Read up to make sure you don’t include this common habit in your routine!
Caring for oneself plays a crucial role in fostering both mental and physical well-being. Just envision the tranquility that washes over you post a comforting hot shower or indulging in a bubble bath, enriched with the fragrance of essential oils or your beloved bath bombs.
But did you know that nose hair removal could make you sick?
People have different preferences regarding body hair removal, often opting for a smooth look on areas like legs and underarms. Nose hair, too, often comes under the spotlight for grooming purposes, driven by aesthetic desires.
However, health professionals have alerted the public to potential health dangers associated with the removal of these hairs.
American otolaryngologist Dr. Don Beasley, an expert in ear, nose, and throat care, stressed to HuffPost the vulnerability of the nasal region, which houses a multitude of blood vessels and mucous membranes.
Contrary to popular belief, nostril hairs serve a purpose. New York-based dermatologist Dr. Michael Jacobs, who is board-certified, revealed to Huffpost: “The primary role of nose hairs is to trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles in the air so that the air you breathe is partially filtered.”
These hairs form a physical shield against allergens, reducing their chance of infiltrating the nasal passages and causing issues.
Dr. Beasley further elucidated: “When something touches the nostril hairs, such as a small insect or other irritants, it triggers a reflexive sneeze, which is the body’s way of expelling the intruder or irritant.”
He added, “Nose hairs trap moisture from exhaled air, preventing the nasal passages from becoming too dry. This moisture helps to humidify the air we breathe, making it more comfortable for our respiratory system.”
Potential Risks Associated with Nose Waxing
By removing nasal hairs entirely, you’re eliminating this crucial filtration system, leaving yourself prone to nasal infections like vestibulitis and abscess.
Otolaryngologist Dr. Nicole Aaronson noted: “While waxing doesn’t necessarily weaken the immune system, it does breach the skin barrier by creating openings for bacteria to get into the deeper tissues, thus creating the opportunity for infection.”
Waxing, especially when performed by an amateur, may lead to additional side effects. Overheated wax can inflict burns on the nasal mucosa – the tissue lining the nasal cavity – raising infection risks. Waxing can generally be irritating to the skin as well.
“Nose waxing can be an uncomfortable experience, as the delicate nasal passages can be sensitive to the pulling sensation, potentially causing temporary pain, redness, and irritation.”
Ingrown hairs pose another concern for those who wax.
Dr. Aaronson explained: “An ingrown hair occurs after a hair is removed when the new hair that regenerates from the follicle can’t break through the skin. Because waxing pulls out the hair by the roots, the hair must find its way out through the outer layer of the skin again (unlike other hair removal methods where the hair is left at the skin’s surface).”
Alternative Methods of Nasal Hair Removal
Dr. Aaronson also cautioned against plucking nose hairs, linking this practice to nasal abscesses. Instead, safely trimming the hairs using sterilized eyebrow scissors or an electric trimmer is recommended.
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