Nose Hair Growth: Myths and Concerns Explained - Otolaryngology

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Regarding the issue of nasal hair growth?


In my student days, I often used my hands to pluck my nose hairs.
Of course, I hardly do that now; I just use small scissors to trim them.
Occasionally, when I dig for boogers, I accidentally pull out some nose hairs as well.
Recently, I've started to notice that my nose hairs don't seem as dense.
Perhaps they have been like this for a long time, but I only became aware of it now.
Although I hardly pluck my nose hairs anymore, I did remove a lot in the past.
I would like to ask if the nose hairs I plucked in the past will not grow back? Also, what should I do if my nose hairs continue to decrease? I really regret my younger self for not understanding the consequences back then.

Hsuān, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/17

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello: Generally, if the hair follicles in the nasal area are normal, plucking nasal hair should still allow for regrowth.
There are many factors that can affect the amount of nasal hair, and having less nasal hair does not have a direct impact on health.
It is recommended to simply observe.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/06/17

More Info


Nose hair, or nasal hair, plays a crucial role in our respiratory system by filtering out dust, allergens, and other particles from the air we breathe. It's important to understand the myths and concerns surrounding nose hair growth, especially in light of your experiences with plucking and trimming.

Firstly, it's a common misconception that once you pluck hair from any part of your body, it will not grow back. In the case of nose hair, this is not entirely true. When you pluck nose hair, you are removing it from the follicle, but the hair follicles themselves remain intact. This means that, in most cases, the hair will eventually grow back. However, the growth rate can vary from person to person due to factors such as genetics, age, and overall health. If you have been excessively plucking your nose hair in the past, it may take some time for the hair to return to its previous density, but it should not be permanently lost.

As for your concern about noticing a decrease in the density of your nose hair, this could be attributed to several factors. Aging is one of the primary reasons for changes in hair growth patterns, including nasal hair. As we age, hair follicles can become less active, leading to thinner hair or even hair loss in some areas. Additionally, hormonal changes can also impact hair growth. If you are experiencing a significant decrease in nose hair density, it might be worth consulting with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.

If you are concerned about the appearance or functionality of your nose hair, there are a few steps you can take to promote healthy hair growth. First, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support hair health. Nutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and B vitamins, along with minerals like zinc and iron, are essential for healthy hair growth. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can affect hair health.

Moreover, avoid aggressive hair removal methods, such as plucking, as this can irritate the skin and potentially damage the hair follicles. Instead, using small scissors to trim nose hair is a safer option. This method allows you to maintain a neat appearance without risking damage to the follicles.

If you notice that your nose hair is still sparse despite these efforts, consider consulting with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and provide personalized recommendations, which may include topical treatments or lifestyle changes that could help stimulate hair growth.

In summary, while plucking nose hair may not lead to permanent loss, it can affect the density and growth rate of your nasal hair. With proper care and attention, you can promote healthy hair growth and maintain the important filtering function of your nose hair. Remember, it's never too late to adopt healthier grooming habits and take care of your body.

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