Q: I am a Muslim woman and have a permanently damaged toenail due to trauma. Although it is not causing physical problems, the appearance of the nail causes me significant embarrassment and distress and affects my confidence.
I am getting married soon and would like to know whether it is permissible to use a cosmetic toenail reconstruction or similar treatment to restore the appearance of the damaged nail. My intention is not simply beautification, but to conceal and correct a defect that resulted from injury and that causes me considerable emotional distress.
If such a treatment forms a layer over the nail, how would this affect the validity of wudu? Is there any allowance in this situation, or would it need to be removed for wudu?
A: It is permissible to undergo treatment for this purpose. If the artificial nail is removable, then it should be removed and the toe should be washed. However, if it becomes part of the toe and is joined to the skin, then the entire toe should be washed and the wudhu will be valid.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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