So, you've received an unpleasant comment about your unsightly nose hairs, and you're wondering how to get rid of them. While plucking may seem like a quick fix, it's essential to understand the dangers involved. Here are three compelling reasons why you should avoid plucking your nose hair.
Your nose contains delicate nerves, follicles, and a significant amount of bacteria. Plucking your nose hair can damage the sensitive skin lining the inside of your nostrils, allowing germs to enter your body – introducing a variety of problems like infections, ingrown hairs and even inflammation.
1. Infection
Plucking your nose hair is a common cause of Nasal Vestibulitis, an infection that occurs inside the nostrils. Symptoms include bumps, irritation, and occasional pain in your nose. It's crucial to refrain from picking or scratching these growths as it can worsen the infection by creating additional skin tears.
Not only does Nasal Vestibulitis cause discomfort, but it can also lead to more severe complications if left untreated. The infection can spread to nearby areas, causing cellulitis, a skin infection characterised by redness, warmth, and swelling. Additionally, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause a condition called sepsis, which is a life-threatening response to infection.
2. Ingrown Hairs
Similar to waxing, plucking nose hair can result in ingrown hairs. As the hair grows back, it may curl into the follicle before reaching the skin surface. These curled-up hairs beneath the skin cause bumps, discomfort, and potential inflammation.
The trapped hair and the surrounding inflamed tissue create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to folliculitis. This condition presents as small red bumps, often filled with pus, and can be itchy or painful.
3. Inflammation
In severe cases, plucking nose hairs can lead to Nasal Furunculosis, a deep infection of a hair follicle characterised by swelling and pain. This infection can even spread to the blood vessels reaching the brain, potentially causing Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis — a condition where blood clots form behind the eye sockets. If left untreated, this condition can be life-threatening and may lead to permanent brain damage.
Alternative Ways to Remove Your Nose Hair
To avoid these problems, opt for the safer method of trimming your nose hair instead. Contrary to popular belief, trimming does not cause hair to grow back thicker or faster. It's important to maintain the density of nose hair to keep pathogens and other particles from entering our lungs. An electric nose hair trimmer provides a painless and effective way to maintain your nose hair, such as the Orbit™ Trimmer from BOVEM.
Plucking nose hair is detrimental to your nasal health due to the sensitivity of the skin lining your nostrils. It increases the risk of infection, ingrown hairs, and inflammation. When selecting a hair removal method, prioritise gentle techniques and pay attention to how your skin reacts to your grooming routine. By making informed choices, you can ensure a healthier and more comfortable nose.
