Updated January 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ezra Hasofer established ten takanos<\/i> (laws) covering a wide spectrum of Jewish life.1<\/sup><\/a> The purpose of these takanos <\/em>was to enhance Torah<\/i> study, Shabbos, the Jewish communal court system, and the sanctity of the Jewish home and marriage. One of the takanos<\/i> was that salesmen should travel from town to town to supply perfume and fragrances to the women of each community.2<\/sup><\/a> It is clear that these items were important in Jewish life since ancient times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The STAR-K hotline receives numerous inquiries relating to cosmetics and halacha<\/i>. One must know the answers to questions regarding these products that are commonly used. Does lipstick require kosher certification? During Pesach, may one use perfume or makeup that contains chometz<\/i>? Are any cosmetics permissible for use on Shabbos and Yom Tov?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because these halachos<\/i> are complex, it is important for consumers to have a clear grasp of the numerous issues and how to proceed in practice (halacha l’maaseh<\/i>). The following are halachic<\/i> guidelines of cosmetic use based on the psak<\/i> of Rabbi Moshe Heinemann shlit”a<\/i>, Rabbinic Administrator of STAR-K.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We are familiar with the Torah<\/i> law prohibiting one from eating non-kosher food. This halacha<\/i> only prohibits the consumption of non-kosher food. One may, however, derive benefit from non-kosher food.3<\/sup><\/a> The “minhag haolam<\/i>” (custom) is to include in this category the application of non-kosher cosmetics to the skin.4<\/sup><\/a> For example, it is permissible for one to apply facial creams or lotions containing animal derivatives. One may even apply non-kosher ingredients to one’s lips (e.g. lipstick, lip balm). This is true even though one may inadvertently swallow traces of lipstick that mix with food. These trace amounts of lipstick are batel b’shishim<\/i> (1:60 or less).5<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n If there is no intention to swallow a non-food product (e.g. toothpaste, mouthwash, floss), one need not worry about the ingredients.6<\/sup><\/a> Nonetheless, it is a hidur<\/i> to use kosher products if they might inadvertently be swallowed. If a product is intentionally swallowed (e.g. breath spray and breath freshener strips), the product requires kosher certification.7<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n On Pesach<\/i>, one may not consume, own or derive benefit from items that contain derivatives of the chameishes minei dagan<\/i> – wheat, barley, spelt, oats, and rye.8<\/sup><\/a> This halacha<\/i> applies to all such items that are fit for human or canine consumption, including perfume and other products containing ethyl alcohol. Therefore, one may not use such products on Pesach<\/i> until the source of alcohol is determined.9<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n According to halacha<\/i>, if a makeup is unfit for human and canine consumption, it may be used on Pesach<\/i> even if it contains chometz<\/i> ingredients. Nonetheless, many individuals are strict and avoid using creams, lotions and liquids that contain chometz<\/i>.10<\/sup><\/a> This is especially true for lipstick11<\/sup><\/a> which one may inadvertently swallow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are various halachic<\/i> issues related to the use of cosmetics on Shabbos and Yom Tov<\/i>.12<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not color on Shabbos. Therefore, one may not apply makeup, including lipstick, on Shabbos.13<\/sup><\/a> This is true even if it is applied lightly, on top of existing makeup, with one’s finger, or with a special brush. Included in this prohibition is mixing or blending two different colors together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not squeeze out or use a wet cloth on Shabbos. One may also not use a wet cleansing pad or sponge. Similarly, pouring toner or other liquids onto a cotton ball or adding water to a cloth is not allowed. One may not use a brush to apply liquid makeup, as this may constitute sechita<\/i>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This melacha<\/i> is a tolda<\/i> of memachek<\/i>. The following guidelines apply:<\/p>\n\n\n\n C1. Solids and Ointments<\/strong> – One may not smear cream or ointment, or use bar soap, stick deodorant, or toothpaste on Shabbos. Similarly, one may not apply lipstick on Shabbos. This is true even if the lipstick is applied lightly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n C2. Viscous Fluids<\/strong> – Thick oils and creamy hand soaps that are viscous14<\/sup><\/a> and pour slowly are also subject to this prohibition.15<\/sup><\/a> For example, Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap<\/em> may not be used on Shabbos due to its thickness.16<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n C3.\u00a0Fluids with Low Viscosity<\/strong>\u00a0– Oils that pour faster (with a viscosity of 600 cP or less) are not subject to this prohibition. For example, STAR-K tested\u00a0Ultra Dawn Concentrated Dish Liquid\/Anti-Bacterial Hand Soap<\/em>17<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0at room temperature (70\u00b0F)18<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0and determined that it is permissible to use on Shabbos. Regular liquid dishwashing soap may also be used.19<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0Liquid deodorant in roll-on or spray form may also be used on Shabbos.20<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n C4.\u00a0Diluting Thick Fluids<\/strong>\u00a0– One may use a diluted fluid if the viscosity of the diluted product is 600 cP or less.21<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0For example,\u00a0Softsoap Anti-Bacterial Liquid Hand Soap with Light Moisturizers<\/em>\u00a0that is diluted one part water into two parts soap (i.e. 2\/3 soap-1\/3 water) is permissible for use on Shabbos.22<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not grind on Shabbos. Some are of the opinion that one may not break up clumps of blush or take powder from a cake of blush on Shabbos.23<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n One who has a discomfort (maychush<\/i>) may not use a remedy24<\/sup><\/a> (even a simple external one) on Shabbos.25<\/sup><\/a> For example, one who has chapped lips may not apply medicinal oil to soothe them.26<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Additional melachos<\/i> that are prohibited and at times may be relevant to this matter include: Molid Rayach<\/i> (applying fragrance to clothing) and Gozez<\/i> (shearing).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Due to the various halachic<\/i> issues regarding makeup and cosmetics on Shabbos, it is advisable for one to apply all makeup before Shabbos begins. All makeup may be applied on Erev Shabbos, even if it will remain on well into Shabbos .27<\/sup><\/a> This includes long-lasting lipstick. This lipstick is sometimes referred to as “Shabbos lipstick,” since it lasts for up to 24 hours. This “Shabbos lipstick” may not be applied once Shabbos has begun (this would constitute tzovaya<\/i> and memarei’ach<\/i>) and should not be confused with “Shabbos makeup” in powdered form that some authorities permit on Shabbos, as will be discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n HaRav Moshe Feinstein zt”l<\/i> was of the opinion28<\/sup><\/a> that one may use powdered makeup that is not long lasting. This circumvents the problem of tzovaya<\/i>. This powder is commonly known as “Shabbos makeup.” Rav Moshe only allows the use of certain powders that have been carefully tested to ensure they are not long lasting. HaRav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach zt”l<\/i>29<\/sup><\/a> disagrees and opines that all makeup may not be applied on Shabbos regardless of how long it lasts. This opinion is more widely accepted by Poskim<\/i>. According to Rav Shlomo Zalman, all makeup, even “Shabbos makeup,” is forbidden to use on Shabbos. One should consult a Rav<\/i> to determine which opinion one should follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To conform with Rav Moshe’s ruling, Shabbos makeup may only be used under the following conditions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n It has been tested by a reliable Rav<\/i> or certifying agency to confirm that it is “temporary” enough to meet Rav Moshe’s standards. The product that one wishes to use on Shabbos must be specifically endorsed by the Rav<\/i> or certifying agency. General statements should not be relied upon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not apply makeup onto a wet area (this will cause the makeup to stay on too long). Therefore, before applying makeup, one’s face must be dry and clean. When using “Shabbos moisturizer” (i.e. it is specially prepared and approved for use on Shabbos), one must wait until it has completely dried before applying Shabbos makeup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not mix cosmetic colors, because of tzovaya<\/i>. Therefore, a separate brush must be used for each color. One may not apply Shabbos makeup on top of non-Shabbos foundation or makeup30<\/sup><\/a> (that was applied before Shabbos<\/i>). However, one may apply “Shabbos blush” on top of “Shabbos foundation” or re-apply Shabbos makeup over existing Shabbos makeup that is the same color.31<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n According to some opinions,32<\/sup><\/a> before Shabbos, one should remove the makeup from the cake, break it up, and use this loose powder on Shabbos.33<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n On a weekday, before applying makeup, women often apply cleansers, toners and moisturizers. On Shabbos, the following halachos<\/i> apply to the usage of these skin care treatment products:<\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not apply cream or gel (memarei’ach<\/i>) or wet pad astringents (schita<\/i>). However, one may apply a watery liquid cleanser with one’s fingers. A cotton ball or cotton pad may not be used. To remove the cleanser on Shabbos , one should rinse it off with water or use a dry towel or facial tissue. One may not use a wet paper towel, pad or sponge.35<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n A liquid toner, used to freshen skin or to clean the pores, may be applied directly (e.g. by spraying) onto one’s face (without a cotton ball). One may not use a wet paper towel or sponge to rinse it off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Almost all varieties of this product are in a cream form and therefore may not be used on Shabbos (memarei’ach<\/i>). This is true for those dispensed by pump or from a jar. One possible substitute is a specially prepared watered down spray or roll-on moisturizer.36<\/sup><\/a> One must first confirm with a Rav<\/i> that the product is watered down enough so that its usage does not constitute memarei’ach<\/i>.37<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n These include facial scrubs, peels, and masks. None are permissible for use on Shabbos since they are always in cream form and constitute memarei’ach<\/i>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The following are halachic<\/i> guidelines regarding the use of different makeups on Shabbos. Note: Whenever a reference is made to Shabbos makeup, this refers to powders that have been tested by a reliable halachic authority to meet the standards of Rav Moshe zt”l<\/i> (as addressed in section IV). As previously noted, according to Rav Shlomo Zalman zt”l<\/i>, no color powders may ever be used on Shabbos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These products are used to even out skin tones, smooth away the appearance of fine lines and imperfections, and apply a hint of color.38<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n These powders are used to add color to one’s face and to enhance cheek color. Regular powdered blush may not be used on Shabbos (tzovaya<\/em>). However, as previously mentioned, there is “Shabbos makeup” powdered blush available that is not long-lasting and may be used according to Rav Moshe zt”l<\/em>, under the conditions listed above (section IV). Blush in cream or stick form may not be used on Shabbos (memarei’ach<\/em> and tzovaya<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are four areas of the eye to which women apply cosmetics to highlight and enhance the appearance of the eye: the eyebrow, eyelid, eyeline, and eyelash. Applying eye makeup in the form of cosmetic creams, regular non-Shabbos powders, cake (powder that one mixes with water), pencils, and liquid eyeliners, is strictly forbidden on Shabbos.39<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Besides the normal conditions of Shabbos makeup, according to some opinions, eye makeup poses additional concerns regarding blending colors (tzovaya<\/em>).40<\/sup><\/a> The following are halachic<\/em> guidelines when using eye makeup. Note: These conditions are in addition to the general Shabbos makeup conditions listed in section IV.41<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n a. Eyelid<\/strong>\u00a0– Typically, women apply two or three colors of makeup to the different areas of the eyelid. It is preferable to avoid doing this on\u00a0Shabbos, since these colors will touch one another and blend. Therefore, it is best to apply only one color of “Shabbos\u00a0makeup” powder to the eyelid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n b. Eyebrow and Eyeline<\/strong>\u00a0– Women typically use cosmetic pencil\/liquid eyeliner on these areas. As indicated previously, these may not be used on\u00a0Shabbos. However, there are\u00a0Shabbos\u00a0makeup powdered eyeliners available that are not long-lasting and may be used according to Rav Moshe\u00a0zt”l<\/em>, under the conditions listed above (section IV). If the\u00a0Shabbos\u00a0eyebrow or eyeline powdered makeup color is different from the eyelid makeup color, it is preferable that the two colors do not touch. One may not tweeze eyebrows on\u00a0Shabbos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n c. Eyelashes<\/strong>\u00a0– Mascara is used to color and lengthen eyelashes. The use of this product with or without a brush on\u00a0Shabbos\u00a0is forbidden.42<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n a. Lipstick\/Lipliner<\/strong>\u00a0– One may not apply lipstick or lipliner on\u00a0Shabbos, as, according to all opinions, this constitutes\u00a0tzovaya<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0memarei’ach<\/em>.43<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0This is true even if it is applied lightly or on top of existing makeup. As previously indicated, one may apply regular or extra long-lasting lipstick on Erev Shabbos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n b. Lip Powder<\/strong>\u00a0– According to some\u00a0poskim<\/em>, non long-lasting\u00a0Shabbos\u00a0makeup powder may be used on the lips44<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0under the conditions listed above (section IV), based on the opinion that non long-lasting powdered blush is permissible. Nonetheless, there are other\u00a0poskim<\/em>\u00a0who say even those who use non long-lasting powdered blush should not use powder on their lips.45<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0According to these opinions, women who wish to have makeup on their lips should not apply powder on their lips on\u00a0Shabbos, but rather use long lasting lipstick on Erev Shabbos –\u00a0v’hamachmir al zeh tavoh aleha bracha<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n c. Lip Gloss<\/strong>\u00a0– This product may not be used on\u00a0Shabbos\u00a0(tzovaya<\/em>). This is true even if one applies untinted\/clear lip gloss, as the\u00a0poskim<\/em>\u00a0consider this a form of\u00a0tzovaya<\/em>.46<\/sup><\/a>\u00a0If one uses a brush, it also creates the problem of\u00a0schita<\/em>. Lip sealer on top of existing makeup is also not permitted.47<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n d. Chapstick and Vaseline<\/strong>\u00a0– These may not be used on\u00a0Shabbos, as their use constitutes\u00a0memarei’ach<\/em>.48<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n If makeup must be removed on Shabbos, the following guidelines apply:<\/p>\n\n\n\n One is permitted to apply perfume and fragrances onto one’s body. One may not apply perfume or any fragrance to clothing or sheitels<\/i> to make them smell nice. It is prohibited because it is molid rayach<\/i>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One may not clip or file nails on Shabbos (gozez<\/i>). One may not apply nail polish (tzovaya<\/i>). Colorless nail polish may also not be used.51<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n One may do all of these activities before Shabbos begins. If a woman needs to remove nail polish, it should be done before Shabbos. If one inadvertently left some nail polish on when Shabbos began, in preparation for tevilah<\/i>, one may use nail polish remover on Shabbos. However, one may not pour the remover onto a cotton ball. Rather, one should pour it directly on the nail and rub it off with one’s finger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the process of applying permanent makeup, also known as microblading, lip brushing, micro pigmentation or cosmetic tattooing, a needle deposits colored pigments made from iron oxide below the top layer of the skin. This procedure, applied on lips and around the eyes, is a form of tattooing and is thus prohibited52<\/sup><\/a> by the Torah<\/i> (ksoves ka’aka<\/i>). The prohibition of ksoves ka’aka<\/i> applies even to makeup that is “semi-permanent” which only lasts for several years.53<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nI. Kashrus<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
II. Pesach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
III. Shabbos Issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A. Tzovaya<\/i><\/b> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
B. Sechita<\/i>\/Libun<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
C. Memarei’ach<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
D. Tochein<\/i><\/b> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
E. Refuah<\/i><\/b> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
F. Molid Rayach<\/em> and Gozez<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
IV. “Shabbos Makeup”<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A. Tested<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
B. Dry Face <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
C. No Mixing <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
D. Loose Powder <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
V. Practical Applications on Shabbos<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A. Skincare34<\/sup><\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A1. Cleansers <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A2. Toner <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A3. Moisturizer <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A4. Deep Cleansing Treatment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
B. Makeup <\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
B1.\u00a0Foundation\/Concealers\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
B2.\u00a0Blushes\/Rouges\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
B3.\u00a0Eye Makeup<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
B4.\u00a0Lip Makeup<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
C. Makeup Removal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
D. Perfume<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
E. Nails <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
VI. Permanent Makeup<\/strong><\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n