Many people ask if it is permissible for Muslim women to wear artificial nails or not. This question has a lot of different dimensions, and there is no one straight answer to it when we look at the teachings from different scholars. However, if one would summarize it in a few lines, then according to the scholars, it is not haram for a woman to wear artificial nails. Still, it is not recommended as when one has artificial nails; they cannot perform wudhu, which inhibits them from praying. But if you can manage it between prayer timings, there's no issue doing what you like the best!

Rulings Regarding Fake Nails:.

Many narrations state that anyone adapting to the practices of other tribes who are not Muslims is not an admirable thing.

So, one can draw a correlation from this narration and understand how it is not likable for Muslim women to wear artificial nails. Therefore, one can say that it is not practically Haram for you to wear fake nails and fake hair extensions. So, the best thing would be to avoid them for obvious reasons stated in such narrations.

However, using nail polishes or artificial nails is one's personal choice. If you feel comfortable doing so, you should not hold back. Just make sure to keep a balance between your religion and fashion so that one thing won't come in the way of another.

When is it 'Not Permissible'?

One of the main reasons why one should not indulge in the practice of acrylic nails or artificial nails is the process by which it is applied to your nails. For example, acrylic nails are plastered over your original layers by using UV lights and other products. This means that your original nail cuticles will have an extra product layer over them. On top of this, the artificial nails also have nail polish applied over them. This means that there will be another layer of substance over your nails.

Now, why is it important? It is because when you have so much substance applied or plastered over your nails, it means you cannot perform wudhu. Plus, it damages your nails too. Applying nails is not specifically Haram, but not being able to pray because of it is a sin. 

And yes, some of you might wonder if you can apply these fake nails between Namaz timings. That is permissible, so go ahead!

However, some might find it a waste of time and money as it takes around one hour for you to get a perfect manicure for your fake nails. And you cannot spend that much time three or four times a day just so that you can pray.

Are Artificial Nails Damaging?

Artificial nails themselves are not damaging or harmful. What is harmful is the procedure involved. Wearing artificial nails includes the use of different chemicals and harmful substances. When you wear them, go for touch-ups, take them off, you use chemicals on your nails. These substances can hurt your natural nail coverings. Furthermore, this can lead to fungus and other infections in nails.

So, a reliable way to do this is to stay careful about the chemicals you use with them. Also, whenever you go for touch-ups or manicures, make sure you know what substances are being used on your hands and if they are safe or not.

When Can You Wear Artificial Nails?

Now, we know that most of you might feel bad because many people find these nails beautiful and admiring. So, here are some conditions in which you can wear artificial nails:

When you are menstruating, you are exempt from praying and fasting. Therefore, you will not be committing any sin of missing your prayers. So, apply them while you are on your periods and remove them when you start praying again. Also if you have an event or a wedding to attend, you can apply them at that time and remove them afterward to continue with your usual life.

Another way you can wear colors on your nails without worrying about anything is by using water-permissible nail polishes There are water-permeable nail polishes and acrylic nails available - they let the water in when you are performing wudhu. In this case, your wudhu will be valid, and you will not miss any prayer. On top of those nails, you can also apply breathable nail polish, which is stated as Halal nail polish, as it does not prevent water from reaching your body.

During their conversation about fake nails and hair extensions, many Islamic scholars allowed people to wear them. However, when you die, your acrylic nails and extensions will have to be removed as they will prevent water from reaching your body. In some cases, people might not be able to remove acrylic nails from your body, which will not be deemed suitable as your ghusl will not be complete.

If you are confident in yourself and can manage between prayers and nails, you can do it by all means. They look great, and no doubt you will look amazing by wearing them too. 

Take Away

When we look at the Quran or narration, there are not any specific rulings about fake nails or hair extensions. Mostly because these things were not as common among people at that time. However, if you really want to get them, you can compensate yourself by wearing breathable nail polishes. Muslim scholars deem them Halal as they do not inhibit water from reaching your body. And you can use artificial nails in between your namaz timing.

Hence, the bottom line is that it's everyone's personal choice. If you want to do it, do it by all means. No one is going to stop you - but try finding substitutes such as breathable nail polish that would allow you to pray and perform wudu while you have it on. So, you don't have to leave out everything; just learn to prioritize your life according to Islam.

FAQs

1. Is it permissible for Muslim women to wear artificial nails?

Wearing artificial nails is generally not considered haram by most scholars, but it’s not recommended. The main concern is that artificial nails can block water from reaching the natural nails during wudu, which is required for prayer. If you can manage artificial nails between prayer times, there is no issue, but it’s best to avoid them for ease during wudu.

2. Can artificial nails be worn during menstruation?

Yes, during menstruation, Muslim women are exempt from prayers and fasting. This makes it permissible to wear artificial nails without worrying about disrupting wudu. Many women choose this time to apply artificial nails, removing them before resuming prayer after menstruation.

3. Are there any alternatives to artificial nails for Muslim women?

Water-permeable or breathable nail polishes are an excellent alternative for Muslim women who want to wear nail polish while still being able to perform wudu. These polishes allow water to reach the natural nails, making them a permissible choice for those who want to maintain both modesty and style.

4. What is the concern with wearing artificial nails during prayer?

The primary concern with wearing artificial nails during prayer is that they prevent water from reaching the natural nails during wudu. Without a proper wudu, prayers may not be valid. Some scholars suggest avoiding artificial nails altogether or finding alternatives like breathable nail polish to ensure wudu is complete.

5. Can wearing artificial nails damage natural nails?

Yes, artificial nails can cause damage to natural nails due to the chemicals and adhesives used during application. Prolonged use can weaken the natural nails, potentially leading to infections or fungal growth. It’s important to carefully monitor the health of your nails when using artificial products.