Prophet Muhammad Hairstyle & Forbidden Hairstyles in Islam

Hair is an essential part of a person’s appearance, and Islam has given particular attention to outer appearance, especially that of the Prophet ﷺ, so he may serve as a role model for Muslims in all aspects of life. This includes how he styled and cared for his hair.

Additionally, Islam has established guidelines for hairstyles that prevent imitation of disbelievers or immoral individuals, preserving the dignity and identity of the Muslim.

The Hair of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

The Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ hair was described in great detail by his companions, who carefully transmitted his physical and moral characteristics. Among the reported descriptions:

1. Hair Texture

The Prophet ﷺ had hair that was neither very curly (jʿad) nor completely straight (sabt), but something in between—moderately wavy.

Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) said:
“He was not excessively tall nor short... not extremely white nor very dark... not very curly nor very straight...”
(Reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim)

2. Hair Length

The Prophet's ﷺ hair length varied depending on the time:

• Sometimes it reached his earlobes.
• Other times it extended to his shoulders or between the ears and the shoulders.
• It is also reported that he arrived in Mecca with four braids.

Al-Bara’ ibn Azib said:
“His hair reached his earlobes...”
(Reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Umm Hani’ said:
“The Prophet ﷺ entered Mecca with four braids.”
(Reported by al-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawood)

3. Hair Grooming and Care

• He sometimes parted his hair, separating it in the middle, letting it fall to each side.
• He sometimes let it fall forward (Saddl) over the forehead.
• He would apply a substance to keep it together (talbid), especially during Hajj.
• He would also dye his hair at times.

Imam al-Nawawi said:
“Both parting and not parting the hair are permissible, but parting it is preferred.”
(Sharh Muslim 15/90)

Prohibited Hairstyles in Islam

Islam warns against certain hairstyles that involve imitating disbelievers or going against natural decorum. Among these prohibited styles are:

1. Qazaʿ (Uneven Shaving)

This involves shaving part of the head while leaving other parts unshaven, such as shaving the sides and leaving the top or vice versa.

Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said:
“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ forbade qazaʿ.”
(Reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Some forms of qazaʿ include:

• Shaving the middle and leaving the sides (as done by Christian monks).
• Shaving the sides and leaving the middle (as seen in modern fashion).
• Shaving the front and leaving the back.

2. Imitating Disbelievers

Imitating non-Muslims in their distinct styles, like certain military or punk hairstyles, is forbidden, even if not explicitly qazaʿ.

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever imitates a people is one of them.”
(Reported by Abu Dawood, authenticated by Ibn Hajar)

3. Imitating the Immoral or the Shameless

This refers to hairstyles associated with disobedience, fame-seeking, or rebellious behavior, often trending in pop culture, detached from Islamic values.

Imam Ibn al-Qayyim said:
“Shaving some parts of the head and leaving others comes in levels. The worst is shaving the middle and leaving the sides (like Christian clerics). Then shaving the sides and leaving the middle (as the corrupt do). Then shaving the front and leaving the back. All these fall under qazaʿ.”

Conclusion

Following the example of the Prophet ﷺ includes not only his morals and worship but also his outward appearance. His hairstyle reflected moderation, cleanliness, and dignity. Islam guides Muslims to take care of their appearance within the bounds of modesty and integrity, avoiding imitation of disbelievers or those who act in opposition to Islamic values. Hair is a form of beauty, but it must remain within the limits Allah has set.