Brandi Glanville Suffers Chemical Burns from Nair Facial Application

RHOBH Alum Brandi Glanville Suffers Chemical Burns Attempting DIY Parasite Removal

Los Angeles, CA – Former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Brandi Glanville, 52, is recovering after a home remedy to eliminate a suspected facial parasite resulted in important chemical burns. Glanville detailed the incident in a TikTok video posted Sunday, revealing she attempted to use the hair removal product Nair in a bid to eradicate the unwelcome guest.

“I know I look attractive,” Glanville quipped in the video, sarcastically referencing her visibly irritated skin. “Good news,you don’t have to spend a lot of money on peels and lasers anymore.”

The ordeal stems from a condition Glanville first publicly discussed in December 2024, attributing facial swelling and tooth loss to a parasite she believes she contracted during filming for “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip” in Morocco in January 2023. She has reportedly spent over $70,000 on medical consultations and non-invasive procedures to diagnose and treat the issue, including a period on expensive IV antibiotics.

Glanville jokingly named the parasite “Caroline,” a pointed reference to fellow reality star Caroline Manzo, who accused Glanville of sexual assault during the morocco trip – allegations Glanville vehemently denies. The accusations led to both women leaving the production.

In her TikTok post, Glanville claimed the Nair did move the parasite to a different location on her face, but warned against replicating her experiment. “Nair is the fountain of youth, I figured it out,” she stated, “But I overdid it… seven minutes, don’t do it.”

Beyond the Headlines: The Risks of DIY Medical Treatments

Glanville’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of self-treating medical conditions. While the internet offers a wealth of information, attempting to diagnose and treat ailments without professional medical guidance can led to serious complications.

Chemical burns, like those suffered by Glanville, require immediate medical attention and can result in scarring, infection, and long-term skin damage. Nair, and similar depilatory products, contain strong chemicals designed to dissolve hair, and are not intended for use on sensitive facial skin or for internal applications.Parasitic Infections: When to Seek medical Help

Facial swelling and unexplained tooth loss can be symptoms of a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from common allergies to more serious infections. While parasitic infections are relatively uncommon in the United States, they can occur through contaminated food or water, insect bites, or travel to certain regions.

Symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include:

Persistent facial swelling
Unexplained tooth loss
Visible skin lesions or rashes
Fever
Fatigue
Unintentional weight loss

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is indeed crucial to consult a qualified healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Relying on unverified information or attempting self-treatment can delay proper care and perhaps worsen your condition.

Glanville has not provided updates on her recovery as of this writing.

Why is facial skin more vulnerable to chemical burns from hair removal products like Nair compared to body skin?

The incident: What Happened to Brandi Glanville?

reality TV personality Brandi Glanville recently experienced a painful incident involving a Nair facial product, resulting in significant chemical burns. The incident, widely reported across entertainment news outlets, highlights the potential dangers of using hair removal products on the face, even those marketed for sensitive areas. Glanville detailed the experience on her podcast, Unfiltered, describing a severe reaction after using the Nair facial hair remover. Initial reports indicate the burns occurred despite following the product’s instructions. This incident raises questions about product safety, proper usage, and potential allergic reactions.

Understanding Chemical Burns from Hair Removal Products

Chemical burns occur when a substance causes damage to the skin through a chemical reaction. In the case of hair removal products like Nair, the active ingredient – typically thioglycolic acid – breaks down the protein structure of hair. However, if left on too long, or used improperly, this chemical can also damage skin cells, leading to:

Redness and Inflammation: Immediate signs of irritation.

Blistering: A more severe reaction indicating deeper skin damage.

Pain and Burning Sensation: Intense discomfort at the application site.

Scarring: Potential long-term damage depending on the severity of the burn.

hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin in the affected area.

Nair, and similar depilatory creams, are designed for specific body areas and not generally recommended for facial use due to the skin’s increased sensitivity. Facial skin is thinner and more prone to irritation than skin on other parts of the body.

Brandi Glanville’s Experience: Details & Aftermath

Brandi Glanville’s account of the incident is notably concerning. She described using the Nair facial hair remover for a short period, yet still experiencing a significant adverse reaction. She reported immediate burning and redness, quickly escalating to blistering and significant pain.

She sought medical attention and is currently undergoing treatment for the chemical burns. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, Glanville has publicly warned others against using similar products on their faces. She emphasized the importance of patch testing and carefully reading product instructions.

Why Facial Skin is More Vulnerable

The face presents unique challenges when it comes to hair removal. Several factors contribute to its increased vulnerability:

Thinner Skin: facial skin is substantially thinner than skin on the legs or arms.

Increased sensitivity: The face has a higher concentration of nerve endings, making it more sensitive to irritation.

Proximity to Eyes & Mucous Membranes: Accidental contact with the eyes or mouth can cause severe damage.

Higher Blood Flow: Increased blood flow can accelerate the absorption of chemicals, intensifying the reaction.

Alternatives to Chemical Hair Removal on the Face

given the risks associated with chemical hair removal on the face, several safer alternatives are available:

threading: A technique using twisted thread to remove hair from the follicle.

Waxing: Applying wax to remove hair from the root. (Professional application is recommended to minimize skin damage).

Tweezing: Using tweezers to pluck individual hairs.

Laser Hair Removal: A long-term solution that uses laser energy to destroy hair follicles. (Requires multiple sessions and is best performed by a qualified professional).

Electrolysis: A permanent hair removal method that uses an electric current to destroy hair follicles.

Depilatory Creams (for body only): If using depilatory creams, strictly adhere to the product’s instructions and only use them on areas specified on the packaging – typically not the face.

Patch Testing: A Crucial Step

Before using any* new skincare or hair removal product,a patch test is essential. Here’s how to perform one:

1. Apply a Small Amount: Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of skin, such as the inside of your elbow or behind your ear.
2. Wait 24-48 Hours: Cover the area with a bandage and wait 24-48 hours.
3. Check for Reaction: Observe the area for any signs of irritation, redness, itching, or swelling.
4. If No Reaction: If no reaction occurs, the product is likely safe to use