Are men allowed to colour their hair at a young age of about 20?If yes what substances can men use?
In the name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful.
It is permissible for men to dye their hair using dyes that are made from halal products
Abu Huraira (RA) narrates that the Prophet of Allah (SAW) said: “The Jews and the Christians do no dye (their grey hairs), so you shall do the opposite of what they do.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, 4.668)
Abu Dharr reported that the Prophet of Allah (SAW) said, “The best thing that one can use to change the colour of grey hairs is henna and katm (a reddish dye).” (Fiqh-us-Sunnah,Vol1, 23
Similarly the permissibility of the usage of dye is stated in the books of jurisprudence Durr al-Mukhtar: “It is recommended for men to dye their hair and beard, even outside war.”
Fatawa al-Hindiyyah:“ The scholars have all unanimously agreed that it is a Sunnah for men to dye the hair of their head and beard with red colour. It is also considered a sign of Muslims.”
Although the above clearly define the permissibility for men to dye their hair, however one should refrain from the use of black dye.
It is narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas that the Prophet of Allah (SAW) said: At the end of time there will be people who will use this black dye like the crops of doves who will not experience the fragrance of Paradise. (Sunan Abu Dawood, 1965)
In conclusion it is permissible to use dye to colour the hair, however one should refrain from using black dye. Although some scholars including Imam Abu Yusuf (Allah have mercy on him) permitted the using of black dye for adornment, between a husband and wife. “As I desire my wife to adorn herself for me, she also desires that I adorn myself for her.” (Radd al-Muhtar)
An important point to consider when using the dye, whatever the age, is that this is not done for the wrong and unlawful reason. i.e. fashion and imitating the non believers. In the Hadith related by Imam Abu Dawud in his Sunan, the Prophet of Allah (SAW) said: “Whoever imitates a nation will be amongst them.” (Sunan Abu Dawud, no. 4031).
Only Allah Knows Best
Sayeedur Rahman
Darul Ifta, Birmingham
