In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Unshaved hair
January 23, 2011

Question

If I usually shave the hair on my legs and under my armpits before toiveling, would hair that wasn't shaved in those areas (inadvertently not shaved or just overlooked) be considered a chatzitza?

Answer

Natural body hair does not generally constitute a chatzitzah unless it is matted or tangled. Thus, even a woman who usually shaves but neglects to do so before mikveh is permitted to immerse. (It is still ideal to make a habit of shaving a day or so before mikveh, rather than on the preparation day itself, so as to avoid even the suggestion of being particular about having the hair freshly shaved for immersion.) Additionally, most women are not particular about hair overlooked or inadvertently left unshaved.
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