Your partner nudges you because you're snoring, or you wake up with a dry mouth. Sound familiar? Then you've probably heard of nasal strips against snoring. But how does such a simple strip actually work, and what can you realistically expect from it? In this article we explain it honestly.
What exactly is a nasal strip?
A nasal strip is a flexible plaster with a small springy band inside. You stick it on the bridge of your nose, just above your nostrils. That's all it is: no medication, no sprays, nothing to swallow. That's exactly why nasal strips are so popular with people looking for a simple way to breathe more freely through the nose.
How a nasal strip works
The secret is in that springy band. As soon as you stick the strip on your nose, the band wants to return to its straight shape. This gently pulls your nostrils outwards and upwards. Your nostrils open up a little further, so you can breathe more easily through your nose.
You usually notice the effect right after applying it: your nose feels more open. That's also exactly the moment many people understand why athletes wear nasal strips while running or cycling.
What does that have to do with snoring?
Snoring often starts when you begin breathing through your mouth at night. That happens more quickly when your nose feels blocked or narrow. Your body automatically chooses the path of least resistance: your mouth falls open, and for many people it's precisely that mouth breathing that causes the familiar sawing sound.
A nasal strip tackles this at the source. By lifting your nostrils, the strip makes nasal breathing easier and more comfortable. For many people that means: less of a tendency to breathe through the mouth, and therefore a quieter night. Let's be honest: snoring has multiple causes, and a nasal strip is no miracle cure. But if your snoring is linked to a blocked or narrow nose, it's one of the simplest things you can try.
How to use a nasal strip properly
- Clean and dry your nose. Skin oils or day cream reduce the adhesive strength, so a quick wash and dry helps.
- Stick the strip on the bridge of your nose. Just above the nostrils, on the soft part. Press it down firmly for a few seconds.
- Go to sleep. The strip does its work for the rest of the night.
- Remove it gently in the morning. The easiest way is during or after washing your face, when the adhesive comes off smoothly.
What to look for when choosing nasal strips
Not every nasal strip is the same. These are the three things that make the difference:
- Skin-friendliness. You wear the strip on your face all night, so the material needs to be gentle on your skin. The standard Comformidable nasal strips are dermatologically tested and rated very good by Dermatest®. Good to know if you have sensitive skin.
- Balanced adhesive strength. A good strip stays on all night, but comes off in the morning without pulling.
- Visibility. Do you also wear the strip during the day or while exercising? Then choose a transparent nasal strip that is barely noticeable.
Just want a good supply for every night? Then the value pack with 100 nasal strips is the logical choice. Not sure which variant suits you? Browse all the nasal strips in the collection.
Frequently asked questions
Do nasal strips also work when I have a cold?
Yes, that's exactly when they're helpful. A nasal strip widens your nostrils a little, making breathing through a congested nose feel more comfortable. With heavy congestion, you can easily combine the strip with a salt water nasal rinse.
Can you use nasal strips every night?
Yes, nasal strips are made for daily use. Do use a new strip every night and give your skin a break if it feels irritated.
Can you feel a nasal strip while sleeping?
The first night you'll notice it for a while; after that, most people forget it's even there. Comformidable strips are light and flexible, so they simply move with your face.
I mainly snore with my mouth open. Will a nasal strip help?
A nasal strip makes nasal breathing easier, but does not keep your mouth closed. If you really sleep with your mouth open, also consider mouth tape as an addition. The combination of both addresses the nose as well as the mouth.
Curious what a clear nose can do for your nights? Just try it for a week and notice the difference.