How to Exfoliate Your Nose

The skin on the nose is thick and it contains more oil glands than any other area of the face does. As a result, caring for the nose is different than caring for the cheeks, forehead or chin. The nose is also more exposed. Your nose may be prone to clogged pores, pimples and blackheads -- or it may be red and scaly due to sun and wind; either way, it will benefit from regular exfoliation that can remove dead, dry skin cells. Medicated cleansing pads are an effective and sanitary way to exfoliate the nose. You can also make simple scrubs from ingredients found in most kitchens 1.

Cleansing Pads

Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a soft towel.

How to Care for Oily Skin That Is Sensitive

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Swipe your nose gently with a cleansing pad that contains alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acid. Repeat with a second pad if the first one is soiled. Limit exfoliation to one treatment before you go to bed if your skin is dry or sensitive. However, you can add a second exfoliation in the morning if you experience no redness or irritation. If your skin is oily, you can safely exfoliate two nights per week 1.

Smooth a light moisturizer over your skin after exfoliation if your nose is dry. Don't moisturize if your skin is oily because you may clog the pores.

Home Remedies

Baking Soda vs. Sugar on the Face

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Combine 1 tablespoon sugar with just enough warm water to make a thick paste. If your skin is dry, mix the sugar with olive oil or jojoba oil. In place of sugar, you can use natural ingredients such as cornmeal, wheat germ or uncooked oatmeal. Grind coarse ingredients in a blender or coffee grinder first.

Wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, then spread the scrub gently over your nose.

Massage the scrub into your nose for two to three minutes, using gentle, circular motions 1.

Rinse the scrub with lukewarm water, then pat your nose dry with a soft towel.

Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry.

Tips

Alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids are over-the-counter products. They are usually labeled AHA BHA pads, peel pads or swipes.

Warnings

Apply a sunscreen that contains an SPF of at least 15 every time you go outdoors, even on cloudy days. The acids in the cleansing pads make your nose more susceptible to sunburn. Use a non-comedogenic product to prevent clogged pores if your nose is oily.