Is it permissible for a woman to shave her head without necessity?
Chapter on Utensils
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
Shaving the head by a woman, absent necessity, is disliked (*makruh*). The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, dissociated himself from the woman who wails loudly and the woman who shaves her head. This is supported by a consensus on the dislike (*rawiyah*). The prohibition against a woman shaving her head is also related. Shaving the head in such circumstances is considered mutilation (*muthlah*).
Supporting text
If a woman is incapable of managing her hair, such as being unable to apply oil or maintain it due to pests, shaving it for that necessity is permissible, and there is hope that it entails no harm.