Dry Nose: Common Causes and a Daily Care Routine

A dry nose is one of the most common complaints in winter, in air-conditioned offices and after flights. It feels tight, sometimes itchy, occasionally sore. Here is what causes it and a simple routine that keeps the nasal lining comfortable.

What causes a dry nose?

• Dry air — central heating, air conditioning and cold winter weather all hold very little moisture.
• Altitude and flights — cabin humidity often sits below 20%.
• Dehydration — the nasal lining needs water like the rest of you.
• Over-use of decongestant sprays — not intended for daily use, and drying with repeated use.

Why it matters

The nasal lining does its filtering work best when it is moist. When it dries out, it is less comfortable and less efficient at moving dust and pollen along. That is the whole reason a daily care routine helps.

A daily care routine for a dry nose

• Humidify the bedroom, especially once the heating is on.
• Drink water through the day; go easy on alcohol and caffeine.
• Breathe through your nose so air is humidified on the way in.
• Saline for moisture — a saline spray adds water to the lining.
• Cleanse daily — NOWONDER™ nasal spray (also known as Enovid) releases nitric oxide as it is sprayed, cleansing and refreshing the passages and clearing the dust that collects in dry rooms. Use 2 sprays in each nostril before or after visiting crowded places. Per the label, NOWONDER™ may be applied 3 to 4 times daily, or up to 6 times daily as needed. Saline and NOWONDER™ do different jobs and sit comfortably together, a few minutes apart.

When to see someone

NOWONDER™ is a cosmetic nasal cleanser, not a treatment. If a dry nose persists, bleeds regularly or is painful, speak to a pharmacist or doctor. The label also advises stopping use if you feel significant burning or irritation.

More on the nose and moisture in How Your Nose Filters the Air You Breathe; the everyday routine is in A Daily Nasal Spray Routine.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my nose feel dry?
Heating, air conditioning, cold weather, altitude and long flights all pull moisture out of the nasal lining.

What helps a dry nose day to day?
Humidify the room, drink water, breathe through your nose, use a saline spray for moisture, and keep a daily nasal cleansing routine.

Is NOWONDER a treatment for dry nose?
No. NOWONDER is a cosmetic nasal cleanser that cleanses and refreshes the nasal passages. If a dry nose persists or bleeds, see a healthcare provider.

Looking for Enovid nasal spray? Shop all pack sizes with free worldwide shipping — now available as NOWONDER™ in the US.