When you don’t want to spend all day shaving in the bathroom, products like Nair become your first option. Nair removes hair from these areas in minutes without the bruises of razors. Still, constant use of these hair removal products will make anyone wonder, “Is Nair bad for you?”
Nair is safe and easy to use and effectively removes hair from your face and body. However, Nair’s calcium hydroxide and potassium thioglycolate components create a strong chemical reaction that can burn the skin. The effect might range from a tingling sensation to a more unpleasant burning sensation followed by a rash. Excess use could also cause chemical burns.
If these products are your favourite option for eliminating unwanted hair, you have every reason to be concerned. You’d learn more about Nair and its effects as you read further. You’ll also grab a few helpful tips to help curb the aftereffect of the hair removal lotion.
How Is Nair Bad for the Skin?
Nair is one of the most popular hair-removal products. As a less painful substitute for waxing, it has established itself as a fast, easy alternative to shaving. Nair is available in various forms, including lotions, creams, and even in-shower treatments.
The chemical in Nair destroys hair follicles. To dissolve hair follicles, the active components calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide raise the pH in the hair. After that, the hairs will be so thin that you can remove them with a simple wipe.
If these chemicals are powerful enough to melt your hair away, what adverse repercussions could they have on your skin?
Skin Irritation
Nair’s active chemical compounds may irritate the skin, especially individuals with sensitive skin. There are several degrees of skin irritation, and it usually depends on your sensitivity level. In most cases, how you preserve the product and the duration of application.
The effect might range from a moderate tingling sensation to a more unpleasant burning sensation followed by a rash. Mild skin irritations are treatable at home with aloe vera gel. However, more severe cases, including allergic reactions, require medical attention.
Chemical Burns
Using Nair, you tend to get chemical burns. Nair’s calcium hydroxide and potassium thioglycolate components create a strong chemical reaction. Such reactions can burn the skin you use for an extended period.
Although the symptoms may be mild, like redness and blister formation, they can become severe. Symptoms of severe reactions include vomiting, dizziness, fainting, and weakness. When this happens, you need medical assistance as fast as possible.
What to Do Before Using Nair
Here are some measures to take before using Nair:
Always Read the Instructions
Hair removal products come with instructions on using them and how long you should use them. Therefore, it’s good to read the manual carefully before you start applying the lotion to avoid allergic reactions. It’s not just about reading; you also have to follow the instructions carefully.
Do a Patch Test
You should always do a patch test before using any product, including Nair. You have to apply a little of the gel, cream, or lotion on a small area of your leg or arms and watch what happens.
Sometimes, there would be no adverse effects, meaning that the product works well with your skin. In other cases, the skin gets red, itchy, or painful. Stop using it and consult a doctor right away when you notice this.
If your test patch went well, go ahead, and apply Nair to the rest of your body. Still, avoid sensitive areas like the underarm or bikini area.
Don’t Leave Nair on Your Skin Longer Than Necessary
Usually, you leave this product on for at least three to ten minutes. Never leave Nair on your skin for longer than the instructions suggest.
Using Nair for longer than the specified period can result in a significant chemical burn. Regardless of how stubborn a particular patch of hair appears to be, only use the product for the recommended time.
Conclusion
Nair has several advantages, making it one of the preferable methods to remove hair from the skin. For one, it only takes a few minutes to melt the strands, and you can wipe them off with a washcloth.
However, those wondering, “Is Nair bad for you?” have good reasons to be concerned as the product also has adverse effects. To avoid these, follow the instructions of Nair or quit using it altogether.
