How to Use Nicotine Pouches (Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide)

Introduction

Nicotine pouches have quickly become one of the most popular alternatives to smoking and vaping. They’re smoke-free, odour-free, and discreet, making them perfect for work, university, or on the go.

But if you’re trying them for the first time, it’s normal to wonder: How do you actually use nicotine pouches?

Unlike cigarettes or vapes, there’s no lighter, no charging, and no cloud of smoke. Still, using them correctly makes the experience smoother and prevents common mistakes.

Here’s your step-by-step beginner’s guide to using nicotine pouches the right way.

Step 1: Pick the Right Strength

Strength is one of the most important choices for new users. Start too strong, and you may feel dizzy or nauseous.

• Light (6 mg) → For first-timers or occasional use. Try Smooth Mint 6 mg.

• Medium (12 mg) → Balanced for everyday users. Try Ice Cool 12 mg.

• Strong (18 mg) → For experienced users or ex-smokers/vapers. Try Peppermint Freeze 18 mg.

👉 Pro tip: If you’re unsure, start with a lighter strength and work your way up.

Step 2: Placement

Using a pouch is simple:

1. Take one pouch from the can.

2. Place it under your upper lip, either left or right side.

3. No chewing, no swallowing—just let it sit.

Why the upper lip?

Research shows nicotine uptake is faster and more consistent under the upper lip, thanks to salivary glands in that region. This leads to smoother absorption compared to the lower lip.

👉 With NOMA’s moist, ultra-slim pouches, placement is comfortable and discreet, with no bulging or irritation.

Step 3: Relax & Enjoy

• Typical usage time: 20–40 minutes.

• NOMA’s moist pouches release flavour and nicotine gradually.

• A light tingling sensation is normal—it’s the nicotine at work.

Enjoy the flavour, go about your day, and remove the pouch when you’re done.

Step 4: Dispose Properly

Never swallow a pouch. When you’re finished:

• Use the catch lid built into every NOMA can.

• Dispose responsibly—don’t litter or toss it on the ground.

👉 The built-in lid means you can stay discreet even when you’re not near a bin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Beginners often make these errors:

❌ Stacking multiple pouches → Overloads nicotine, causing nausea or dizziness.
❌ Chewing or sucking → Pouches are not designed for this and it ruins the experience.
❌ Leaving it in overnight → Can irritate gums if left too long.

A 2023 survey of pouch users in Europe found that over 30% of beginners reported nausea or irritation, mostly due to incorrect use (too strong, too long, or chewing). Correct usage significantly reduced these complaints.

Why Technique Matters

Using pouches correctly makes them:

• More enjoyable → Better flavour, smoother absorption.

• More discreet → Nobody notices you’re using one.

• More reliable → Less chance of discomfort.

With NOMA’s leak-free, moist pouch technology, you also avoid the common issues seen with mass-produced brands like Zyn or Velo, where users often complain about dryness, leaking, or inconsistency.

Conclusion

Nicotine pouches are simple, discreet, and built for modern life. But using them correctly ensures you avoid the common pitfalls that trip up first-timers.

• Choose the right strength for your level.

• Place the pouch under your upper lip.

• Relax for 20–40 minutes.

• Dispose responsibly using the catch lid.

👉 Ready to start your journey? The best way to find your fit is with the Icebreaker Variety Pack, where you can explore multiple strengths and flavours.