Water in the nose

[dmaziuk]

If you are getting water up your nose when your mask is off, it is most probably uncomfortable at best, and painful at worst. To avoid this, maintain a slow exhale through your nose when your mask is off, and then clear properly when you replace the mask. Many divers, especially new divers, have an issue with nose breathing. With time, the problem should become less and ultimately go away.
DivemasterDennis

I don't expect that's any use to the OP, but using your upper lip to cover up your nostrils is an essential swimming technique when doing flip turns, especially in backstroke.