Cold weather, use of irritating facial care products, and some skin problems (such as eczema or mucus discharge from the nose during a cold) can cause the layer of skin under the nose to dry out. Dry skin is usually not a serious health problem, and can be treated at home with simple treatments. However, if left untreated, dry skin under the nose can lead to more serious complications (such as bleeding or secondary bacterial infection), so you should treat dry skin and try to prevent it from recurring.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Treating Dry Skin Under Nose
Step 1. Wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser
The first step in treating dry skin under the nose is to clean it of dirt and flaking dead skin cells. Dry, flaky skin often causes open sores and can lead to bacterial infections, so keeping this area clean is very important.
- Avoid using harsh soaps which can further aggravate dry skin conditions. Instead, use a cleanser that contains a moisturizer, or a mild soap that contains oils.
- Also, avoid antibacterial detergents or cleansers that contain fragrances and alcohol, as these can make dry skin worse.
Step 2. Gently pat the skin
Do not rub the skin or use a rough towel to dry it, as this can exacerbate irritation. Instead, use a soft towel, and gently pat the skin under the nose dry.
Step 3. Apply ice cubes to the surface of the skin to reduce inflammation
If the skin under your nose is red, swollen, and/or painful (inflamed), apply an ice cube wrapped in a tissue to the area for a few minutes to reduce the pain and inflammation.
- Do not apply ice cubes directly to the surface of the skin, as this can exacerbate the damage. So, you should first wrap it with a tissue or cloth.
- If the skin under your nose is just dry but doesn't show any signs of inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain), you can skip this step and move on to the next step.
Step 4. Moisturize the skin under the nose
Creams and ointments can inhibit the release of water content from the skin while helping to lock in moisture. Apply a moisturizing cream under your nose.
- Use a moisturizer that is thicker or hypoallergenic (such as over-the-counter Eucerin and Cetaphil). Even if they can be used on other parts of the body, most lotions are not thick enough or enough to moisturize the dry layer of skin under the nose.
- Avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances, alcohol, retinoids, or alpha hydroxy acids.
- Do not use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams or lotions unless directed by your doctor. Products like these contain chemicals that may actually make skin irritation worse. Stop using the cream if it makes your skin more sore and itchy.
Step 5. Try using a natural moisturizer
Several natural products can be used to help treat stubborn dry skin. You may need to try some of the following products to find the one that works best for you:
- Sunflower seed oil and flaxseed oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamin E which can help restore dry skin.
- Coconut oil is also very moisturizing when applied directly to the skin's surface.
- Raw honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, and can help retain skin moisture.
Step 6. Apply moisturizer repeatedly throughout the day until dry skin conditions improve
Several factors or conditions can pull moisture away from the skin, such as cold weather or eczema. So, you have to apply moisturizer repeatedly to the layer of skin under your nose to keep it moist throughout the day and night.
- At night, you may want to try an ointment containing petroleum jelly such as Vaseline or Aquaphor. You can also use this product during the day, but since it's sticky, you may find it easier to apply before bed.
- If your skin is really dry, your dermatologist may recommend using an over-the-counter ointment (such as one containing lactic acid and urea). Use the ointment as recommended, and do not exceed the recommended frequency of use every day.
Step 7. Ask your doctor if you need a prescription cream
Generally, dry skin under the nose is temporary and responds well to regular moisturizing treatments. However, if dry skin is caused by a more serious condition such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, in addition to recommending home remedies, your doctor may also recommend using prescription ointments. These ointments are usually topical corticosteroids or topical antibiotics.
Consult a doctor or dermatologist if dry skin does not improve or does not subside after you undergo home treatments
Step 8. Watch for signs of infection
Sometimes, dry skin can trigger an infection. Impetigo (an infection of the outermost layer of the skin) is quite common under or around the nose. See a doctor if you notice any signs of infection such as:
- Skin is getting redder
- Small bumps appear
- Swelling
- Pus
- Boil
- If the irritated area suddenly gets worse, or is painful and swollen, an allergic reaction may occur. Immediately visit a doctor.
Method 2 of 2: Prevent Dry Skin Under Nose
Step 1. Do not bathe or bathe too long
Bathing for too long will remove some of the oil layer on the skin as well as moisture. Limit your bath or bath time to 5-10 minutes each day, and avoid washing your face and skin under your nose more than twice a day.
Step 2. Use warm water, not hot water
Hot water can remove natural oils from the skin's surface. Use lukewarm water to shower or wash your face.
Step 3. Use a facial cleanser and body wash that contains moisturizer
Avoid using harsh soaps that can aggravate dry skin conditions. You should choose a soap-free facial cleanser that moisturizes the skin, such as Cetaphil and Aquanil, as well as a moisturizing body wash (such as Dove and Olay).
You can also add oil to the soaking water if you prefer to take a bath
Step 4. Immediately moisturize the skin after bathing or washing your face
That way, the gaps between skin cells will be closed and the skin's natural moisture is not released. Apply moisturizer a few minutes after washing your face or showering while your skin is still damp.
If the skin under the nose is very dry, you can apply an oil (eg baby oil). Oil is able to prevent evaporation of water from the skin layer better than moisturizer. However, if your skin feels "oily" as a result, consider using the oil only before bed
Step 5. Use skin care products that contain moisturizers
Look for products that contain moisturizers if you use makeup on dry skin (such as powder or shaving cream).
- Avoid products that contain alcohol, retinoids, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
- Also, choose products that are fragrance-free and/or intended for sensitive skin.
- Talk to your doctor and ask if you should use a prescription ointment if you can't find a suitable product or are unsure about choosing one.
- Remember to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, or choose a facial product that contains sunscreen when you go out.
Step 6. Be careful when shaving
Shaving can irritate the skin under the nose. Shave after a warm shower or after applying a warm, damp cloth to your face for a few minutes to soften your hair and open up your pores. You can also try the following suggestions to avoid shaving irritation:
- Don't shave when your skin is dry. Shaving while the skin is still dry can be very irritating. Always use shaving cream or gel to lubricate the surface of the skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for a hypoallergenic shaving gel.
- Use a sharp razor. A dull razor makes you have to rub it over and over again, increasing the chance of irritation.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth. On the face is usually down. Shaving in the opposite direction of hair growth can irritate the skin and cause hair growth in the skin.
Step 7. Do not scratch the skin under the nose as this can irritate dry skin and even cause bleeding, especially if the cut is deep enough
If your skin feels itchy, try putting ice on it for a few minutes. This method can reduce swelling and itching of the skin.
If it bleeds, press a clean towel over the skin to stop the flow. You may need to apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of a secondary bacterial infection. Consult a doctor if the bleeding does not stop or the skin "opens" several times a day
Step 8. Use a soft tissue when blowing your nose
Ordinary wipes may be too rough and can irritate the skin even more. So, use facial tissue or tissue that contains moisturizer instead.
Step 9. Use a humidifier to increase the humidity of the air
Cold weather often makes the air drier, as a result your skin will lose moisture even more. So, use a humidifier at night at a humidity level of around 60%. This method should help restore moisture to the outermost layer of the skin.
If you live in a desert climate, you may need to use a humidifier all year round
Tips
- If your skin feels sore when applied with moisturizer, stop using it and replace it with another hypoallergenic ointment or cream.
- Apply the cream under your nose if your skin is cracked and infected.
