Starting a hairdresser business

Q: I run a hairdressing salon for women. I avoid the unlawful acts including Nams (removing hair from the face/eyebrows), adding false hair, and applying dyes. I only beautify the brides who wear or do not wear hijab (veil). Some sisters in Islam told me that beautifying a bride who does not wear Hijab is Haram (prohibited). I fear Allah and am filled with remorse. Thus, I went to Farskour and asked some scholars about this matter. Some said this act is Haram and I should only beautify the brides who wear Hijab, whereas others said that it is not Haram as long as I beautify the bride for her husband.

A: Running a hairdressing salon for women is impermissible, as it leads to wasteful spending and evil consequences including immorality and imitating non-Muslims. As for beautifying a Mutabarijah woman (dressing up immodestly in violation of the Islamic dress code) who exposes her beauty to foreign men, it is worse and a violation of what Allah and His Messenger forbid. You should search for other work. And Allah knows best. (Part No. 24; Page No. 26) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.