9 Derm-Approved Ways to Help Your Skin Bounce Back From a Cold

A runny nose can definitely cause sore raw skin, which makes it extra important to prevent damage by providing a protective layer to the skin barrier, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD.

"The best thing is to prevent damage to your skin in the first place by providing a skin barrier (protective layer) to protect your vulnerable skin during your cold," Dr. Murphy-Rose tells TotalBeauty. "Petroleum jelly or Aquaphor are excellent emollients to apply." She advises using your fingers to dab a small drop of ointment under the nose, and inside the nostrils to lightly protect your skin. Also, for more severe cases, she recommends using topical hydrocortisone cream to alleviate irritation.

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