as a secretary for a man is impermissible due to the ensuing seclusion and the breakdown of barriers. As for working as a hairdresser for women, there are caveats. If the questioner is compelled to work and finds no option other than these two jobs, then working as a hairdresser for women is better, provided that she adheres to Islamic guidelines, and searches for an alternative job that does not lead to what is forbidden.