$Unique_ID{BRK01004}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Is There a Danger in Clipping Protruding Nose Hairs?}
$Subject{nose hair treatment}
$Volume{L-20, L-6}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There a Danger in Clipping Protruding Nose Hairs?


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QUESTION:  I have a lush growth of hairs right inside my nostrils on both
sides.  If I don't trim them, they protrude, irritating me and causing me to
sneeze and looking just terrible.  However, when I do try to cut them back, my
wife screams at me that they are there for a purpose and that all kinds of
calamity will befall me if I don't quit.  Please, Dr. Bruckheim, tell me what
to do, so I can show your article to my concerned spouse.

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ANSWER:  Well your wife does have a point, the hairs that grow inside our
nostrils do serve a function.  By partially blocking the opening, large size
particles of dirt and dust are strained out, and are prevented from entering
our air passages when breathing.  The size and caliber of these hairs differ
from person to person, and while most individuals have no problems, they may
be thick and voluminous in others.  When they become too luxuriant, I see no
danger in carefully clipping them back to a more discrete look.  All you need
is a good mirror, a pair of fine scissors and a steady hand.  Nail clippers
and other cutting tools should be avoided, as accidents can happen and this is
a bad place to sustain a cut.  To be honest, I have seen many a fine barber in
my day, who made this procedure into a real art, and solved the problem during
a regular haircut visit.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
