Do some ointments, such as (Vaseline), prevent water from reaching the skin?
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The questioner : Do some ointments, such as Vaseline, prevent water from reaching the skin?
The Shaykh : These ointments, such as Vaseline, prevent water from reaching the skin if they are solid and form a layer. However, if they are not solid, they do not prevent it. But it is recommended that if a person has some of this on his hand, foot, or any part of his body that requires ablution, he should run his hand over the place where the ointment is when he washes that part. This is because if he does not run his hand over it, the water may slide off the area and not reach it. This is what one should be careful about.
In conclusion, if these ointments are solid such that they prevent water from reaching the skin because they are like a crust on the skin, then it is necessary to remove them before purification. If they are not solid, there is no harm in them.
The questioner : May Allah reward you, O honorable Shaykh, and may Allah bless you and your knowledge, and benefit the Muslims through you.
The Shaykh : These ointments, such as Vaseline, prevent water from reaching the skin if they are solid and form a layer. However, if they are not solid, they do not prevent it. But it is recommended that if a person has some of this on his hand, foot, or any part of his body that requires ablution, he should run his hand over the place where the ointment is when he washes that part. This is because if he does not run his hand over it, the water may slide off the area and not reach it. This is what one should be careful about.
In conclusion, if these ointments are solid such that they prevent water from reaching the skin because they are like a crust on the skin, then it is necessary to remove them before purification. If they are not solid, there is no harm in them.
The questioner : May Allah reward you, O honorable Shaykh, and may Allah bless you and your knowledge, and benefit the Muslims through you.