If you’ve ever dealt with dry, flaky skin around your nose, you know it can be stubborn, uncomfortable, and frustrating. You might notice your skin peeling, looking patchy under makeup, or even feeling tight and irritated when you try to apply moisturiser. It’s one of those small but persistent annoyances that can make you constantly reaching for creams or wipes.
It’s easy to assume that dryness is just a result of dehydration, cold weather, or harsh winds, but if you’re finding that your flakes stick around no matter what you do, it could point to an underlying skin issue. For example, you might be dealing with seborrhoeic dermatitis, a common condition that causes redness, flakiness, and sometimes itchiness. Or perhaps some of your skincare products are irritating the delicate skin around your nose, leaving your skin barrier compromised and more prone to dryness.
Other factors can also play a role. Your diet, stress levels, seasonal changes, and even the air in your home can affect how your skin behaves. And while occasional dryness is normal, persistent flaking can make you wonder if something more serious is going on.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common causes of dryness and flaking around your nose, show you how to recognise which one might be affecting you, and share dermatologist-approved tips to help you get lasting relief. By the end, you’ll know how to care for your skin so it feels smoother, healthier, and more comfortable every day.
Why Is the Skin Around Your Nose So Prone to Dryness?
The skin around your nose is surprisingly delicate, and if you’ve noticed flakes or irritation there, you’re not alone. You might wonder why this area seems to get dry so easily well, there are a few reasons.
First, your nose is constantly exposed to the elements. Cold air, sudden temperature changes, and dry indoor environments can all strip moisture from this sensitive skin. Then there’s the everyday friction you might not even think about: rubbing your nose with tissues during a cold or allergies, the pressure of glasses sitting on the bridge of your nose or even wearing face masks for long periods.
On top of that, the skin around your nostrils is thinner than other parts of your face and packed with oil glands. That means it’s a bit more sensitive to anything that disrupts the balance of your skin. Too much cleansing, not enough hydration, or even excess oil can quickly turn into redness, irritation, or the flaky patches you’re trying to avoid.
In short, your nose takes a lot of wear and tear and it’s no wonder it’s one of the first places to show signs of dryness.
1. Seborrhoeic Dermatitis – The Most Common Cause
What It Is
Seborrhoeic dermatitis (often called seborrheic eczema) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects areas with more oil glands such as the nose, eyebrows, and scalp.
It’s caused by an overreaction to a harmless yeast (Malassezia) that lives on the skin, leading to redness, scaling, and itching.
Symptoms
- Flaky, greasy, or yellowish scales
- Red patches along the sides of the nose or eyebrows
- Occasional itching or burning
- Worsening in cold weather or stress
How a Dermatologist Treats It
A dermatologist may recommend:
- Antifungal creams or shampoos (ketoconazole or ciclopirox) to control yeast growth
- Low-strength steroid creams for short-term redness and itching
- Barrier-repair moisturisers containing ceramides or niacinamide
- Regular gentle cleansing with fragrance-free products
Seborrhoeic dermatitis tends to flare periodically but can be managed long-term with consistent care.
2. Over-Cleansing or Harsh Products
The Problem
Ironically, in trying to keep your skin clean, you might be stripping away the very oils that protect it. Many foaming cleansers and acne treatments contain surfactants, alcohol, or exfoliating acids that disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness and peeling.
Warning Signs
- Tightness after washing
- Peeling or redness around the nostrils
- Stinging when applying products
- Flakiness that worsens with frequent cleansing
What to Do
- Switch to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (look for hydrating formulas with glycerin or hyaluronic acid).
- Avoid using salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide directly on the nasal folds unless prescribed.
- Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
- Replenish moisture with a barrier-repair cream.
3. Seasonal or Environmental Dryness
What Happens
Cold weather, indoor heating, and dry air all lower humidity drawing moisture out of your skin. The nose, being more exposed, loses hydration quickly.
How It Looks
- Flaking around nostrils and mouth
- Itchiness or mild redness
- No oiliness or crusting (unlike dermatitis)
Dermatologist Tips
- Use a humidifier indoors to maintain moisture levels.
- Apply a rich, non-comedogenic moisturiser after cleansing.
- Avoid hot showers and wash your face with lukewarm water.
- Pat, don’t rub, your face dry.
Simple steps like switching to a cream-based cleanser can make a dramatic difference during winter.
4. Allergic or Irritant Contact Dermatitis
What It Is
Contact dermatitis happens when your skin reacts to something it comes into contact with often ingredients in skincare, makeup, or even metal glasses frames.
Symptoms
- Redness and flaking along the creases of the nose
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Worsening after applying a specific product
- Sometimes mild swelling or small blisters
Common Triggers
- Fragrance or essential oils in skincare
- Nickel from eyeglass frames
- Harsh cleansers or toners
- Face masks or adhesives
How to Treat It
- Stop using potential irritants immediately.
- Apply a soothing moisturiser (like one with colloidal oatmeal or panthenol).
- A dermatologist may prescribe a mild topical steroid for a few days to reduce inflammation.
Patch testing can identify the culprit so you can avoid future flare-ups.
5. Rosacea
What It Is
Rosacea is a chronic condition that causes facial redness, visible capillaries, and sensitivity, especially around the central face (nose and cheeks).
Symptoms
- Persistent redness around the nose
- Flushing after hot drinks or temperature changes
- Dryness or burning
- Fine, visible blood vessels
Dermatologist Treatments
- Topical anti-inflammatories like metronidazole or azelaic acid
- Laser treatments to reduce visible redness
- Barrier-support skincare to calm irritation
If you suspect rosacea, avoid alcohol, spicy food, and hot beverages they’re common triggers.
6. Nasal Irritation from Cold or Allergies
Frequent nose blowing, wiping, or sneezing can physically damage the delicate skin around your nostrils. Even soft tissues can cause micro-abrasions and flaking.
Prevention and Care
- Use fragrance-free barrier ointments like petroleum jelly around the nostrils.
- Gently pat (not rub) when wiping your nose.
- Once the irritation settles, apply a light moisturiser to repair the barrier.
If dryness persists after cold symptoms resolve, consult a dermatologist, as ongoing irritation may lead to dermatitis.
7. Underlying Skin Conditions
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can occasionally appear around the nose, producing thick, scaly, silver patches. It’s usually accompanied by similar plaques on the scalp, elbows, or knees.
Perioral Dermatitis
A rash that often develops around the mouth and nose, causing tiny bumps and peeling. It’s commonly triggered by topical steroid use or overuse of cosmetics.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
People with eczema-prone skin may experience intermittent flaking around the nasal folds due to dryness and inflammation.
If these patterns sound familiar, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
How a Dermatologist Figures Out What’s Causing Your Dry Nose
If you decide to see a dermatologist, you’ll usually start with a thorough check-up to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your dryness and flaking. Here’s what that typically looks like:
- Visual inspection: Your dermatologist will examine the affected areas closely, looking at the texture, redness, and the edges of any flaky patches. This helps them spot patterns that point to specific conditions.
- Lifestyle and skincare review: You’ll talk about your daily habits, the products you use, and even things like how often you blow your nose or wear face masks. Little details like these can make a big difference in understanding what might be irritating your skin.
- Patch testing (if needed): If your dermatologist suspects an allergic reaction, they may do patch tests to check if certain products or ingredients are triggering contact dermatitis.
- Scalp and facial assessment: Conditions like seborrhoeic dermatitis don’t just appear on your nose your scalp, eyebrows, and other areas might show signs too. Looking at these spots helps your dermatologist see the full picture.
Once they’ve determined the cause, you’ll get a personalised plan designed specifically for your skin. This usually combines medical treatments like medicated creams or ointments with practical skincare advice to help you protect and restore your skin barrier. Following this plan can make a huge difference in reducing flakes and keeping your skin comfortable.
Dermatologist-Approved Treatments
1. Gentle Cleansing Routine
- Use a non-foaming cleanser twice daily.
- Avoid alcohol, fragrance, and sulphates.
- Consider micellar water or cream cleansers for sensitive skin.
2. Barrier Repair Moisturisers
Look for creams with:
- Ceramides – restore lipid balance
- Niacinamide – reduces redness and strengthens skin
- Hyaluronic acid – hydrates deeply
- Shea butter or squalane – lock in moisture
3. Targeted Medical Creams
If prescribed, apply:
- Antifungal creams for seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Mild steroid or calcineurin inhibitors for eczema or contact dermatitis
- Azelaic acid for redness and sensitivity
4. Professional Treatments
For chronic or stubborn cases, your dermatologist may recommend:
- LED light therapy to reduce inflammation
- Microdermabrasion or gentle peels (once the barrier is healed)
- Low-dose oral antifungals for persistent seborrhoeic dermatitis
At-Home Care Tips for Smoother Skin
1. Moisturise Twice Daily
Even oily or combination skin needs hydration. Focus on the nasal creases, applying a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula.
2. Avoid Over-Exfoliation
Physical scrubs can worsen flaking. Instead, use mild chemical exfoliants (like lactic acid) once a week if tolerated.
3. Simplify Your Routine
Stick to three essentials: a cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen. Overloading on actives like retinol or acids can worsen dryness.
4. Protect from Cold and Wind
Apply a thin layer of balm before stepping outdoors during winter to prevent windburn.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drink enough water and include omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, chia, or flaxseeds) in your diet to support healthy skin from within.
When You Should See a Dermatologist
If you’ve been trying gentle skincare for a couple of weeks and your flaky nose skin isn’t improving, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with a dermatologist. You don’t have to struggle with discomfort or irritation on your own a specialist can pinpoint the exact cause and help you find the right treatment.
There are certain signs that mean you shouldn’t wait:
- Yellow crusting or oozing: This could indicate an infection, which needs professional care.
- Persistent burning or stinging: If your skin constantly feels sore or irritated, it’s a signal that something more serious might be going on.
- Worsening after using creams: Sometimes over-the-counter products can make the issue worse, especially if your skin barrier is already compromised.
- Spreading redness, scaling, or itchiness: If the flakiness is extending beyond your nose to other areas of your face, it’s a sign you need expert advice.
Seeing a dermatologist can help you understand whether your symptoms are caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or another skin condition. From there, they can guide you toward treatments that actually work, so you can get relief faster and prevent further irritation. By catching issues early, you’ll also reduce the risk of your dry, flaky patches becoming a long-term problem.
Common Myths About Dry Skin Around the Nose
Myth 1: Flaky skin means you need to exfoliate more.
Over-exfoliation is one of the biggest causes of barrier damage.
Myth 2: Only dry skin types get flakiness.
Even oily or combination skin can experience dryness from harsh cleansers or weather.
Myth 3: You should let flaky skin “breathe.”
Dehydrated skin needs moisture, not exposure. Apply nourishing creams regularly.
Myth 4: Petroleum jelly clogs pores.
Pure petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic and excellent for sealing moisture in dry areas.
Prevention: Keeping the Nose Area Smooth and Balanced
- Cleanse gently, not aggressively.
- Moisturise twice daily, even if your skin feels oily.
- Avoid fragrance-heavy skincare or makeup.
- Exfoliate sparingly.
- Use SPF 30+ daily, even in winter UV damage worsens redness.
With a consistent skincare routine and professional guidance, dry, flaky patches can be fully controlled.
FAQs About Dry, Flaky Skin Around Your Nose:
1. Why is the skin around my nose always dry, even when the rest of my face feels normal?
The skin around your nose is thinner and more delicate than other parts of your face, which makes it more sensitive to environmental changes and everyday friction. Constant exposure to cold air, indoor heating, or even frequent wiping with tissues can strip moisture away, leaving this area drier than the rest of your skin. In addition, over-cleansing or using harsh products can disrupt the skin barrier, making it even harder for your nose to retain hydration.
2. Could my skincare products be causing the dryness?
Yes, certain cleansers, toners, or acne treatments can irritate the sensitive skin around your nose. Ingredients like alcohol, strong acids, or fragrances can strip natural oils and trigger flaking. Even products that are generally safe for your cheeks or forehead might be too harsh for the nasal folds. If you notice increased redness or stinging after applying a product, it may be worth stopping its use and switching to a gentler formula.
3. How can I tell if it’s seborrhoeic dermatitis or just dry skin?
Seborrhoeic dermatitis usually presents as red, greasy, or yellowish flakes that sometimes itch or burn. Unlike simple dryness, the flakiness tends to persist and often appears on other oily areas of your face, such as your eyebrows or scalp. Dry skin from environmental factors usually looks more uniform, lacks the greasy or yellow scales, and improves with moisturisers and barrier repair creams. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
4. Can allergies make the skin around my nose flaky?
Absolutely. Contact with allergens or irritants, such as fragrance, metal in glasses frames, or certain cosmetics, can trigger contact dermatitis, causing redness, peeling, and discomfort. Even face masks or adhesive tapes can sometimes irritate this area. Identifying and avoiding the trigger is key, and patch testing through a dermatologist can help pinpoint the exact cause.
5. Will over-exfoliating help remove flakes faster?
Over-exfoliating actually worsens dryness and can damage your skin barrier. Physical scrubs or frequent use of strong acids can lead to more irritation, redness, and peeling. Instead, it’s better to use gentle chemical exfoliants sparingly, like a mild lactic acid once a week, and focus on moisturising to restore your skin’s natural protective layer.
6. How long does it take for flaky skin around the nose to heal?
The healing time varies depending on the underlying cause. If it’s simple environmental dryness, you might notice improvement within a few days to a week after switching to gentle cleansing and moisturising. Conditions like seborrhoeic dermatitis, rosacea, or eczema can take longer to manage and require consistent treatment. Following a dermatologist’s plan usually brings visible relief within a couple of weeks, though long-term maintenance may be necessary to prevent flare-ups.
7. Can rosacea cause dry, flaky patches around my nose?
Yes, rosacea often affects the central face, including the nose, and can cause redness, visible blood vessels, and sensitivity. The affected skin may feel dry, tight, or irritated, and triggers such as hot beverages, spicy foods, and alcohol can worsen symptoms. Managing rosacea usually involves both prescription treatments and lifestyle adjustments to reduce flare-ups.
8. Is it safe to use petroleum jelly on flaky skin around the nose?
Yes, pure petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic and works as an excellent barrier to lock in moisture. It helps protect the skin from friction, wind, and dryness while allowing it to heal. Using it consistently on the nasal folds, especially during cold or dry weather, can prevent further flaking and discomfort.
9. What home care habits help prevent dryness around my nose?
Simple daily routines make a big difference. Cleansing gently without overdoing it, moisturising twice daily, avoiding products with alcohol or strong fragrances, and using SPF regularly can all help maintain a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, keeping your indoor environment humidified and staying hydrated supports your skin from the inside out.
10. When should I definitely see a dermatologist?
You should see a dermatologist if your flakiness persists beyond a couple of weeks despite gentle care, or if you notice signs like yellow crusting, persistent burning, spreading redness, or worsening after using creams. A dermatologist can diagnose whether your symptoms are caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or another condition and provide a targeted treatment plan to bring relief and prevent future flare-ups.
Final Thoughts: Caring for Dry, Flaky Skin Around Your Nose
Dealing with dry, flaky skin around your nose can be frustrating, but with the right care, it’s usually manageable. Gentle cleansing, barrier-repair moisturisers, and targeted treatments can really help your skin feel smooth and comfortable again.
If your dryness persists or you’re unsure what’s causing it, you can contact our dermatologist at the London Dermatology Centre. They’ll help identify the cause whether it’s seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, rosacea, or another condition and guide you toward a treatment plan that works for your skin.
References:
1. Tucker, D., 2024. Seborrheic Dermatitis. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551707/
2. Ananthapadmanabhan, K.P., 2004. The impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the use of moisturizers. Dermatologic Therapy, 17(1), pp. 15-23. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/
3. Farshchian, M., 2023. Rosacea. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557574/
4. Byrne, C., 2022. Contact dermatitis. British Journal of Nursing, 31(11), pp. 602-607. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17557380221134313
5. Engebretsen, K.A., 2016. The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on the skin barrier function. Journal of Dermatological Science, 83(3), pp. 165-170. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26449379/