Transverse Nasal Line

Do you experience allergies, or symptoms of nasal discomfort, such as itching or congestion? Do you have a habit of rubbing your nose upward using a tissue or the palm of your hand?

If so, you might have a dark line across the bridge of your nose. This crease, visually and aesthetically displeasing, can cause mental stress, leading to lingering insecurities and dissatisfaction.

This article will explore the causes and formation of transverse nasal crease. We will identify common symptoms associated with this dark line across the nose and look into different treatment options.

What Is The Dark Transverse Line Across Your Nose?

The dark, linear line, groove or band on the skin across the bridge and between the middle and lower third of your nose is called an allergic crease. It is usually hyperpigmented, meaning darker than surrounding skin, but can be hypopigmented or lighter.

Allergic crease or nasal crease is often seen in people with allergies. These patients, with nasal allergic symptoms, repeatedly rub their noses, leading to formation of this crease.

How Allergic Rhinitis Causes Transverse Nasal Lines?

One of the key causes of this dark line across the nose is allergic rhinitis. It can cause symptoms like a runny nose, itchiness and irritated skin. This often leads to frequent upward rubbing of the nose while sniffling, known as the allergic salute. Over time, a visible horizontal line starts forming.

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is a common condition characterized by allergic response to certain allergens, including:

• Pollen
• Tree
• Grass
• Weed Pollen
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Pet dander

These allergens can lead to inflammation in the mucus lining of the nose triggering various symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy nose
• Itchiness
• Watery eyes
• Itchy throat
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating

Note: The frequency and severity of these symptoms vary from person to person as well as level of exposure to the allergens.

How Are The Transverse Nasal Lines Treated?

The treatment of the nasal crease depends on tha age. Overall, children are affected more than adults by this dark transverse line on their nose.

Treatment In Children

The mainstay of treatment in children is addressing the allergy. Treating the allergy symptoms will decrease the urge to swipe the nose and break the habit. This will help to diminish the line over time.

Treatment In Adults

In adults, the dark line has become a permanent feature due to long standing allergy. It is hard for it to go away on its own even after treating the allergic symptoms. Therefore, it is important to treat both allergic rhinitis and nasal crease separately.

Treatment For Allergic Rhinitis:

The basic treatment regimen for allergic rhinitis is symptomatic. The aim is to reduce the inflammation, as there is no cure for allergies. Options include:

• • • Nasal Sprays for temporary relief of congestion and runny nose.
    • Nasal Corticosteroid Spray to reduce inflammation giving short term relief from symptoms of hay fever
    • A Nasal Wash or rinse can be beneficial to clean the inside of the nose and sinuses, helping with the relief of symptoms.
    • For persistent allergy not responding to the above medications, Sublingual Immunotherapy can be used. A tablet placed under the tongue contains a small amount of allergen. This helps in making the body resistant to allergens over time. However, it needs strict medical supervision.

Treatment Of Nasal Crease

In order to diminish the dark line on the nose, certain topical treatments can be used:

• • • Moisturizers & Creams to keep the skin hydrated which reduces the prominence of creases.
    • Topical Retinoids have been proven to be beneficial in diminishing the appearance of these dark transverse lines.

How Can I Prevent Dark Transverse Lines On My Nose?

Prevention is better than cure. It is possible to prevent these nasal creases by keeping the symptoms of allergic rhinitis in check. If you have hay fever and do not want to get these dark lines, consider the following:

• • Instead of rubbing your nose upward, try blowing your nose.
  • Use a wet wipe or towelette rather than a dry tissue to avoid skin irritation.
  • Moisturize your nose skin to keep it hydrated and prevent crease formation.

Tips For Managing Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms

While allergic rhinitis is usually genetic, however, you can prevent certain allergens to lessen the frequency and severity of attacks.

• • Regularly clean your home with purifiers and keep windows closed during pollen season to decrease exposure.
  • Use nasal washes to remove allergens from inside the nose.
  • Maintain good hygiene using nasal spray to clear nasal passage and decrease inflammation.