When suffering from a common cold, it rarely takes long to appear. We are talking about reddened, sore skin around the nose and mouth. These unpleasant symptoms do not only occur during a cold, but can also be caused by other factors.
In a healthy state, our nose is well protected. Cilia and a thin, viscous mucous membrane ensure that penetrating dirt particles and pathogens cannot settle in the nose and are quickly removed. During a cold, however, the mucous membrane loses moisture. As a result, the nasal secretion becomes viscous and impairs the activity of the cilia. Consequently, not only does the inside of the nose become sore, but reddened, inflamed areas and crusts often form around the nostrils. Constant nose blowing additionally irritates the sensitive skin, making it dry, flaky, and painful to the touch. Frequently, not only the nostrils are affected, and the unpleasant symptoms extend across the philtrum to the upper lip.
A sore, reddened nose is not only a troublesome side effect of colds with a runny nose. People who suffer from allergies such as hay fever are particularly frequently affected. Dry indoor air from heating and air conditioning also promotes drying of the mucous membranes, as do environmental irritants from exhaust fumes and fine dust or insufficient fluid intake.
With a sore nose, every blow hurts and rubs against the already irritated skin. Since it is not considered good manners in our latitudes to sniff and thus avoid blowing, one should only use high-quality, soft paper tissues that are not perfumed. Especially for people who tend to have allergies or very sensitive skin, fragrances can additionally irritate the delicate nose. Kitchen roll and toilet paper are also not recommended due to their rough surface texture.
It is also helpful not to blow too forcefully to avoid straining the nasal mucosa. Gently blowing each nostril individually reduces the pressure on the mucous membranes. After blowing, gently and thoroughly pat the sore facial area dry so that no secretion remains on the skin.
Common colds and allergy flare-ups cannot always be avoided, even with a healthy lifestyle. However, there are several things you can do to prevent unpleasant symptoms such as a sore nose and chapped lips. Dry heating air irritates the mucous membranes, which is why good ventilation should always be ensured. Humidifiers in air-conditioned and heated rooms can improve the air quality. At the same time, it is important to drink enough fluids daily to provide the skin with sufficient moisture from within.
Those who tend to have a sore nose can preventively apply a medical ointment to the sensitive facial area several times a day. ilon Woundcare is ideally suited for irritated, flaky skin. The combination of valuable natural ingredients has skin caring properties. At the same time, the skin’s barrier function is improved and cell renewal is stimulated. The ointment is free from colorants and preservatives, dermatologically tested for skin compatibility, and is therefore also suitable for use on sensitive facial skin. ilon Woundcare can not only be used preventively, but also helps when sore areas around the mouth and nose have already appeared.
ilon Woundcare consists of carefully coordinated ingredients of natural origin. It contains highly concentrated zinc oxide, known for its healing-promoting and antimicrobial properties. Rich olive oil is antioxidant, promotes cell regeneration, soothes the skin, and makes it supple. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids and skin-protective vitamins A and D. Additionally, wool fat has nourishing and skin-strengthening effects. Lavender oil has proven itself in herbal medicine due to its anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties and gives the ointment its pleasant scent.
Paper tissues are significantly more hygienic than cloth handkerchiefs, and the material is usually softer. If the skin around the nose is already irritated and sore, any friction when blowing your nose can be painful. Therefore, when purchasing paper tissues, ensure that they are a high-quality product made from soft cellulose.
One should generally be cautious when experimenting with home remedies—especially if prone to allergies. Some users have had positive experiences with compresses made from a chamomile flower infusion. The compresses can be applied lukewarm or cold; alternatively, the sore skin can be gently dabbed with a cotton pad soaked in chamomile.
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