Daily Halacha - Shabbat Laws, 18th of Av 5777
Essential guide to Shabbat observance based on the rulings of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef
Is it permissible to cut one's nails on Shabbat?
One who cuts their nails, hair, or mustache with an instrument is liable. If one removes them with their hands, they are exempt but it is still forbidden [Yalkut Yosef Siman 340].
A nail that has mostly separated but remains partially attached to the body - if it causes discomfort, it is permitted to remove it by hand or with one's teeth [Shulchan Aruch 328, 31].
However, the strips of skin around the nail may not be removed on Shabbat even by hand, and even if they have mostly separated and are causing discomfort [ibid].
Ach Tov VaChesed - Daily Halacha
