Oiling the hair

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

Answer

The Prophet of Allah (SAW) has said:

“Whoever has hair should look after it.” (Sunan Abu Dawud p.220 v.2)

On one occasion the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam saw a person whose hair was dishelved. The Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam remarked:   “Does he not find such a thing (oil etc.) by which he can gather / straighten his hair.” (Mishkat p.375)

In another hadith Saaiduna Abu Qatadah (RA) once asked The Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam: “I have long hair, should I comb it?” The Prophet of Allah (SAW) replied, “Yes, and look after your hair”. Hence Abu Qatadah (RA) used to sometimes apply oil twice a day (i.e. apply oil and comb it) because of the order of The Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam. (Mishkaat p. 384)

Saaiduna Anas Radiallahu Anhu reports that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam often rubbed oil on his head and also often combed his beard.  He put a cloth over his head which became like an oil cloth due to the frequent use of oil.    (Shamaail Tirmizi p.3)

Oiling the hair regularly is an effective way of stopping hair loss therefore it will be advisable to oil it before having a shower and then washing the hair with shampoo. There is not a specific dua one can recite to prevent hair loss however, it may be advisable to read Salatul Hajjah and pray to Allah for the removal of the illness.

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham