Nose Hair Waxing: Types, Side Effects, and Alternatives

Nose and nostril waxing isn't what most people want to talk about. The mere thought of getting hair from your nose pulled out from the root may send a shiver up your spine.

There are people out there who like nose hair waxing because it lasts a long time. Unlike trimming or shaving, the hair usually stays away much longer. Waxing removes hair from the follicle, whereas trimming removes some length and shaving takes hair down to the same level as skin. But despite these advantages, there's a reason to keep some length: your nose hairs act as an air filter. If you are looking to have the service done, it's important to know what to expect and the potential risks. T

o learn more about waxing this pesky area, we spoke to Deidra Green, waxing expert and Senior Field Training Manager for European Wax Center, and dermatologists Lauren Penzi and Marisa Garshick.

The Importance of Seeing an Expert

First and foremost, Green emphasizes how important it is to see licensed Waxing Specialist who performs the service regularly. The quality of wax and waxing technique is especially important when dealing with the nose area, so choose a reputable salon or spa if you're looking to get the service done.

And while some might be tempted to try the at-home route, dermatologists say that's not the best idea. "I do not recommend waxing certain facial areas at home, including delicate areas like your nostrils where the hairs are embedded in a delicate mucosa with numerous blood vessels," says Dr. Penzi.

Garshick concurs, saying, "Generally waxing is overall safe to do on the face when performed at a trusted location, though still may have a risk of skin irritation, burn or sensitivity."

What To Expect During a Full Nose Wax

Now, you may be wondering, "How in the world do you wax inside your nose?" First, wax is applied to the tip of a small wooden applicator in the shape of a ball and allowed to cool for some time. Then the tech will place the applicator inside the nostril, not going any farther than the ball of the nose for obvious safety reasons. Then, the esthetician will pull the applicator from the nose, hopefully taking the hair with it. At European Wax Center, Green says they use an Exclusive Comfort Wax, which is a hard wax and the most effective and gentle for removing nose hairs. Also, Green says that you can choose between having both nostrils done at the same time or one at a time, depending on your comfort level.

"Although it seems like it would be a painful experience, most remark at how they don’t feel a thing and love the fact that they feel more confident not having to worry about sneaky hairs that show in their nostrils," Green says.

What About a Partial Nose Wax?

Normally, this removes the hair at the edges of the nostril—therefore, it's not as invasive as a full nose wax, but still removes the hair that usually pokes out, bothering people the most. And because the product isn't going inside the nose, you can also sugar the hair. Sugaring is gentle on skin and some say it is less than painful than waxing.

Side Effects of Waxing

Waxing the nostrils comes with the potential for infection. "Waxing this area risks injury and infection," says Penzi. "Nose hairs are essential filters that help keep bacteria and other toxins out of our respiratory system. They also help to filter the air we breathe in through our nose, so waxing the nose hairs can leave you susceptible to environmental irritants and infectious pathogens."

"As a general rule, you want to wax healthy skin," says Green. "If the skin inside the nose were irritated in any way, I would not recommend waxing until it was healed. It's also important to only wax the hairs you can see in the nostrils and not try to force wax into places you cannot see."

Green explains that with waxing can come with other side effects, too. That may include redness, some soreness, bumps, and possible ingrown hairs that come later. The nostril area is a very delicate place and it's hard to see what exactly is going on with the skin inside. Having these side effects is often more annoying and painful in the nostrils, than say, your legs or underarms. As for waxing your nose at home, many more risks come into play. Green says you could potentially break hairs which could cause ingrown hairs. Also, you could potentially burn yourself by using a waxing system or heating wax where it is difficult to regulate the temperature. "The quality of wax sold over the counter vs. professional can also be really harsh on the skin," she explains. "You may have to go over the skin or area being waxed several times, risking damage and causing irritation." Bottom line, if you are considering a nose wax, it's best to leave it for the pros.

How Often Should You Wax Your Nose?

"For most services and areas we recommend waxing every 3-4 weeks," says Green. "For more visible areas such as the face, like lips and noses, some guests come to receive waxing services every 2 weeks." Green also points out that if you begin waxing regularly, it helps to thin hair and make each visit more comfortable.

Other Options for Nixing Nose Hair

You don't need to wax... or let the hair poke out. Another way is to trim the nose hair. Fortunately, there are trimmers and scissors specifically designed for this purpose.

Remington's Nose, Ear, and Detail Trimmer ($10) comes with two trimming attachments (virtecial and rotary). Also, this trimmer can remove ear hair and trim eyebrows.

Conair's True Glow Discreet Nose & Ear Trimmer ($20) has also garnered great reviews. It uses a diamond-shaped, three-bevel blade for a safe trim.