Donating Human Hair for Cancer Patients

Answered by Ustadh Salman Younas

Question: For the past few years I’ve been growing my hair out to donate to cancer patient who have undergone chemotherapy, thinking this is an act of charity.

After learning about the rules with human hair wigs in Islam, I wonder if this is seen as charity or if it is considered forbidden.

Answer: assalamu `alaykum

I pray you are well.

It would not be permitted to donate human hair even if it is for a good cause. This is because the scholars have stated that it is not permitted to use any part of the human body due to the honor bestowed upon it by Allah.

The exception to this is in life-threatening circumstances, such as organ transplants, in which case necessity would make even the impermissible permitted.

This ruling applies to actual human hair. As for synthetic hair, the Hanafi scholars deem it permissible to use.

Finally, concerning your past donations, you will be rewarded for your noble intentions to assist someone suffering from a serious illness. However, now that you understand the legal rulings, you should try to contribute in different ways.

[Ibn `Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar; Fatawa Hindiyya]

Donating Hair for Wigs

Can Sisters Wear Dreadlocks or Synthetic Extensions in Their Hair?

Salman

Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani