A hair transplant surgeon has warned against plucking hairs from inside the nostrils, saying the habit can lead to a rare but potentially fatal infection. Dr Emrah Cinik of Dr Cinik Hair Clinic explained that pulling a nose hair out by the root can damage the skin around the follicle and let bacteria in.
Why plucking nose hairs is dangerous
According to Dr Cinik, 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. The practice can also lead to ingrown hairs and nasal vestibulitis, an infection near the nostril entrance that may cause painful sores, bleeding, and crusting.
While most cases are treatable, deteriorating symptoms require medical attention, the surgeon said.
The 'danger triangle' of the face
The concern stems from the nose's location within the 'danger triangle' of the face, an area where veins are connected to deeper veins surrounding the brain. In extremely rare instances, an infection can spread and result in cavernous sinus thrombosis, a potentially life-threatening blood clot behind the eye sockets.
Dr Cinik said: "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
Should an infection be accompanied by a severe or worsening headache, swelling around the eyes, or changes to vision, urgent medical attention is required. For those concerned about visible hairs, a clean, purpose-made nose-hair trimmer or small scissors with rounded tips provide a far safer option than plucking or waxing.
Dr Cinik 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."
