Recently, we’ve seen a rise in influencers removing their hijab publicly. For many, it’s framed as a personal choice, a chapter of “self-growth”, or a moment of honesty with their audience. But for the Muslim community, especially young women navigating their own modesty journey, these public decisions have a far deeper impact than the person posting them may realise.
We All Struggle with Iman
Every Muslim woman knows what it feels like to struggle. Iman rises and falls. Some days feel strong, others feel heavy. Wearing the hijab, staying consistent in modesty, and resisting dunya pressures is not always easy. Struggling is human and Allah already knows every weakness and every private battle we face.
But the issue is not the struggle itself.
It is where that struggle is placed, how it is shared, and who it affects.
Public Influence Makes Private Choices Powerful
When someone with a platform removes their hijab online, it doesn’t stay a personal decision. Public figures shape trends, emotions, and perceptions, especially among those who look up to them or feel unsure in their own journey.
A single post can weaken the resolve of a sister who has been trying to stay consistent.
It can normalise stepping back. It can give the impression that obedience is optional, temporary, or dependent on mood or social pressure.
What was meant as one person’s difficult moment can create ripples in the hearts of thousands.
Islam Teaches Us to Conceal Our Faults
The Prophet ﷺ taught that whoever hides their sins, Allah will hide them on the Day of Judgement.
This is not to encourage secrecy in wrongdoing, but to protect the sinner and to protect the community from unnecessary harm.
Not every weakness should be shared.
Not every test needs an audience.
Some struggles should stay between you and Allah, where mercy is abundant and judgement is absent.
Why Public Hijab Removal Hurts More Than We Think
When modesty is removed in front of millions, it sends a message even if no words are spoken:
“It’s okay to take it off.”
“It’s not that serious.”
“You can always go back later.”
But some hearts are fragile. Some iman is still forming. Some girls are just beginning their hijab journey and may be holding on by a thread.
Influence is a responsibility. What we normalise, we are partly accountable for.
For the Sisters Watching
If you’re feeling shaken by these trends, remind yourself: your hijab is for Allah, not for influencers, not for trends, not for people. Your journey is yours. Your intention is yours. Your accountability is yours.
Stay anchored. Stay sincere. Stay hidden in obedience, even when the online world becomes loud.
A Final Reminder
We don’t judge those who struggle — we all struggle. But we remember that public mistakes create storms, while private mistakes invite mercy.
Protect your iman.
Protect the iman of others.
And keep your struggles between you and the One who understands them fully.
May Allah make us firm, sincere, and hidden in His protection. 🤍
