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

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Hard thick toenails

24 October, 2022

Question:

I have very thick and hard toenails that are extremely difficult to cut. Could this create a problem for mikvah?


Answer:

Thank you for reaching out to us.

Though it is customary to cut nails prior to immersion, natural growths of the body such as nails are not inherently considered a chatzitzah. Additionally, there is a halachic tradition of being less particular about toenails than fingernails. Therefore, as long as you clean them, file or trim them as is comfortable for you, and maintain them well, your toenails do not present a barrier to immersion.

You may find it helpful to consult a physician, podiatrist, and/or a cosmetologist about how best to maintain nails like these in the long term, and about whether any specific tools or products can make it easier to trim them.

We hope this helps. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.


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