Hair removal creams will always be popular since man has always battled against unwanted body hair. Whether it's leg hair, facial hair, or armpit hair, the majority always want to have silky smooth skin.
One of the more popular products in the market for hair removal is Nair. While Nair is primarily marketed for body hair removal, some head shavers might be tempted to try it on their scalp.
Join me as we find out if we can use Nair on your head.
What is Nair?
Nair has been in the market of hair removal creams for over 80 years, and they're still going strong.
Nair is a "hair remover body cream," as seen on its label for men's body cream. This gives you a clue on whether or not we can use it for our heads.
Nair is marketed to those who want to get rid of unwanted body hair quickly and efficiently without the hassle of razor burn or bumps due to shaving or the pain of waxing.
Can you use Nair on your Head? Things to consider before putting it on your head.
Many people have used Nair to remove hair, and it's proven to be convenient and practical. But applying it to your scalp? This requires careful consideration.
Remember the clue we noticed on the Nair bottle? "hair remover body cream." It also says hair remover for the back, chest, arms, and legs.
That says a lot right there. Nair isn't formulated or designed for head hair removal.
So, are you brave enough to use a body hair removal cream for your scalp?
There's a Nair Face and Bikini Depilatory Cream, but again, there's no mention of "head."
While there's a Nair product for every body part, there is no specific product for the head.
For me, it's like "Caveat Emptor" or "let the buyer beware" with Nair if you try to use it on your head.
Here are factors and information that you need to consider before even thinking about applying Nair to your head.
Nair is a depilatory cream
Depilatory creams are hair removal creams that are formulated to dissolve the protein structure in hair, allowing it to be wiped off easily. It works by targeting the sulfur bonds in the hair shaft, which weakens the hair structure.
Nair may cause allergic reactions
One of the biggest concerns for using Nair on your head is the chance of allergic reactions. Nair contains chemicals that may irritate the skin. Remember, our scalp is one of the more sensitive areas in our body.
Applying Nair to the sensitive skin on your head may cause redness, itching, or a burning sensation similar to razor burn.
If you do decide to use Nair on your head, do a small patch test on your hand first and see how it reacts.
Nair can only stay on the skin for a maximum of 10 minutes
Based on their product usage guide, Nair can only stay on your skin for a maximum of 10 minutes. If it stays longer, there's no information on what could happen, but they do warn users to follow all warnings and directions on their product package.
You also can't rub Nair on your skin. If you accidentally do, you risk skin irritation.
It lasts longer than shaving
While Nair may last longer than shaving, you need to weigh the potential risks vs benefits. Nair says that their product is safe when used as directed, and all warnings are followed.
The potential for things to go haywire is there.
Active Ingredients in Nair Products
The active ingredients in Nair hair removal creams are potassium thioglycolate and calcium hydroxide. These two are organic compounds that weaken the hair shaft by breaking the keratin proteins that hold it together. Ideally kept on the skin for short periods, these ingredients are why Nair has been influential in the hair removal market.
I can imagine how aggressive these chemicals are. Imagine applying Nair for a few minutes, and your hair comes off instantly.
If you're willing to apply that to your extra sensitive scalp, you're risking a lot.
The Safest and Most Efficient Way to Remove Hair On Our Heads: Head Shaving
Considering the potential risks of applying Nair on your head, other methods are safer and as effective in head hair removal: Head Shaving.
Here are the top reasons to choose head shaving rather than applying Nair to your scalp:
No exposure to harsh chemicals
Picture this: you have an important business meeting, and you want to look your best. You decide to use Nair on your head but accidentally get some on your eyebrows; how can you face your VIP clients then? I can't stop laughing just thinking about it. Imagine answering your toddler when he asks you, "Dad, what happened to your eyebrows?"
Worst-case scenario, you accidentally rub Nair on your eyes.
With head shaving, you're in control. It's straightforward and as efficient, if not faster, than using Nair. The best thing about it is it doesn't involve a chemistry experiment on your head.
I always remember my initial experience with razor burn and how I told myself that I wouldn't want to experience that again.
Playing Russian Roulette with Nair on my scalp, no thanks.
I'll stick with my trusted and reliable Freebird FlexSeries shaver that works well with my sensitive skin.
Scalp Exfoliation
Did you know that head shaving doesn't just give you a smooth dome but also exfoliates your scalp?
Dead skin cells are gently removed while you shave, giving you a smoother and healthier scalp. You can also use a scalp exfoliator for even better results.
Conclusion
Nair is a good product for hair removal; they wouldn't last 80 years in the market if they weren't. However, when we talk about using Nair on our heads, that's another story.
For me, the potential risks far outweigh the benefits of using Nair on our sensitive scalp.
Head shaving is still the preferred method if you want a safe and efficient head hair removal experience.
If you are looking for the best head shaver, you can check out our guide.
