What forms of adornment (Zinah) are prohibited for a woman observing Iddah?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
Adornment is obligatory to avoid according to the general opinion of scholars, including Ibn Umar, Ibn Abbas, and Ata. This prohibition covers three categories. First, personal physical beautification: she is forbidden from dyeing, applying rouge (Kalkulun) to redden the face, whitening it with Usfu-r-al-Arais (a white pigment), applying saffron to yellow it, engraving patterns on her face or hands, plucking facial hair, and applying Kohl (antimony) without necessity. These are prohibited based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) statement to a woman whose husband died: "The one whose husband has died should not wear dyed clothing, nor Mamsheq, nor jewelry, nor dye her hair, nor apply kohl." Furthermore, Kohl is considered a strong form of adornment that incites desire, being more severe than perfume.
Supporting text
If the woman has an eye ailment and needs Kohl for medical treatment, she may apply it at night and remove it during the day. This necessity allowance is supported by Ata, Al-Nakha'i, Malik, and the People of Opinion. Kohl made from Tutia or Anzarut is permissible, as it disfigures the eye rather than beautifies it. She is also permitted to apply saffron paste to parts of her body other than her face, and she is not prevented from cleaning herself by trimming her nails, plucking underarm hair, shaving hair recommended for removal, bathing with Sidr, or combing with it, as these are for cleansing, not perfume.