Abstract: A dispensing nozzle for applying a coating to a substrate has a valve seat, a valve element adapted for being displaced between a closed position in which it interacts with the valve seat so as to close a connection between a coating material inlet and a coating material outlet of the dispensing nozzle, and an open position in which this connection is open. Further, a retraction element adapted for being displaced between a forward position and a rearward position is provided, the retraction element being in fluid communication with a dispensing channel of the dispensing nozzle downstream of the valve element.