From the Research
Sneezing after eyebrow epilation is most likely caused by the trigeminal-autonomic reflex, which is triggered by the stimulation of nerve endings in the eyebrow area connected to the trigeminal nerve, as supported by the most recent study 1. This phenomenon is similar to how bright light can make some people sneeze (photic sneeze reflex). The intensity of this reaction varies from person to person based on individual sensitivity. Some key points to consider:
- The trigeminal nerve plays a crucial role in the sneezing reflex, as it transmits signals from the nasal mucosa to the brain, which then triggers the sneezing response 1.
- The sneezing reflex can be triggered by various stimuli, including nasal irritation, bright light, and physical stimulants of the trigeminal nerve 2.
- While sneezing is a normal and harmless reflex in most cases, it can be a sign of underlying medical conditions in some instances, and it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with sneezing, such as injuries to the intrathoracic, laryngeal/pharyngeal, ocular/orbital, intracranial/neurological, otologic, and other areas 3. To minimize sneezing while plucking, you might try:
- Applying a cold compress to numb the area beforehand
- Using a topical numbing cream containing lidocaine (following package instructions)
- Taking an antihistamine about 30 minutes before plucking if the reaction is particularly bothersome It's essential to note that sneezing is a natural reflex, and attempting to suppress it can lead to more harm than good, as it can result in increased airway pressure and potentially cause injuries 3. Therefore, it's recommended to allow the sneeze to proceed without intervention, unless it becomes extremely uncomfortable or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms.