If there’s one industry that specializes in creating a need for products you never thought you’d need, it’s the beauty industry. From the next jelly tint that you’ll never use more than once, to the thousandth foundation that has a slightly different texture – it’s a never-ending cycle. Thanks to social media and the FOMO it creates, every viral product ends up in everyone’s hands.

One such product that is going viral at the moment is a hair identifier spray that claims to ‘identify’ tiny facial hairs and peach fuzz. (short facial hair) Which you cannot even see with naked eyes. All you have to do is spray it on your face, and a white powdery texture will highlight all the hair on your face, and then you can shave it off.

potential benefits?

Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon at The Aesthetic Clinics, Mumbai, says that hair identifier spray makes unwanted facial hair visible, making it easier to identify and remove.

Dr Rashmi Aderao, dermatology consultant at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, further explains that this spray has a simple purpose: to make your facial hair clearly visible so that it can be removed with precision.

• The product is promoted as a solution to ‘achieve a flawless shave by clearly highlighting the contours of your face and targeting even the tiniest of hairs’.
• It also claims to aid in better penetration of skin care products and smoother makeup application.
• This has made the spray go viral among influencers, and recently, it has caught the attention of Indian beauty influencers as well.
• Today, various brands are selling the same product, some of which are also available on online portals like Amazon, priced at Rs 800 for 130 ml, which Indians can afford.

Take a look at some viral videos:

What do the experts say?

Hair identifier spray has shocked experts because, according to them, the side effects of this product are more psychological than physical.

Dr Kapoor says that if we do not use the spray carefully, it leaves a white layer similar to shaving mousse and can accidentally enter the system through the mouth, nose and eyes and cause respiratory problems like wheezing, coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, skin and eye irritation.

But Dr Kapoor says a major issue is that “these sprays can make women more vulnerable, as they may use it occasionally just because it is convenient and this can lead to unwanted skin problems.”

“It’s a good idea not to use sprays,” she says.

Dr. Rashmi Aderao agrees. She explains that the main concern with this product is its ‘psychological effects rather than physical side effects’.

“There’s no denying that this product fuels beauty insecurities, especially among women. By emphasising facial hair that isn’t normally noticeable, it can make users extremely self-conscious. This can perpetuate a cycle of insecurity and continued hair removal, which affects self-esteem,” she adds.

Additionally, Dr. Adderao says that while the spray itself is safe since it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, it can concentrate more on facial hair and cause it to be removed in greater quantities, which can lead to skin irritation.

“For those with sensitive skin, frequent use of such sprays could lead to dryness or allergic reactions,” she says.

Moreover, it doesn’t function properly if your hair is hormonal, which can only be fixed by balancing your hormones.

Dr Kapoor warns, “This spray is being heavily promoted by influencers on social media. One should not fall prey to any products that are being blindly promoted without knowing how they work.”

How to actually remove facial hair at home?

Shaving facial hair can be an easy and comfortable process if done correctly. Remember that when shaving your facial hair, stick to the basics as trying new products can cause irritation and damage your skin barrier.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting a clean shave without any irritation:

Cleanse your face

Use warm water and a gentle facial cleanser to remove dirt and oil.

Pro TipShave after a shower or place a warm towel on your face for a few minutes. This opens up the pores and softens the hair, making it easier to shave.

Use a quality shaving cream or gel

Choose a product suitable for your skin type (Instead of using viral products) Avoid using regular soap, as it can dry out your skin and cause irritation. Instead, use a cleanser that can create a good lather.

Use a sharp razor

Choosing the right razor is very important. Whether it is a safety razor or a cartridge razor, make sure the blades are sharp. Dull blades can cause nicks, cuts, and razor burn. Also, avoid using serrated blades, as they can cause further irritation.

Memorization

• Shave in the direction your hair grows. This reduces the chances of ingrown hairs and irritation.
• Don’t press too hard. Let the razor glide over your skin, and rinse it regularly.
• Start with your cheeks, then move to your chin, upper lip, and finish at the neck. Hair in these areas varies in thickness, so leaving the thicker patches last gives the shaving cream more time to soften them.
• Finally, after shaving, rinse your face with cold water to close your pores and remove any remaining shaving cream. Follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and reduce any redness or irritation.