Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Locs & braids

4 August, 2003
Question:

What are the rulings concerning the wearing of locs and the immersion in the mikveh? By the terms locs (dreading), I mean the style of hair that women of African descent wear.  Also, please give the rulings on the braiding of hair in regards to mikveh.


Answer:

During the process of immersion water must be able to reach all parts of the body at the same time, including each strand of hair. If the hair is worn in locs or is braided, this is not possible. Therefore, it is normally prohibited to immerse in this manner.

A woman with locs who is planning to get married, or to begin observing the laws of mikveh, should approach her rabbi, mentor, or kallah teacher for individual guidance.

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