NATIONAL LIFESTYLE NEWS - Reindeers are not the only creatures with red noses in winter. People with colds, ‘flu and allergies often experience chafing from constant nose-blowing. Ivohealth’s oral care advisor, Dirna Grobbelaar, shares some practical advice to help you prevent the ‘Rudolph’ look 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.

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 such as Letibalm, the only balm specially formulated for the nose, lips and skin in-between. It forms a protective layer on the 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. 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. Or use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

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.

Reapply moisturiser after bathing, and remember to reapply Letibalm each time you blow your nose.

Eight tips for nose and lips this winter:

1. Keep the skin well-moisturised.
2. Use very soft tissues or toilet paper with aloe vera or calendula.
3. Gently pat or blot the nose rather than wipe.
4. Apply nose and lip repair balm to protect, moisturize and help heal the skin.
5. Wash with lukewarm water, avoiding harsh soaps or exfoliators.
6. Use a saline spray to keep nasal passages moist.
7. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
8. Drink plenty of water, hot broth or herbal tea.

'We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news'