7 Best Nasal Spray for Hayfever of 2024

Hay Fever (allergic rhinitis) causes various symptoms, e.g., a runny nose, itching and sneezing, quickly turning a beautiful day into a nightmare. The nasal sprays prevent this and provide relief by opening the nasal passages, lowering inflammation and soothing the symptoms. Some nasal sprays have natural ingredients, e.g., normal saline, while others rely on synthetic versions of compounds, e.g., corticosteroids. 

With so many options in the market, how can one choose the best products for them? Although the OTC nasal sprays are effective and safe, and brand differences are minor, it is necessary to work with the doctor to find the best products.

We have sorted through the best market choices to select the seven best nasal sprays, their ease of use, safety and effectiveness. The ophthalmologists in the Welzo team reviewed the contents of this article for scientific and medical accuracy.

Different types of nasal sprays  

Before choosing a nasal spray, it is imperative to know the mechanism of action of different nasal sprays. The common types in the market are; 

Steroid sprays

These sprays use nasal corticosteroids, e.g., mometasone, budesonide and Fluticasone, and include Nasonex®, Rhinocort® and Flonase®. 

Antihistamine sprays

These sprays have ingredients, e.g., olopatadine and azelastine and reduce inflammation by blocking histamine. The examples are Patanase® and Astelin®. 

Decongestant sprays

These sprays use ingredients, e.g., phenylephrine and oxymetazoline and reduce congestion and swelling in the nasal passages by constricting the blood vessels. The examples are Neo-synephrine® and Afrin®. 

Saline sprays

These sprays use a saltwater solution to thin mucus, moisten nasal passages, and remove irritants. The examples are Xlear® and Ayr®. 

Product’s Specifications

Benadryl Allergy Relief Spray

Price & availability: £5.36 (buy Benadryl Allergy Relief Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Aqua & salts

Quantity: 15ml

Age limit: Adults & children

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 84 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Benadryl Allergy Natural Relief Spray alleviates hay fever symptoms by cleansing nasal tissues and removing irritants. It relieves runny or blocked noses, restoring the normal cleaning function of the nasal mucosa. It unblocks the nose and relieves congestion due to sinusitis, flu, cold and allergies. Key features are its ability to moisten and clean nasal passages, instant cleansing effect, suitability for all ages (including infants from birth), convenience for on-the-go use and allergen flushing. 

Use one spray per nostril for babies and infants (up to 2 years) and 1-2 sprays per nostril for adults. Consult a doctor about its suitability, and preferably fill out an online consultation form to check eligibility.

Becodefence Plus Allergy Defence (Nasal) Spray

Price & availability: £13.19 (buy Becodefence Plus Allergy Defence Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Organic ingredients 

Age limit: Not specified

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 98 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Becodefence Plus Allergy Defence Nasal Spray offers a fast-acting treatment for nasal allergies and alleviates symptoms, e.g., congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. The 20ml bottle contains a potent yet gentle formula. To use it, shake the bottle, remove the cap, and gently insert the nozzle into one nostril. Hold the bottle vertically and press the pump to release one spray. Repeat in the other nostril. 

Use two sprays per nostril, up to three times daily, but do not exceed six sprays daily. Consult a doctor if uncertain about this medication.

Vicks Sinex Soother Nasal Spray

Price & availability: £4.43 (buy Vicks Sinex Soother Nasal Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Oxymetazoline hydrochloride, aloe vera

Quantity: 15ml

Age limit: Not specified 

User review: 5/ 5 (based on 72 reviews at Welzo) 

Why do we choose it?: Vicks Sinex Soother Nasal Spray delivers temporary relief from nasal congestion due to hay fever, common cold, or other allergies in the upper respiratory tract. It combines aloe vera and oxymetazoline hydrochloride to soothe nasal irritation and reduce congestion. Apply the fine mist spray directly into the nose for effective and fast relief. To use, blow the nose to clear mucus, remove the cap, and tilt the head slightly forward. 

Insert the nozzle into one nostril, close the other nostril with a finger, take a breath slowly and squeeze the bottle to release one spray. Repeat for the other nostril. Use a tissue paper to clean the nozzle and replace the cap. Wait for at least 15 minutes after using before blowing the nose.

Olbas Nasal Spray

Price & availability: £5.94 (buy Olbas Nasal Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Eucalyptus oil, wild mint extract

Quantity: 20ml

Age limit: Adults & children

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 44 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Olbas Nasal Spray (20ml) delivers fast and powerful relief from nasal congestion caused by allergies, colds, or sinusitis. Its natural formula includes essential oils, e.g., eucalyptus, cajuput, peppermint, and wintergreen, which soothe irritated tissues, open nasal passages, and alleviate congestion. The convenient bottle allows quick application of the mist directly into the nostrils. It is suitable for children over six years and adults to maintain clear nasal passages. 

Additionally, it is safe for use during breastfeeding and pregnancy. Olbas Nasal Spray offers a safe, natural, and effective way to benefit from the soothing properties of essential oils.

Pirinase Hayfever Spray

Price & availability: £8.46 (buy Pirinase Hayfever Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Fluticasone propionate 

Quantity: 60 doses

Age limit: Children & adults

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 74 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Pirinase Hayfever Nasal Spray is an intranasal corticosteroid (INCS) containing fluticasone propionate. It alleviates and prevents the symptoms of airborne allergies, e.g., hay fever. The anti-inflammatory action of fluticasone propionate helps reduce inflammation and aids in the control of responses to allergens, e.g., mould spores, dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. 

Pirinase reduces symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and runny eyes, and a blocked nose for up to 24 hours, preventing recurrence. It is suitable for airborne allergies, e.g., hay fever. Get relief today with the Pirinase Hayfever Nasal Spray, and breathe easier with the trusted nasal spray!

Otrivine Extra Relief Nasal Spray

Price & availability: £7.91 (buy Otrivine Extra Relief Nasal Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Xylometazoline hydrochloride (0.5 mg/ml), Ipratropium bromide (0.6 mg/ml)

Quantity: 10ml

Age limit: Children & adults

User review: 4.67/ 5 (based on 76 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray treats nasal congestion and runny nose due to a common cold. It provides a measured dose of active ingredients, Ipratropium Bromide and Xylometazoline Hydrochloride, to alleviate symptoms, e.g., runny nose, congestion, sinus pressure,  and sneezing. Non-allergic rhinitis, causing a runny and blocked nose, results from inflammation due to fluid buildup in nasal tissues and swollen blood vessels. 

This swelling activates mucus glands and narrows nasal passages, leading to typical symptoms. Take control of allergies – order Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray today!" 

Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray

Price & availability: £11.05 (buy Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray at Welzo)

Active ingredients: Mometasone Furoate (o.o5%)

Quantity: 140 doses

Age limit: Young & adults

User review: 4.67/ 5 (based on 92 reviews at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Clarinaze Allergy Nasal Spray relieves hay fever symptoms, e.g., nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. It is formulated to lower inflammation in the nasal passages and offers targeted and fast relief, making it ideal for seasonal allergens, e.g., high pollen counts. The easy-to-use spray bottle allows for a quick and easy application. To use, close the nostril with the fingers, hold the bottle upright, gently insert the nozzle into the nostril, and finally tilt the head slightly forward. 

Breathe gently while spraying the mist into the nostril, and repeat the process for the other nostril. In short, Clarinaze helps manage allergy symptoms, allowing people to continue working without discomfort. Don't let allergies hold you back – try Clarinaze Allergy Nasal Spray now!

Frequently Asked Questions 

How can one stop hay fever? 

Numerous ways are available to stop and prevent hay fever. These are using Vaseline regularly, sniffing salt water into the nostrils, using antihistamine sprays, putting eye drops, using mast cell stabilising sprays and antihistamines and going for immunotherapy. 

What are the natural remedies for hay fever? 

Many natural remedies offer an adequate cure. These include minimising pollen exposure, creating a pollen barrier, using antihistamines and nasal saline regularly, and choosing allergy shots when necessary. 

What is the most important cause of hay fever? 

Hay fever is an allergic reaction due to plant-based particles called pollen. The pollen comes into contact with the throat, eyes, mouth and nose and causes allergies. 

Are antibiotics helpful in hay fever? 

Antibiotics are effective only for bacterial infections and do not interfere with allergic readings, e.g., allergic rhinitis. They are not effective for this purpose and do not treat it. 

How can one stop hay fever without using tablets? 

There are many ways to help a person stop and get rid of hay fever. These are changing clothes frequently, giving a shake to the coat regularly, regularly rinsing the hair, keeping the windows closed, hiding from higher pollen counts, etc. 

Is milk helpful in hay fever? 

Dairy products, e.g., milk, encourage mucus production, worsening the symptoms, e.g., blocked or runny nose. So, milk and milk products, e.g., yoghurt, must be avoided when the hay fever weather is in full swing. 

Bottom-line 

Before choosing the nasal sprays for hay fever, consider factors, e.g., ease of use, efficacy and side effects. The options, e.g., saline solutions, antihistamine sprays, and corticosteroid sprays, are beneficial. The corticosteroids reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms. The antihistamines, on the other hand, reduce itching and sneezing. 

Saline sprays, although milder in action, help in nasal congestion. Ultimately, the choice depends upon individual factors, symptoms, personal preferences and underlying health conditions. Finally, consultation with the healthcare provider is of utmost importance.