The Post-Hajj/Umrah Mani-Pedis

Mani-Pedi Tips for Muslims

1. Make wudu before the Mani-Pedi, so you can actually get your nails polished–at least for a few hours enjoyment and beauty. I rarely polish my nails–I remember that last pedicure I was on break, so I did 4-years ago. My girls used to paint nails with their aunt and late grandmother before they prayed regularly (we’re talking toddlers); however they like it. So, they occasionally paint 1-2 times a year like for Eid, but take it off once they need to make wudu. We are very strict, some say, you just cannot have it interfere with water washing their skin–so they only now, after their first professional manicure, are figuring out ways or designs to paint in the middle of their nails.
2. Visit the nail salon before going to view their setup for hygienic reasons, comfort, and most of all–no males; open windows for passerby’s, etc. At the very least, get personal referrals. Even if you find a “sale sign” coupon, make sure you do NOT miss this step. Remember, you want to be pampered in a relaxing spa-like fashion–I’ve stepped into places that are SO dirty, or just stink of toxic-waste that obviously they’re putting on people’s bodies–yes, I consider my nails part of my body! And, I’m highly sensitive to bad-smells–if I can pass-out to bad B.O. (body odor) during Taraweeh, anything unnatural really takes me for a spin.
3. Schedule your appointments & ask for specials. I’ve never did the drop-in; because I have to assure no men, no passerby’s, and make sure they know my feet or calves cannot be exposed to anyone unnecessarily–men OR women! I was scheduling for 4 people, so it’s the only polite and time-efficient way to do business. Also, you can ask for the least busy time of the day or week, for optimal relaxing, quiet, peaceful, non-rushed atmosphere.
4. Ask for as many all-natural products as possible. While it’s only going on our nails, we try to find the most halal products possible. I haven’t found a halal manicurist yet–but, halal cosmetics are slowing entering the market–so polishes are bound to come up.
5. Watch out for the razor. This is not just for Muslims, but I found out that in some states using the razor on the heels of our feet is actually an illegal practice for manicurists these days! Stick with pumice stones and other tools. Almost everyone I know who gets regular pedicures agree with me–once, I was basically tip-toeing out of the salon because my heels were so raw.