Medications, Cosmetics, and Toiletries MEDICATIONS- Halachically, any pill or non-chewable tablet medication may be swallowed, regardless of its contents (this does not apply to vitamins). We list some chometz-free pills and tablet medications for the benefit of those who wish to be stringent and use only chometz-free products. COSMETICS AND TOILETRIES – All non-food items not fit for canine consumption - nifsal mei’achilas kelev - may be used on Pesach. This includes all creams, ointments, lotions, body soaps, shampoos, conditioners and stick deodorants, regardless of their contents. Similarly, cosmetics such as nail polish, nail polish remover, mascara, eye shadow, eye liner, blush and rouge may be used on Pesach, regardless of their contents. This is also true of shoe polish, ink, paint, and air freshener. In all of these examples, any chometz would be inedible, even for a dog, and one may derive benefit from these products on Pesach (in conformance with the halachos of Yom Tov). Items containing denatured alcohol which are in a pure liquid state should be sold with the chometz and not be used on Pesach, unless it is confirmed that they do not contain chometz. Some examples include cologne, perfume, hair spray, mousse, liquid deodorants, sunscreen and shaving lotion. Mouthwash and toothpaste which contain chometz should not be used on Pesach. It is recommended to use a new and chometz-free lipstick for Pesach. This is a very partial list, for Pesach 5782 / 2022 only. The omission of any specific brand or product does not necessarily imply that it contains chometz or that it is not permissible for use on Pesach. - This list refers only to products manufactured in the U.S. Products manufactured in other countries, including Canada, even with the same brand names, may have different formulations. - Most of the medications, cosmetics and toiletries listed are not under supervision and their listing here, taken primarily from Rabbi Bess’ list and based on information from the manufacturer, pertains only to their lack of chometz, not to the general Kashrus of their ingredients. Many of the medications contain kitniyos, which is permissible when taken for medicinal purposes. – Many items are available from Adwe Products with Kosher for Pesach certification, and are certified free of chometz, kitniyos and animal derivatives. An extensive coverage of medications, cosmetics and toiletries which are acceptable for Pesach, prepared by Rabbi Gershon Bess, is available from the Kollel Bais Avrohom of Los Angeles, and may be ordered by calling the Kollel at (323) 933-7193. It is also available locally at Borenstein’s and Spitzer’s Bookstores. Updates to the list will be posted at kehilasyaakov.org. No one should refrain from taking any required medication, even if it contains chometz, without first consulting his physician and Rav. Register online to receive email updates: cordetroit.com/pesach 28
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