The question of trimming the hair around the anus is a specific detail of personal hygiene that many Muslims seek clarification on to ensure their purity (Taharah) is complete. Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness, considering it a part of faith.

This article outlines the evidence from the Sunnah regarding hair removal and how scholars apply these principles to the area around the anus.

The Fitrah (Natural Hygiene)

The practice of removing unwanted hair is rooted in the concept of Fitrah—the natural, pristine state of humans.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“Five things are from the fitrah (natural human sense of hygiene)… [one of which is] removing the pubic hairs.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Time Limits and Etiquette

The Sunnah provides not only the instruction but also a timeline to ensure grooming is not neglected.

  • Time Limit: The hair should not be left for more than forty days. Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet set a time limit of no more than forty days for trimming the mustache, clipping nails, plucking armpit hairs, and shaving pubic hair.
  • Etiquette: Jurists recommend starting the shaving of pubic hair from beneath the navel, beginning on the right-hand side. Crucially, one must ensure they are concealed from the sight of others while doing this.

Ruling on Hair Around the Anus

Is it obligatory to remove hair specifically from the anal ring?

Scholars state that the reasoning behind removing pubic hair—which is to maintain cleanliness and purity—can also be applied to the hair on the scrotum and around the anus.

  • The Condition: If impurities (Najis) tend to get attached to this hair, it defeats the purpose of being completely clean.
  • The Verdict: In such cases where hair causes dirt or impurities to cling to the body, removing this hair is considered a “good thing” and is recommended to ensure perfect purification.

Ruling for Women

It is important to note that these guidelines are not exclusive to men. With regard to women, the rulings on removing pubic hair and maintaining hygiene in these areas are exactly the same.