Caring for your nose and lips this winter

“When you frequently blow your nose, the delicate skin around the nose and lips becomes dry and irritated. Small, almost invisible, cracks are formed and these are exacerbated with every wipe. Over time the skin can become inflamed and chapped,” said Dirna Grobbelaar, an oral care advisor.

She said to start by giving the skin some extra protection immediately, using a barrier cream, moisturiser, petroleum jelly, or a product specifically created to repair the delicate skin.

When you blow, use extra soft tissues or toilet paper. Look for ones infused with Aloe Vera. Instead of wiping, pat or softly dab dry.

You can help hydrate the skin from the inside. Eat a nourishing diet including fresh fruit, vegetables and healthy fats; drink plenty of water, rooibos or herbal teas.

“Extra fluids can help thin mucus and loose mucous can mean less nose blowing. A simple nasal saline solution can work wonders to clear stuffiness. If your nose is blocked, gently spray twice a day.”

Warm soup and hot drinks are soothing and help relieve congestion. As steam rises it moistens the nasal passage and helps open up a stuffy nose. A steam bath works in the same way, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

She added that damaged and irritated skin is more prone to infections.

“Wash your hands regularly and keep the skin clean. When it comes to baths and showers avoid harsh soaps, facial scrubs and very hot water, which can dry out the skin and reapply moisturiser after bathing.

Tips for winter

• Keep the skin well-moisturised.
• Use very soft tissues or toilet paper with Aloe Vera or calendula.
• Gently pat or blot the nose rather than wipe.
• Wash with lukewarm water, avoiding harsh soaps or exfoliators.
• Use a saline spray to keep nasal passages moist.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
• Drink plenty of water, hot broth or herbal tea.