If you've ever griped: "Why is my nose so itchy?," you know the annoyance of having to continuously scratch due to nasal itching. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what's causing it. We asked doctors about the most common reasons for an itchy nose and home remedies that can help quell irritation.
Also known as seasonal allergies or hay fever, allergic rhinitis is the most common cause of an itchy nose, says Don Beasley, MD, Otolaryngologist and owner of Boise ENT. If you've ever noticed how both the inside and the outside of your nose get itchy after encountering pollen from trees, grass and weeds, dust or furry pets, that's your body reacting to the allergen by releasing histamines. These cause your nose to become inflamed and itch, he explains. You may also experience nasal itchiness from allergies to dust mites or mold.
And an allergic reaction doesn't stop at things like pollen or pet dander. You may also get an itchy nose when you eat food you're allergic to. This happens when your body reacts to a protein (or proteins) in certain foods. Common offenders include apples and celery, which can trigger a reaction known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS). It affects up to 75 percent of adults who are also allergic to birch tree pollen.
Dry air
Dry air is another prevalent trigger. This can be due to indoor heating, cold outside air or spending time in an area with low humidity. A lack of moisture in the air dehydrates the nasal lining, leaving it prone to cracking, itching and even minor bleeding, explains Randall Turner, DO, Dual Board-Certified Physician and Medical Director at Able To Change Recovery.
Skin conditions
You probably associate eczema and psoriasis with arms or legs, but they can affect your nose too, says Dr. Beasley. Eczema might leave the skin around your nose dry and flaky, thanks to a damaged skin barrier. And psoriasis could cause inflamed, itchy areas on the skin of your nose, he explains.
Home remedies for an itchy nose
In most cases, you can care for nasal itch at home using these simple, natural fixes.
Try a saline spray
For any pollutants or allergens irritating the inside of your nose, a saline nasal spray or rinse is one of the most effective methods for relief, says Dr. Turner. It works by hydrating dry nasal passages and flushing out allergens and irritants, he explains.
"Use an over-the-counter isotonic saline spray 1-2 times per nostril, up to 3-4 times daily," Dr. Turner recommends. "Consider a neti pot or squeeze bottle with a saline solution for a deeper clean, but always use distilled or previously boiled [then cooled] water to prevent infections."
Dr. Beasley also suggests opting for a solution without preservatives to avoid more irritation.
Switch on a humidifier
"Adding moisture to your indoor air can work wonders for an itchy nose," says Dr. Turner. "It prevents the nasal lining from drying out and helps maintain optimal hydration."
Just place a humidifier in your bedroom or main living area, aiming for a humidity level between 40 and 60 percent, he says. It's also important to clean the device weekly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Use a soothing moisturizer
Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a saline-based nasal gel to the inside of your nostrils helps lock in moisture and soothe dryness, says Dr. Turner. A ceramide cream is also a quality option, adds Dr. Beasley, as it helps restore your skin's natural barrier to protect against dryness. You can use a clean cotton swab to apply a small amount once or twice a day.
Apply a cool compress
"A cool compress can work very well for soothing skin irritation externally," says Dr. Turner. "Just place a clean cloth over the itchy area for about 10-15 minutes whenever discomfort kicks in." While this won't restore moisture, it will calm the itch in just minutes.
Manage allergies
Treating underlying allergies is an important step in preventing symptoms like nasal itch. Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can help block histamines, ease nasal congestion and reduce itching, says Dr. Turner.
"Non-drowsy antihistamines like loratadine [Claritin] or cetirizine [Zyrtec] can be taken daily during allergy seasons," he notes. "For more localized relief, consider a nasal antihistamine spray, such as azelastine, as directed by your doctor."
Calm skin flares
The best way to care for a condition like eczema or dermatitis that's triggering an itchy nose is to apply a fragrance-free moisturizer twice daily, preferably one formulated for sensitive skin, offers Dr. Turner. For flare-ups from eczema, a thin layer of 1 percent hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation. Just be sure to limit its use to no more than a week, he says. Overuse can thin the skin.
Stay hydrated and eat healthy fats
Drinking enough water (aim for at least 64 oz. a day) keeps your nasal passages moist. And eating plenty of omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts or flaxseeds can support your skin and mucosal health, explains Dr. Turner.
When to see a doctor for an itchy nose
Persistent or worsening nasal itch is a sign to see a medical provider, says Dr. Beasley. A doctor can help figure out if you're dealing with a root cause like chronic rhinitis or sinusitis and come up with a proper treatment plan.