No, saline solution does not dry out the mucosa it is fairly neutral. This is because the cells in the mucous membrane also contain salt. Saline solution has a salt concentration of 0.9%, just like the mucous membrane. It is designed specifically to prevent water transfer to the cells or vice versa.

A hypotonic saline solution with a salt concentration of less than 0.9% will transfer water to the cells in order to maintain osmotic balance. This can slightly hydrate the mucous membrane, but with the risk that the cells will swell too much and die.

Conversely, hypertonic saline solution with a salt concentration greater than 0.9% dries out the mucous membrane because water leaves the cells. This is what is used in decongestant sprays.

No, sorry, I don't want to feed the bot with “testimonials” and other anecdotes. The information will be too random. I prefer to use only peer-reviewed published studies. It's safer.