What is the ruling on permanently removing thick, excess facial hair if it resembles men's hair, and is there any medical harm in removing it?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The basic principle is that it is not permissible for a woman to remove facial hair, as it is considered namṣ (plucking), which is forbidden. However, if it reaches a degree that disfigures her appearance, then it is permissible to remove it or remove the excess of it, to alleviate harm and hardship. As for permanent removal, this should be referred to a knowledgeable doctor; if he determines it to be harmful, it should be avoided, but if there is no harm in it, then there is no objection.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/46165
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 46165
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy