How to soothe a sore nose in winter
Baby it’s cold outside. But winter isn’t all roaring fires, steaming hot chocolate and building snowmen. For your sore nose it can mean cracked skin, streaming snot and so-red-you-can’t-miss-it nostrils.
To ensure winter colds and a painful nose don’t get in the way of your plans, here’s our top tips for looking after your hooter in frosty conditions.
- Wrap up warm! Layers are your friend. Think jumpers, a winter coat, gloves, hat scarf. Keeping yourself warm while out and about will help you fight off any winter bugs doing the rounds.
- Wear a face mask. Winter winds can wreak havoc on the delicate skin around your face and nose. Wearing a mask not only helps protect yourself and those around you from spreading bugs, but it also provides a layer of protection for your face so your nose is less likely to get all red and dry.
- Stay hydrated. Lots of cold or warm water with honey and lemon, or a peppermint tea should do the trick, as it helps to flush out any nasties. Did you know, if your nose is red, it could be a sign of sinus congestion? The menthol in peppermint tea can help open your airways and ease a stuffy nose.
- Blow your nose gently. Being full of snot is nasty and you’ll be blowing your nose lots. But it can make red, sore skin worse. Always keep some Kleenex® Balsam tissues handy, whether it’s in a box next to the sofa or in Pocket Packs for long winter walks. Thanks to their protective balm of aloe vera, vitamin E and calendula, they’re basically big softies that’ll help keep red noses at bay.
How to blow your nose properly
Yep, we were all taught when we were a toddler. But there’s no harm in a quick recap!
- Grab a Kleenex® Balsam tissue and hold it over your nose. Steer clear of coarser materials such as paper towels as these can irritate and set off sensitive skin.
- Press one finger against one of your nostrils to close it off. You shouldn’t be able to breathe out of that nostril.
- Gently blow the open nostril into the tissue and wipe away any excess snot.
- Repeat the process on the other nostril. Blowing one nostril at a time will help clear snot easier and avoid infecting your sinuses.
- Toss away tissue after you’re done to help prevent the spread of germs.
- Finish by washing your hands, or use antibacterial gel if you’re on the go.
