Irritated nose: how to soothe it after a cold?

The nose is often subject to irritations in winter, but this phenomenon is intensified in the case of a cold. Indeed, during a cold, between nasal discharge, inflammation of the mucous membranes, and repeated rubbing of tissues, the skin of the nostrils is put to a severe test. In response to the viral infection, the immune system triggers the release of prostaglandins and histamine, pro-inflammatory mediators that promote the production of mucus. While this mechanism helps to eliminate pathogens, it also leads to nasal congestion and hypersensitivity of the surrounding tissues. Frequent use of tissues exacerbates this irritation.

Furthermore, already sensitised by frequent nose blowing, the nose is further weakened by external aggressions, such as cold and winter wind. These elements contribute to skin dryness and the deterioration of the skin barrier, which in turn causes redness, dry patches and, more generally, nasal irritation.

Simple actions can combat the weakening of the skin on the nose caused by a cold. The first step is to reduce mechanical damage by using soft, unscented tissues. Those containing soothing agents, such as aloe vera or calendula, may potentially help to soothe the nose, although this has not been scientifically proven at this time. For better effectiveness, it is recommended to apply these active ingredients directly to the skin of the nose. Other natural ingredients, like oat extract or shea butter, known for caring for dry to very dry skin, can also be used. Another good habit to adopt: gently dab the nose instead of rubbing to avoid exacerbating redness and nasal irritation.

Finally, to soothe the skin on the nose and restore its skin barrier, it is recommended to apply a lipid-replenishing and repairing treatment one to two times a day. Balms containing ceramides, shea butter or vegetable oils rich in fatty acids are particularly suitable and help to compensate for the lipid deficit experienced by the irritated nose skin after a cold. To soothe redness and accelerate healing, you can also rely on active ingredients such as panthenol, copper-zinc or Centella asiatica. At Typology, we have formulated a repairing cica-balm for weakened and damaged skin. Containing 99% natural origin ingredients, this dressing effect balm is concentrated in antibacterial, moisturising and repairing actives, in order to relieve irritations and promote the reconstruction of the skin barrier.

• KETTUNEN P. & al. The skin in the cold. International Journal of Circumpolar Health (2002).

• THYSSEN J. P. & al. The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2016).