A: The general rule of the Hanafi jurists is that if one were to intentionally and deliberately inhale any substance that is perceptible (visible) like smoke emitted from incense sticks, perfumes etc. or the vapour of perfumes in a way that it is ingested and goes down the throat, then one’s fast would become invalid. (Tahtaawi ala Maraqil Falaah, P: 660, Ilmiyyah).
Hence, if the steam from the shower is deliberately pursued and inhaled intentionally in a way that the steam goes down the throat then the fast would break. However, generally a person showering does not premeditate inhaling the shower steam or do so purposefully. Hence, the fast is valid.
In the instance of doing a facial whilst fasting, the steam is deliberately brought close to the face purposefully and inhaled. This will thus break the fast. Since this type of treatment is not serious or urgent it should be avoided whilst fasting.
And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Was Salaam
Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti) M.D. Mangera (Mufti)
Fatwa Dept. Fatwa Dept.