A hair doctor has warned that plucking hairs from inside the nostrils could lead to infections with potentially life-threatening complications. Dr Emrah Cinik, a hair transplant surgeon at Dr Cinik Hair Clinic, says people should never pluck hairs from this part of the face, even when a stray strand is sticking out.
Why plucking nose hairs is dangerous
Dr Cinik warned: “Pulling a nose hair out by the root can damage the skin around the follicle, giving bacteria a way in. What starts as a small, painful spot can develop into an infection. The most serious complications are exceptionally rare, but infections in this area can become dangerous. There is a safer way to tidy these hairs without taking that unnecessary risk.”
Plucking can cause ingrown hairs and nasal vestibulitis, an infection near the nostril opening that can leave painful sores, bleeding, and crusting. Most cases are treatable, but worsening symptoms need medical attention.
The 'danger triangle' and rare complications
The concern comes from the nose’s position within the ‘danger triangle’ of the face, where veins connect with deeper veins around the brain. In very rare cases, an infection can spread and cause cavernous sinus thrombosis, a potentially life-threatening blood clot behind the eye sockets.
Dr Cinik explained: “This is not a reason to panic if you have plucked a hair before. It is a reason to stop treating the inside of your nose like an eyebrow. Do not squeeze a painful bump or dig around with tweezers. If redness, pain, or swelling is getting worse, get medical advice rather than continuing to pick at it.”
Safer alternatives and when to seek help
A severe or worsening headache, swelling around the eyes, or changes to vision alongside an infection require urgent medical attention. For visible hairs, a clean, purpose-made nose-hair trimmer or small scissors with rounded tips offer a safer alternative to plucking or waxing.
He advised: “Only trim the ends sticking out of the nostril, using good lighting and a mirror. Do not push tools deep inside or try to remove every hair. These hairs help filter larger particles, so a small tidy-up is enough.”
