Scholars Differ
Is it true that women cannot shape or pluck their eyebrows?
Short Answer
The majority of scholars consider removing eyebrow hair prohibited based on hadith, though some allow cleaning stray hairs.
Detailed Explanation
There is a specific hadith cursing those who practice al-nams (plucking eyebrows). The majority interpret this as a prohibition on thinning or reshaping the eyebrows for beautification.
However, some scholars differentiate between "shaping" (changing the natural arch) and "cleaning" (removing unibrows or stray hairs that look abnormal). Removing hair between the eyebrows or "defect" hairs is permitted by many.
Evidence
- hadith
The Prophet (peace be upon him) cursed the women who pluck eyebrows and those who have them plucked
Sahih al-Bukhari #5931
Common Misconception
That all facial hair removal is haram. The prohibition is specific to eyebrows.
Practical Advice
It is safer to avoid thinning or shaping. If you have a unibrow or abnormal hair that causes embarrassment, consult a scholar about removing just that.
This content is for educational guidance only and does not constitute a fatwa (legal ruling). Islamic rulings can vary based on your school of thought and local context. We recommend consulting a local scholar you trust for personal advice.