Watch: Is plucking hair a bad idea? Here’s what really happens beneath the skin

Plucking unwanted hair might seem like a quick fix, but have you ever wondered what happens beneath the skin when the hair is pulled out? While many people swear by tweezers for a clean look, frequent plucking can have some unwanted side effects. From ingrown hairs to skin irritation, Here’s the truth behind hair plucking and whether it can lead to strawberry legs.

Plucking removes hair directly from the root, which can make the skin appear smoother. However, the process also damages the hair follicle. When a hair is forcibly removed, the follicle experiences trauma, leading to redness and inflammation. Over time, repeated plucking can make the follicle weak or even stop hair growth entirely, which is what most people would want!


One of the most common side effects of plucking is . When a hair is removed, the new hair might not grow back straight. Instead, it can curl back under the skin, causing small red bumps, irritation, and sometimes even painful infections. Areas like the legs, underarms, and bikini line are especially prone to this issue.

The medical term for strawberry legs is . Strawberry legs refer to dark spots or open pores that resemble the seeds of a strawberry. While shaving is a common culprit, plucking can also contribute to this condition. When hair is removed, pores may remain open, allowing dirt, bacteria, and oil to clog them. This results in the darkened appearance associated with strawberry legs.


Beyond ingrown hairs and skin irritation, repeated plucking can have long-term effects on skin health. Some other concerns include:



If plucking is a preferred hair removal method for someone, here are some ways to minimise damage: