Is a man allowed to dye his hair?

The Code of Jewish Law1 enumerates several activities that fall under the prohibition of "a man shall not wear women's clothes" (Deuteronomy 22:5); among them is a man dying his hair.

With regards to some of the listed restrictions, where the behavior involved offers other benefits besides for appearances, the law stipulates that in a society that considers such conduct to be men's behavior as well, it would be permitted.

However, the law does not provide this stipulation in the case of dying one's hair, and forbids it regardless of whether it is acceptable practice among men in a given society. This is because enhancing looks is the sole benefit of dying one's hair, a behavior which is considered a "women only" domain.

There are some instances in which latter day Halachic authorities have permitted man to dye their hair, where there is a benefit that is not solely "good looks," such as to secure a job. In such a situation, the issue should be discussed with your personal rabbi.

Best wishes,

Rabbi Baruch S. Davidson