Learn about the pros and cons of using Neoporin in the NoseTrick

We all love surfing – you’re not just “in nature,” you’re literally IN nature. This means you’re exposed to plenty of environmental hazards, such as salt water, sand, sun, wind, and bacteria. Some surfers swear by a special Neosporin in the nose trick before hitting the waves. This involves lightly rubbing Neosporin inside the nostrils when bacteria levels in the water are high. At TKM Surf, our values are 1. Respect yourself, 2. Respect others, and 3. Respect the Ocean. So what’s the verdict? Is this practice safe and effective? Should you do it even if you’re healthy or only if you have minor cuts or bleeding? Here are some of the pros and cons of using Neosporin in your nose while surfing.

Pros of the Neosporin in the Nose Trick

• Neosporin can help prevent bacterial infections in minor cuts or abrasions inside the nose. According to Healthline, Neosporin contains three types of antibiotics: neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin. These antibiotics work together to kill bacteria and promote healing.
• Neosporin can help moisturize the nasal passages and prevent scabbing. Dryness and scabbing can slow down the healing process and cause more irritation. Neosporin can provide moisture to the epithelial cells, which are responsible for repairing the skin. MSN explains that Neosporin can also act as a barrier against the drying effects of salt water, wind, and sun.
• Neosporin can help reduce bacterial buildup in the nose. The nose is a major filter for bacteria, which can be inhaled from the air or water. Some bacteria can colonize the nasal passages and increase the risk of infection. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that using triple antibiotic ointment in the nose can reduce the amount of bacteria in the nose.

Cons of the Neosporin in the Nose Trick

• Neosporin can cause allergic reactions or irritation in some people. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to one or more of the ingredients in Neosporin, such as neomycin or bacitracin. This can cause itching, swelling, redness, or rash in the nose or around the mouth. According to Healthroid, some people may also experience burning or stinging sensations when applying Neosporin to their nose.
• Neosporin can interfere with the normal flora of the nose. The nose contains beneficial bacteria that help protect against harmful pathogens. Using Neosporin too often or for too long can disrupt this balance and kill off some of the good bacteria. This can make the nose more vulnerable to infections by other microorganisms, such as fungi or viruses.
• Neosporin cannot prevent viral illnesses or infections deeper in the nose. Some people may mistakenly believe that using Neosporin in their nose can prevent them from getting sick with colds, flu, or COVID-19. However, these illnesses are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Neosporin has no effect on viruses and cannot stop them from entering or multiplying in the body. Moreover, Neosporin only works on the surface of the skin and cannot reach deeper into the nasal cavity or sinuses.

How to Use Neosporin in Nose Safely

If you decide to use Neosporin in your nose while surfing, you should follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Apply a small amount of Neosporin to a cotton swab or pad.
3. Gently apply it to the area just inside the nostril, taking care not to put the swab too high up the nostril or to swab too harshly and cause bleeding.
4. Repeat on the other nostril.
5. Wash your hands and dispose of cotton swabs or pads.

You should not use Neosporin more than three times a day unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You should also stop using it if you notice any signs of allergy or irritation, such as itching, swelling, redness, or rash. If you have a severe or persistent infection in your nose, you should see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Our Verdict: Way-of-the-kook.

This trick seems to have “tricked” people. Neosporin in the nose won’t safeguard you against bacteria in the ocean unless you are using it to guard nicks and scabs, and even then, it will wash off. While it won’t hurt you, it may provide a false sense of security on a day that you shouldn’t be in the water at all. If bacteria levels are too high, then stay out of the water and research some ways to help clean up the ocean!