What is the ruling on softening the beard using chemical substances and hot hair straighteners?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
It is forbidden to shave or shorten the beard, due to the command to let it grow. If softening the beard does not harm the skin, does not lead to its shortening, and is free from extravagance, then there is no harm in it. It should be known that excessive attention to hair, styling it, and oiling it is blameworthy, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, forbade much of "irfāh" (indulgence). Thus, excessive indulgence is blameworthy, while cleanliness and good appearance are مطلوب (desired) without extravagance. A man should not be preoccupied with styling his hair and beard and focusing on his appearance.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/9329
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 9329
- 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