Let’s Talk About Nasal Dryness

The skin is the main protective barrier of our body against external agents, a function that is fulfilled both by the skin of the external area and by the mucous membranes that cover the entrance holes of our body, as is the case, for example, with the nose.

In order for the skin to perform this function correctly, it must be healthy and sufficiently hydrated. A dry skin, lacking water or lipids necessary to maintain its structure, is a more fragile skin and will have more difficulty defending itself. This is why it is so important to maintain an adequate level of hydration and avoid dryness. Today, we are going to talk about nasal dryness and how to avoid it. Keep reading to learn more.

Causes of Nasal Dryness

• The constant use of tissues in case of colds, flu or allergic processes, causes the nasal area to become dry or even irritated. This happens both with the use of cloth tissues and with the comfortable and hygienic paper tissues (which cause even more dryness).
• In places where the climate is drier, it is more common to notice that the skin and nasal mucosa dry out more easily.
• The passage from high temperature areas to cold areas, as happens in winter when we go out, or conversely as in summer when we go from the cool of the air conditioning to the heat of the street, produces dehydration of the skin.
• Both heating and air conditioning dry out the environment at home, at work, etc. The nasal mucosa tends to lose its moisture and become dry.
• Environmental pollution, dust, smoke, chlorine from swimming pools, etc. are irritating factors that also produce dehydration.

Tips to Avoid Nasal Dryness

• Perform a good nasal cleaning: Both the external skin, with a cleansing cosmetic, and the internal area, with the use of a saline or sea water spray.
• Moisturize the skin of the nose: In general, you can moisturize the external area with the same product you use for the rest of your face, although on certain occasions, when you notice that the skin is starting to irritate, or as a preventive measure in dry environments, it can be convenient to use a specific moisturizing balm for this area. This will help you avoid dryness and soothe or prevent irritation.
• For the internal area of the nose, you can use the cleansing spray itself, which refreshes and moisturizes the mucosa. In other cases, the use of an intrasal hydrating gel is necessary.
• Getting enough water, at least one and a half liters a day, is essential to keep your body and skin well hydrated.
• Use a humidifier to keep your home moist, especially at night, to prevent your nose from drying out.

Finally, you should avoid the common causes of dryness we just discussed:

• Sudden changes in temperature
• Smoke
• Environments full of smoke, gas or pollution
• Excessive use of heating and air conditioning

How Do You Prevent Sores From Forming

When the skin is already dry, it is much more fragile and the slightest friction can lead to the appearance of a small wound, so it is important to take special precautions to avoid it:

Do not scratch or touch your nose with your fingers. Contact of the nail with the dry skin of the area will easily cause a sore.

Reduces irritation and friction. Especially that produced by the continuous use of tissues, which, combined with the dryness they produce, is highly likely to irritate a wound.

Apply specific protective and regenerating products for the nasal area. Vaseline can prevent dehydration, but it is much more appropriate to use a cream or balm for the nose and lips that can moisturize the area, protect it, soothe it and even promote healing in case there is already a small wound.

Follow our advice to care for and protect your nose and forget about dryness and annoying sores.

Do you have any other tips on how to deal with nasal dryness? Share them in the comments below.