Medications often don’t deliver relief for allergy sufferers. Some can’t take allergy meds because of side effects. Is there another way to stop those airborne allergens from causing trouble? Nasal screens and gels promise to keep allergens from entering your nose so you can go medication free.

Here are some of the products or techniques/devices you can try that may help shield you from allergens.

Chloraseptic Allergen Block for adults and Little Allergies Allergen Block for children

Both are identical gels that may trap allergens and prevent them from entering your nose. Each product contains petroleum jelly, glycerin and electrostatic positively charged molecules that supposedly attract negatively charged pollens. The product works on the principle that opposites attract. The allergens get stuck on the gel instead of up your nose.

A .1-ounce gel package offers 150 applications and sells for about $10-$14. A small dab of the gel must be applied underneath the nose and around the edges of the nostrils every four to six hours or as needed.

A television ad for Allergen Block says it "creates an invisible shield that helps block airborne allergens before they travel up your nose." The product was invented by an engineer who wanted to help relieve his daughter’s allergies.

According to information on the Allergen Block website, the gel protects against ragweed, pollen, dust mites, pet dander and house dust. It also may help prevent sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy nose and runny nose.

The product is not a drug and inexpensive, and may be worth a try.

First Defense Nasal Screens

Face masks have long been considered your best alternative if you want to keep from breathing in allergens. While screens may work well, most people won’t wear them because they look funny.


Now, you can try First Defense Nasal Screens which work on the same principle as a face mask but are miniature and are less obvious. Http://www.filteryourlife.com/ These mini screens which you apply to each nostril look a little like a band aid up close. From ten or more feet away, they are barely noticeable.

According to the First Defense Nasal Screen website, the screens block up to 99 percent of airborne allergens, including pollens, germs, bacteria, pet dander, molds, dust and other contaminants. The product may help you breathe cleaner air without drugs. The product is recommended for people with allergies as well as for people in certain occupations like firefighters and construction workers.

The package of seven sets of screens sells for $9.69 on Amazon. I spend a lot of time outdoors and will order this product.

Other options for keeping allergens away from your nose

•Vaseline or petroleum jelly: rub on the outside of your nose to stop pollen from entering your nose.

•Wear wrap around sunglasses and a brimmed hat to block pollens from reaching your face.