Halachot and Customs
Is It Permissible to Use Deodorant on Shabbat?
Question
In Hashem’s name, hello, honored rabbi, is it permissible on Shabbat to use spray deodorant that leaves a white color on the body? And is it permissible on Shabbat to use non-spray deodorant?
Thank you very much
Answer
Greetings,
A. If this white color does not last, it is certainly permitted (regarding the prohibition of dyeing, see at length in Responsa Yabia Omer, volume 6, Orach Chayim, section 37, and in Responsa Yechaveh Daat, volume 4, section 28. And regarding why there is no prohibition of scattering and creating fragrance, see Responsa Yechaveh Daat, volume 6, section 25).
B. It is forbidden to use solid deodorant on Shabbat because of the prohibition of smoothing/spreading.
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
