There’s nothing more frustrating than spotting a stray hair in the wrong place, until you see what actually happens when you pluck it.
Unwanted hairs can be a nuisance, and in the quest for smooth skin, reaching for a pair of tweezers often seems like the easiest solution. You might not think twice about it beyond a quick sting of pain, or even find the process oddly satisfying.
However, a viral simulation created by Zackdfilms offers a shocking look at what’s really happening beneath the surface of your skin when you pluck a hair.
The Hidden Consequences of Plucking
Thin, over-plucked eyebrows were a major trend in the late ’90s and early 2000s, with many embracing the ‘barely-there brows’ look. But for those who plucked too often, the reality of this simulation may explain why some never regained their full brow shape.
Zackdfilms, a YouTube creator known for his bizarre yet fascinating animated explainers, has captivated his 19 million followers with this eye-opening visualization. The video breaks down what happens when a hair is forcefully removed:
1. The Root is Torn Out – Plucking doesn’t just remove the visible hair—it rips out the entire root from deep within the skin.
2. Follicle Damage – This can damage the hair follicle, causing new growth to emerge at odd angles.
3. Ingrown Hairs & Irritation – A new hair may struggle to break through the surface, getting trapped under the skin and leading to painful, swollen bumps.
4. Permanent Hair Loss – Repeated plucking can damage follicles so severely that they stop producing hair altogether.
Why you shouldn’t pluck hairs
Credit: zackdfilms pic.twitter.com/c0WRibo6X1
— Interesting STEM (@InterestingSTEM) May 9, 2024
The Risks of Ingrown Hairs
The NHS notes that while ingrown hairs aren’t necessarily dangerous, they often appear as itchy, blistered bumps and can be painful. Common areas for ingrown hairs include the face, neck, legs, armpits, chest, back, and pubic region.
In severe cases, the Mayo Clinic warns that ingrown hairs can lead to bacterial infections, hyperpigmentation, scarring, or even keloids if left untreated.
The Verdict: Think Before You Pluck
The disturbing visuals in Zackdfilms’ simulation might make you reconsider ever using tweezers again. If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, experts recommend alternative hair removal methods like trimming, shaving with proper technique, or professional treatments such as laser hair removal.
For those who love science-driven curiosities, Zackdfilms’ channel explores even more mind-blowing topics, including what happens if you’re swallowed by a whale, the dangers lurking under your fingernails, and even the eerie history of shrunken human heads.
Would you still pluck your hair after seeing this?
