Softening scabs before mikveh - Nishmat Yoatzot Halacha

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Softening scabs before mikveh

July 3, 2014

Question

Hi. I have a skin condition which leaves me with scabs on different parts of my body. If I scrape them they bleed. I need to go on Saturday night which means preparations are done mostly before Shabbat. Will a shower suffice to soften the scabs?

Answer

We are sorry to hear of your skin condition.

Softening scabs is a strongly accepted stringent custom. There is no precise measure of softness they must reach. The idea is that they should feel more a part of the body, or less easily picked off of the skin. This can be achieved with a thorough shower.