Halal Nail Varnish, Testing, Eid Trends and Top Picks

https://www.theecomuslim.co.uk/2020/07/halal-nail-varnish.html

In this article I've explored the top picks of nail brands available to the UK, what makes these 'Halal', and 2020 colour trends for Eid.

I also test these products myself so check out the results below.

What is Halal Nail Varnish?

Let's be clear. There is no such thing as 'Halal nail varnish'. Halal is a legal term derived in Islam from Quran and Ahadith sources; Muslims live by these codes as law. Many nail varnishes are ethical, animal product and alcohol free, and not tested on animals, so they come close to being 'Halal' - this is great.

But a 100% Islamically rewarding and strictly Shariah complaint nail varnish doesn't exist because there are too many variables in its production and its use.

What Islam Says About Make up?

Historically, nail varnish has not been included in these areas of legalities because it's commonly known that the lacquer prevents water touching the nails, which is a requirement of the ablution before prayer.

However, in Islamic jurisprudence, if the smallest area of skin is left dry during ablution it needs to be repeated.

In contemporary scholarly discussion, nail polish is grouped under the umbrella topic of bandages and wound coverings, which means that if you have a medical reason to cover your nails - this is an accepted exemption.

Contrary to popular opinion, yes, Wudu is a spiritual act as well as physical hygiene.

Yes, make-up is allowed in Islam within common-sense and cultural boundaries.

Yes, Muslim women wear nail polishes and unfortunately peers have inferred two things by this: that the woman is menstruating and showing she is absolved from praying (ie. no Wudu is required) or that she is rebellious and deliberately not praying. Neither are healthy judgements.

The only real practical equivalent to nail polish is perhaps nail Henna (mehndi), a temporary tattoo alternative that fades away.

?Why Talk About Halal Nail Varnish Now?

I've never needed to explore this area before. Make-up trends are ever changing and as a Muslim woman, I personally don't wear nail varnish so it's not affected my ablution or prayers. As an eco-Muslim, appearances have not been part of my environmental Jihad (struggle).

However, for many audiences, having breathable nail polish is a health and beauty issue. Now in 2020, there are over 30 brands just within Europe and America - the Arab countries and south Asia has just as many designer varnishes.

Top Nail Varnish Picks To UK

Niya Cosmetics. Based in London, Niya states they have certification from the Halal Certification Agency to become Shariah compliant. Positively, they clearly note that two coats of their porous varnish can be applied and users should rub the fingernails for water to penetrate for Wudu.

Lena Nail Polish. Another UK based company with a wide range of Eid-inspired colours, their water permeability report states the nail varnish is 'significantly water permeable' after 90 seconds. I'll be testing their products below.

Nailberry. With five collections, one called 'L’Oxygéné', Nailberry's certification complies with the Halal & Hygiene Guidelines by International Halal Integrity Alliance.

786 Cosmetics. An American company, 786 ships internationally and creates products inspired by tropical countries. Their 'Halal' award is verified as water permeable by the Kalamazoo Islamic Center (KIC) who clearly state in their report wearers should rub their nails for water penetration.