Using snus is a straightforward process, but knowing a few key tips will ensure a comfortable experience and help you avoid any discomfort. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Preparation
- Choosing a product: For beginners, it’s best to start with a portion snus (in pouches) of standard or low strength (8-12 mg/g). White portions are less moist and provide a slower, smoother release of nicotine.
- Hand hygiene: Wash your hands before handling a portion. This is especially important for loose snus (lös), but a good habit for any format.
Step 2: Placement — The Most Important Step!
- Where to place it?Always under your upper lip. This is the classic and correct method.
- Why there? This area has a high concentration of capillaries, ensuring efficient nicotine absorption. Additionally, saliva production is less active there, so there is no need to spit.
- How to place it?
- Take one portion from the can.
- For convenience: Gently squeeze the pouch from the sides with your fingers to flatten it slightly, making it easier to slide under your lip.
- For loose snus: Form a small, compact ball (a “prilla”) with your fingers.
- Lift your upper lip and place the portion directly above your front teeth or slightly to the left or right—wherever it feels comfortable. The pouch should lie flat against your gum.
- Lower your lip and press gently with your finger to secure the portion in place.
IMPORTANT: Never place snus under your lower lip! This will cause excessive salivation, force you to spit, and can severely irritate your gums.
Step 3: The Experience & Sensations
- How long to keep it in? You can keep a portion in for between 20 to 60 minutes, depending on your preference and the product’s strength. The effect usually lasts about 30-40 minutes. Beginners should start with 15-20 minutes.
- What will you feel?
- Initial signs (after 2-5 minutes): You may feel a slight tingling or burning sensation under your lip. This is the nicotine and flavors being released. This is normal.
- The main effect (after 5-15 minutes): You will gradually feel the nicotine’s effect: mild relaxation, focus, and satisfaction (if you had a nicotine “craving”).
- Taste: You will taste the snus (tobacco, mint, fruit, etc.). The flavor will gradually weaken as the portion is “used up”.
- Salivation: When using portion snus (especially white portions), salivation is moderate. You can swallow your saliva — it is safe and will not cause stomach issues due to the production standards of Swedish snus.
Step 4: Disposal
- When the flavor and effect have faded (or you’ve had enough), simply use your finger to lift your lip and remove the portion.
- Dispose of the used pouch in a trash can. It is biodegradable. Do not flush it down the toilet.
- Rinse your mouth with water to remove any leftover tobacco particles.
Important Warnings & Tips
- Don’t overdo it: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or your heart starts racing, these are signs of too much nicotine. Remove the portion immediately, drink some water, or have a snack. Next time, choose a product with lower strength.
- Alternate sides: To minimize gum irritation, try to alternate the side (left or right) where you place the portion.
- Do not chew or swallow the portion! It is meant to be left in place.
- Store it properly: Snus should be refrigerated (but not frozen) to stay fresh and moist.
