Is it permissible for a woman to describe the beauty of another woman to her husband, or her ugliness? And is it forbidden for a husband to describe a man to his wife?

It is not permissible for a woman to describe the virtues of another woman to her husband or to other men, based on the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "A woman should not touch another woman, then describe her to her husband, as if he is looking at her." The wisdom behind this prohibition is the fear of temptation by the described woman or the divorce of the wife.

As for describing the ugliness of someone, it is backbiting (gheebah) and is forbidden, unless there is a legitimate need for it, such as in the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) advice to Fatimah bint Qays.

It is also forbidden to praise a man in front of women if it leads to them being infatuated with him, as a preventative measure.