There are a lot of questions surrounding the use of Nair.
Recently, I wrote a post “Does Nair Cause Cancer?” and it became popular.
After that post, I found a lot of other questions that prospective users of the product may have.
One question that keeps popping up is, “Does Nair have side effects?” Of course, there are possible side effects you may experience when using Nair.
This post will educate you on that so you can know what to expect.
Also Read:
What are Possible Nair Side Effects?
Some of the most reported side effects of Nair many users have experienced include:
- Skin redness
- Stinging
- Burning sensation
- Itching
Nair Side Effects: Possible Reasons
Questionable Ingredients
When reading the ingredients and warnings on the product, the makers do report that potential side effects can include allergic reactions, discomfort, and irritation.
Depilatories such as Nair work by dissolving hair with chemicals such as potassium hydroxide and calcium hydroxide.
These toxins not only dissolve the hair but can also irritate the skin, potentially for months.
Brands such as Nair and Veet are approved for use by the FDA but come with warnings since the chemicals in these products are strong.
Risk of Cancer: True or False?
There have not been any studies at this time that definitively link Nair and similar product usage to cancer.
This does not mean that it cannot cause harmful effects though. Chemical burns are potential side effects and can cause long-term skin damage.
It is possible that with extended use, individuals may increase their risk of skin cancer due to repeated exposure to chemicals.
While this has not been proven definitively, most dermatologists recommend alternate methods for hair removal such as shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal.
Is Nair Carcinogenic?
No, Nair isn’t carcinogenic. Typically, the FDA and other government agencies don’t approve products that are carcinogenic.
In other words, if the use of a depilatory cream like Nair or an ingredient in it can cause cancer, then such a product will not be in the market for people to consume.
This welfare protection covers both humans and animals.
Therefore, the fact that products like Nair and Veet are still on the market shows they are safe to use.
In addition to that, there is no evidence or study linking ingredients in Nair to cancer.
The only questionable one is calcium hydroxide. But still no evidence to prove it is carcinogenic.
Some experts, however, have recommended not using it because of its high chemical content which can cause skin irritation.
So, if you have sensitive skin or are too afraid to use it on your skin, you may want to look for alternatives such as shaving or waxing.
Is Nair FDA Approved?
Yes, Nair is FDA-approved.
This means that the manufacturer is allowed to continue the production of Nair as well as put it on the market for sale.
It also means that Nair and other products like Veet are safe to use on your skin. Both are effective hair removal creams which a lot of people still use up till now.
Do Depilatory Creams Cause Cancer?
Most time, the most important thing in a depilatory cream is the ingredient.
It is the composition of ingredients that will determine how effective it is. It will also determine whether it is safe for use or not.
In most cases, Nair and other hair removal creams often have side effects, mostly negative.
Some are short-term while others are long terms.
Side effects aside, there has not been any evidence that depilatory creams can lead to cancer, which is why a lot of people still use them and while you still see them on the market.
It is for you to determine if you want to use them or not.
What Does Nair Do?
The job of Nair is easy. It helps remove hair (temporarily) from the body.
Nair, a self-administer depilatory is a hair removal cream that helps break down hair follicles and shed hair from the skin.
You can apply it anywhere on the skin where you want to remove hair.
Remember, Nair hair removal is temporary, especially if you’re using it for the first time.
The only proven way to remove hair permanently right now is through the laser hair removal method.
That, unfortunately, can be quite expensive. The reason why a lot of people opt for Nair and other depilatory hair removal creams.
Is Nair Cruelty-free?
Nair is not cruelty-free. Most depilatory brands, including Nair and Veet, often test on animals and as part of their dermatologist testing.
Veet and Nair are the most popular.
Fortunately, there are a few options that are cruelty-free or vegan that you can look into if you’re looking for a solid option that doesn’t violate animal rights on ethical grounds.
Unfortunately, there are no specific laws that prohibit brands from testing on animals, except in some places like Korea where it is prohibited.
Can Nair Cause Chemical Burns?
Yes, Nair can cause chemical burns due to the strong chemical components in the product.
Even when you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter, you might experience some redness, small blisters on the skin, stinging, or burning sensation.
According to Healthline, you should wipe/rinse off the cream immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Is Nair Bad for Your Legs, Skin, and Face?
No, Nair is not bad for your legs, skin, or face. You can use it on your face, legs, and any other part of your body.
The only thing you want to do is make sure it doesn’t stay too long as it can cause chemical burns.
You should only use it for a few minutes and rinse it off so it doesn’t burn your skin.
If you’re experiencing any burning symptoms, wash off the cream immediately. Also, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions properly when using.
Alternatives to Nair: Any Option?
There are dozens of alternative hair remover creams you can look at if you don’t want to use Nair. Here are some of the popular ones:
- Cocoa Butter Hair Remover Lotion
- Veet Gel Hair Remover Cream
- Moom for Men Organic Hair Remover
- Grocerism Hair Removal Cream
- Finishing Touch Flawless Hair Remover
Is Nair Bad for You Long Term?
While it doesn’t have harmful substances, Nair is not a long-term solution to hair removal.
First, you can’t use it as permanent hair removal, it doesn’t work for that.
However, it is effective when removing hair now as it breaks down the hair shaft and keratin, which also kills the hair.
But as it contains strong chemicals, it may have negative effects over the long run.