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Nose hair removal can cause little-known side effects. This is why doctors are warning about this cosmetic practice.
Hair removal is a personal choice that can help you feel more comfortable and better about yourself. However, there is one area that some doctors say you should avoid: the inside of your nose. Here’s why.
Why you shouldn’t pluck nose hair?
Many doctors agree that it is best to leave nose hairs intact.The nose is a delicate area, containing many blood vessels and mucous membranes”Dr. Don J. Beasley, a board-certified otolaryngologist based in Idaho, tells The Huffington Post. Plus, nose hair matters.
“The main role of nose hair is to trap dust, pollen and other airborne particles so that the air you breathe is partially filtered”Dr. Michael Jacobs, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, tells HuffPost. He explains that hair acts as a physical barrier, preventing these allergens from entering the nasal passages and potentially causing irritation or damage to the respiratory system.
Nose hair also plays a protective role by alerting us to potential dangers, Dr. Beasley told Huffpost.When an object touches the nose hairs, such as a small insect or other irritants, it triggers a sneeze reflex, which is the body’s way of expelling the intruder or irritant”he explained.
What are the risks?
Whether performed at home or in a salon, nose hair removal, especially if performed without proper hygiene practices, can increase the risk of infection, leading to complications such as folliculitis or nasal cellulitis.
“While waxing does not necessarily weaken the immune system, it does break down the skin barrier, creating openings for bacteria to enter deeper tissues, creating a risk of infection.”said Dr. Nicole Aaronson, a board-certified otolaryngologist based in Delaware.
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