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Family Life Article on Families on-the-go Magazine
January / February 2007

Prevent Sore Noses and Lips During a Cold

By: Gail Erickson

AAACCHHHOOOO!

Oh that constant runny nose. Once a cold hits it's usually only a matter of time before you get that sore, flaky, red nose and chapped lips. Here are some quick tips to help minimize your discomfort.

1. Buy the good tissues! Whichever brand you prefer, opt for the best. They really aren't that much more expensive and it does make a difference.

2. Before your nose and lips start to feel sore, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the area. This creates an extra barrier for the skin to protect against wetness and friction. Apply morning and night.

3. Find the aloe you used in the summertime after sun exposure. It will gently soothe and hydrate the lip and nose area. If your aloe also contains Lidocaine apply a spot test, as it could sting. If stinging occurs do not use.

4. Use saline nose drops to moisten the tender skin inside the nose.

Gail Erickson is a licensed Clinical Esthetician with an English degree from USF, Tampa. She works at Practically Frivolous, a full-service salon in St. Petersburg. Please direct any skin care questions to gail_erickson@yahoo.com