Nose scab can be an unpleasant experience for many people. They can be itchy and irritating and may cause difficulty breathing. It is especially true if the scab is not removed quickly or if it pops. It can be painful and difficult to breathe through the nose.
In this article, we will discuss the causes of nose scabs and provide tips on how to treat, prevent, and ultimately get rid of them. Whether you are dealing with the occasional scab or have a chronic scabbing condition, you will find the information you need here.
From over-the-counter remedies to natural treatments, we will point you in the right direction so you can get back to living life without the irritating and unsightly scabs.
Overview of Nose Scabs
Nose Scab is an overgrowth of skin that occurs when you have an injury to the skin, like a scrape or a scratch. The scab forms to protect the injured area so that it can heal properly. While it might be unsightly, a scab is not a serious health concern and will go away on its own, usually in about 10-21 days.
But it is important to note that a nose scab is not the same as a skin scab. A nose scab, or crust, is a loose patch of skin that collects around a pimple in the nose. It is usually yellowish-white in colour and can be crusty and flaky. Several factors, including folliculitis and acne, can bring on a nose scab.
Causes of Nose Scabs
There are many different reasons for nose scabs. Dry skin, allergic reactions, infections, or environmental irritation can cause them. The most common cause of nose scabs is dry skin, which air pollution, weather changes, and other factors can cause.
Irritation from the environment & allergic reactions can also cause a person to break out with small bumps on their nose that are filled with fluid and pus. Infections can also lead to scabs on the nose as the infection spreads through the skin.
Symptoms of Nose Scabs
- A yellowish or white, flaky crust in your nose.
- A pimple or pustule that is painful, itchy, and inflamed.
- A red bump on your nose that does not go away after a few days.
- A burning sensation in your nose.
- A crusty, scab-like formation around your nose.
- A yellowish or white discharge comes from your nose.
Over-The-Counter Remedies for Nose Scabs
Hydrogen peroxide
This whitening agent is also a great antiseptic and antifungal agent. Pour a little hydrogen peroxide into a bowl and add equal parts of water to make a solution. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and gently clean the infected area. Do this a few times daily to eliminate the scabs and the infection.
Neosporin
It is a very effective prescription ointment that contains antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a little ointment on the affected area a few times a day until the scabs are gone.
Tea tree oil
This natural antiseptic and antifungal agent are known for their healing properties. Mix about two teaspoons of tea tree oil with equal water to make a solution. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and apply it to the infected area. Do this at least once a day until the scabs are gone.
Natural Treatments for Nose Scabs
Apple cider vinegar
ACV is a great antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial agent. Mix 3 tablespoons of ACV with 1 cup of water. Put this solution in a spray bottle and spray on the infected area a few times a day. You can also soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the infected area. Do this until the scabs are gone.
Honey
This delicious sweetener is an excellent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-viral agent. Put 2 tablespoons of honey in a bowl and add a few drops of lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to create a smooth paste. Apply this mixture to the infected area with a clean finger and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Do this once a day until the scabs are gone.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that helps heal wounds faster. Mix 2 tablespoons of turmeric with 1 cup of water. Put this mixture in a spray bottle and spray it on the infected area a few times a day. Do this until the scabs are gone.
Home Remedies for Nose Scabs
Apple
The natural acids in apples help eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. Cut an apple into small cubes and put them in a bowl. Add a few drops of lemon juice and mix well to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the infected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. You can also make a natural facial scrub by mixing apples with brown sugar.
Banana
The polyphenol in bananas helps reduce the swelling and redness caused by pimples. Mash a banana and apply the mixture to the infected area. Leave the mixture for 15-20 minutes and then rinse with water.
Cinnamon
The anti-inflammatory properties in cinnamon are known to get rid of the infection causing the scabs. Put a few cinnamon sticks in a clean cotton bag and apply the bag to the affected area. You can also mix a little cinnamon with water to make a solution. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray it on the scabs.
Tips To Prevent Nose Scabs
- Wash your face every day to prevent infections from setting in.
- Use a face wash that has salicylic acid to prevent acne breakouts.
- Wear protective clothing and use an SPF when you are out in the sun.
- Eat a healthy diet to boost your immune system.
- Use moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Avoid picking and popping pimples, which can lead to infections and more breakouts.
- Avoid touching your face as much as possible to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria to the area.
Foods to Eat To Get Rid Of Nose Scabs
Collagen
This anti-ageing protein is rich in amino acids and minerals that promote healing. Drink a cup of collagen tea or add ground collagen to your food to eliminate the scabs. You can also get your daily dose of collagen by eating foods like fish, chicken, eggs, beans, and yoghurt.
Vitamin C
This antioxidant is known to heal wounds and prevent infections. Eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to get rid of the scabs. Some of the best foods containing vitamin C are oranges, kiwis, papayas, and strawberries.
Vitamin E
This anti-ageing vitamin is known to prevent bacterial infections and speed up healing. You can get your daily vitamin E dose by eating almonds, spinach, broccoli, and avocado.
How to Treat Nose Scabs
If you regularly use one of the above remedies, you should see improvement within a few days. If you do not see any improvement, try switching up the remedy. If you are unsure how to treat your scabs best, you can consult a dermatologist who can give you a treatment plan. Treatment for nose scabs can include:
Antibiotics
If your scabs result from an infection (particularly staph or MRSA), antibiotics help treat them.
Hydrocortisone Cream
If your scabs are caused by eczema or psoriasis, a doctor may prescribe hydrocortisone cream to help clear them up.
Retinoid Cream
If your scabs appear linked to cystic acne, a doctor may recommend using a retinoid cream to clear them up.
Face Scrub And Loofah
Exfoliating your skin will help remove dead skin cells and other debris clogging the pores and causing scabs.
Antioxidant-Rich Skincare Products
Look for skincare products rich in antioxidants and other healing agents like vitamin C.
When to See A Doctor For Nose Scabs
If your scabs have been around for a while and are not clearing up with self-care, you should consider consulting a dermatologist. They will be able to help you treat your scabs and get on a path to recovery. In addition, if your scabs are causing you a lot of pain, are very large, are oozing, or appear to be getting worse, you should also see a doctor. Scabs can sometimes become infected, particularly if you are not keeping them clean and free of debris. In this case, antibiotics may be prescribed.