Otolaryngologists reveal the crucial reason why you should never, ever remove your nostril hairs.
Removing body hair is a personal decision, and there is no definitive answer as to whether it's right or wrong. When done properly with sanitized tools, it can result in smooth skin. However, a medical expert has now cautioned against removing nose hair and unveiled the unpleasant consequences that can occur when things go awry.
Dr. Don J. Beasley, an otolaryngologist based in Idaho, warns that removing nasal hair through methods like waxing or tweezing can pose a dangerous risk to your nose.
In an interview with HuffPost, the ear, nose, and throat specialist elaborated on the delicate nature of the nose, which houses multiple blood vessels and mucous membranes.
He stated, "Nose waxing can be an uncomfortable experience, as the sensitive nasal passages may react to the pulling sensation, leading to temporary pain, redness, and irritation."
A medical professional has provided insight into the reasons why removing nose hair should be avoided, and has disclosed the unpleasant consequences that can arise when the procedure goes awry (stock image).
He further explained that the hair inside the nostrils serves several crucial functions, acting as a filter for the air we breathe and capturing airborne particles like dust and pollen that can cause irritation.
Moreover, he highlighted a concerning fact that removing nose hair, especially in an unhygienic manner, may raise the risk of infections and complications, such as folliculitis or nasal cellulitis.
Dr. Nicole Aaronson, another otolaryngologist based in Delaware, shared her experience of having to drain nasal abscesses in patients who had plucked their nostril hairs, resulting in ingrown hairs.
An ingrown hair occurs when a hair is removed, and the new hair that grows back from the follicle struggles to break through the skin.
The warning against nose hair removal comes amid the rise in popularity of dermaplaning or full-face shaving on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Many users claim it gives their skin a flawless appearance, with historical figures like Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and Cleopatra reportedly having shaved their faces as part of their beauty routines.
However, Dr. Ross Perry of Cosmedics advises against such DIY facial hair removal techniques, emphasizing that having fine facial hair is normal and should not lead to pressure to shave the face. Shaving facial hair at home can lead to thicker regrowth and may cause acne breakouts or skin reactions.
Dr. Perry recommends seeking professional help for dermaplaning, a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layers of skin, to ensure it is done safely and effectively. Following professional advice and avoiding copying social media trends is essential to maintaining skin health and safety.
Dr. Ross explained that dermaplaning is a well-established method of removing unwanted facial hair. It involves painlessly scraping away facial hair while also eliminating dead skin cells, resulting in smoother-looking skin. This popular salon treatment uses a painless blade and can give the skin a flawless appearance, making makeup application smoother.
However, he strongly advised against attempting dermaplaning or shaving the face with a razor at home, particularly during lockdown when salons were closed. He highlighted the difference between vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is the nearly invisible peach fuzz that covers much of the face and body, playing a role in regulating temperature and evaporating sweat. Terminal hair, on the other hand, is darker and thicker and can be found on areas like the upper and lower lips, sideburns, neck, and chin. While dermaplaning can be used on both types of hair professionally, using a razor or blade at home can lead to skin scarring, infections, ingrown hairs, and sensitivity. Additionally, home dermaplaning would require frequent repetition.
For individuals with skin conditions like acne or eczema, shaving the face can worsen inflammation, sensitivity, and pigmentation. Dr. Ross also warned about the possibility of developing a "five o'clock shadow," especially for those with terminal hair, which can lead to painful ingrown hairs and bumps on the skin. Using a razor can result in sensitive cuts that might lead to infections and scarring.
Furthermore, he dispelled the myth that shaving the face will cause hair to grow back thicker and faster. Shaving merely blunts the hair edges, giving the impression of coarser stubble when it grows back, but it does not actually change the hair's thickness.
%20(1)-Photoroom.png)