How to Keep My Nose Moisturized

Blowing your nose frequently causes dry skin.

Dry skin is often itchy, red and painful to the touch, especially when it affects a tender area, such as your nose. Common causes of dry skin on the nose are a cold dry climate or sunburn. According to Daniel Yarosh, author of "The New Science of Perfect Skin," with daily care and treatment, you can keep your nose moisturized and healthy. Only a few simple supplies are necessary to moisturize the skin on the inside and outside of your nose.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton swabs
• Saline nose spray
• Facial moisturizer
• Sunscreen

Instructions

1. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your body hydrated. According to Dale Alexander, author of "Dry Skin and Common Sense," when you keep your body hydrated, you will keep your skin hydrated. This will moisturize not only the mucus membrane within your nose but also the skin on the outside of your nose.

2. Dip a cotton swab in warm water and use it to clean out any mucus or dirt on the inside of your nostrils. Use a clean cotton swab for each nostril. Do not forcibly scrub the interior of your nose or stick the cotton swab more than half an inch inside the nostril.

3. Use saline nose spray twice daily. Saline nose spray will not only clean the interior of your nose but will also keep the skin hydrated. Follow the directions for use on your nose spray because instructions will vary for different brands.

4. Use a facial moisturizer once in the morning and once before bed. Rub the moisturizer over your entire nose instead of simply focusing on dry areas. Never apply facial moisturizer to the interior of your nostrils.

5. Wear sunscreen on your nose if you are going outside. Apply a small amount to the nose and massage in gently. The sun's rays not only cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer but also can also leech moisture out of already dry skin. Use a sunscreen with skin moisturizers for best results.

Tips & Warnings

• If you experience frequent nose bleeding or chronic dry skin, consult with your health care professional for diagnosis.

• Use a facial sunscreen on your entire face to protect this delicate skin.

References

• "The New Science of Perfect Skin: Understanding Skin Care Myths and Miracles For Radiant Skin at Any Age"; Daniel Yarosh; 2008
• "Dry Skin and Common Sense, With Illustrations and Menus"; Dale Alexander; 1978
• "Dry Skin and Moisturizers: Chemistry and Function, Second Edition (Dermatology: Clinical & Basic Science)"; Marie Loden and Howard I. Maibach; 2005