Can we buff nails?

Can we buff nails?

If buffing the nails is done merely for cosmetic purposes, i.e. to make the nails look shiny, smart, and well-groomed, it will be Makrooh (disapproved and discouraged) because it is an unnecessary and futile indulgence.

For a woman who exposes her hands in public it will not be permissible to buff the nails for cosmetic purposes because then she is deliberately showing of her finery and adornment. This is the normal rule that applies to women when they go out in public.

If buffing is done for the purpose of repairing or protecting damaged nails then it will not be Makrooh but will be unconditionally permissible, because this falls under necessary treatment of the body.

If any substance is used in buffing, ensure that it does not contain a Haraam ingredient like pig fat, etc. and that it does not seal the surface of the nails thus preventing water from reaching there in Wudhu and Ghusl. If the nails become sealed, Wudhu and Ghusl will not be valid. In that case, one will have to wash the substance off before making Wudhu or Ghusl.

Allah Ta’aala knows best.
Mufti Siraj Desai

( Muslims at Work Newsletter)