The appearance of “holes” on your nose is a common observation, pointing to two natural features: the nostrils and the skin’s pores. Both are normal anatomical structures with distinct bodily functions. Understanding them can alleviate any concerns.
Your Nose’s Natural Openings
The most obvious “holes” in your nose are the nostrils, entry points to the nasal cavities. Divided by the nasal septum (bone and cartilage), these cavities form two distinct passages. Air enters through the nostrils into these passages, where it is conditioned before reaching the lungs.
Inside the nasal cavities, cilia and mucus membranes filter, warm, and humidify incoming air. Cilia trap dust and foreign particles, while mucus captures impurities. This combined action, known as the “mucociliary escalator,” moves trapped particles towards the throat to be swallowed or expelled, preventing them from entering the lungs. Turbinates, folds of tissue, further slow airflow and maximize air exposure to this conditioning environment.
Exploring Nasal Pores and Their Appearance
Beyond the nostrils, smaller “holes” on the nose are pores. These tiny openings house hair follicles and sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum, an oily substance that moisturizes and protects the skin.
Nose pores often appear more prominent because sebaceous glands in this area are larger and more active, leading to increased oil production. Factors contributing to their noticeable appearance include genetics, as pore size can be inherited. Skin type also plays a role; oily skin leads to more visible pores due to excess sebum that can clog and stretch openings. Dry skin can also make pores noticeable as it may overcompensate with more oil.
Pores clogged with sebum and dead skin cells form “plugs.” If open to air, sebum oxidizes and darkens, creating blackheads (open comedones). If closed, the trapped mixture forms a whitehead, a small, flesh-colored or whitish bump. Squeezing them can lead to inflammation, infection, and scarring.
Regular skincare, like cleansing twice daily and exfoliating two to three times weekly, helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil, making pores less noticeable. Using non-comedogenic products and daily sunscreen also prevents pore enlargement and damage.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While nasal openings and pores are normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent nasal congestion lasting over 10 days, or a high fever with nasal symptoms.
Other concerning signs include yellow or green nasal discharge, possibly indicating a bacterial infection, especially with sinus pain or fever. Bloody nasal discharge or a persistent runny nose after a head injury also requires prompt medical evaluation. Additionally, if you notice unusual changes in nose shape, persistent pain, or difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, an ENT specialist can determine the cause and treatment.