Side Effects of Bleaching Facial Hair

Many women use bleaching creams and solutions to lighten their facial hair. Bleaching offers an inexpensive and less painful alternative to waxing or hair removal. In addition to hair on the upper lip and chin, many women also bleach arm and chest hair. Whether done at a salon or using a premixed bleaching kit at home, the products and process for facial hair bleaching are quite safe, but potential side effects do exist.

A woman is looking at her facial hair in the mirror. (Image: VladimirFLoyd/iStock/Getty Images)

Skin Allergies

Check the ingredients of any bleaching agent before use to ensure you don't have an allergy to any of its components. If you develop a red, itchy rash after using a bleaching product, discontinue use and talk to your doctor.

Skin Irritation

It takes about 8 to 15 minutes to remove the color from facial hair and perhaps a little longer on dark hair. Fifteen minutes with a bleaching chemical on the sensitive skin of your face can cause irritation and redness. Pay close attention to the clock while bleaching facial hair because the bleach can burn your skin if left on for too long.

Red, Watery Eyes

Bleaching agents often have pungent odors although some manufacturers try to cover it with fragrances. The fumes can cause watering and redness of the eyes. Never bleach eyebrows or any other hair around the eyes.

Permanent Discoloration

Regular bleaching over time can cause the loss of hair pigments and leave your facial hair permanently white. Whether this is a negative side effect or not really depends on the individual.

Unintended Side Effect

Bleaching removes the color from the hairs resulting in white or near-white hair, so dark-skinned or tanned people may want to think twice before bleaching. It can actually make the hair on your face more visible.