Removal of Body Hair

Q: What does Islam say about the removal of unwanted body hair?

A: When hair appears under the armpits and from below the navel to around the anus, such hair has to be removed. The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (salllallahu alayhi wasallam) said that removal of this hair is among the important teachings of Islamic culture (Bukhari and Muslim). The Muslim Jurists have ruled that one should shave this hair at least once every 40 days. To leave it for longer than 40 days is not permissible.
In the case of a female, she should remove facial hair as well, for it is only men whom are commanded to keep a beard and moustache.
A female is allowed to use ointment or cream to remove any unwanted hair.