What Are the Effects of Snus?

It's important to note that the sale of traditional tobacco-based snus is currently prohibited in the UK under the Tobacco and Related Products Act 2016; however, tobacco-free alternatives are legally available. 

• Snus can cause side effects like gum irritation and dizziness.
• Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth, triggering short-term effects.
• Tobacco snus is banned for sale in the UK; tobacco-free options are legal.

Like all tobacco products, snus carries health risks.

The effects of snus can vary between users, largely due to its two main ingredients: nicotine and tobacco.

One of the most noticeable side effect of snus is tooth discoloration, caused by the brown pigments in tobacco.

For new users, snus may also trigger nausea during the first few uses as they adjust to the tobacco juices.

Additionally, some users report visible effects on their gums, such as reversible gum inflammation (gingivitis).

Nicotine, another key component, can cause its own set of side effects.

Some users may experience headaches, nausea, or dizziness, especially when using high-strength snus or consuming too much nicotine.

Symptoms of nicotine include an initial spike in blood pressure and heart rate, followed by a sudden drop, which in extreme cases could lead to a coma if not treated.

Given these risks, it’s important to use the amount of snus that feels right for you. 

When using snus, the nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes in your mouth. 

The nicotine in snus triggers an increase in dopamine, which activates the brain's reward system, leading to feelings of both relaxation and stimulation.

However, it’s important to note that nicotine levels peak quickly after entering the bloodstream, so these effects are often short-lived. 

To learn more about snus, be sure to check out our informative "What is Snus" article. 

The experience of using snus varies from person to person, but generally, users report a combination of stimulation, a "buzz", and relaxation.

Once placed under the lip, snus releases nicotine gradually, leading to a slight tingling sensation in the mouth.

As nicotine enters the bloodstream, users may feel a boost in alertness and focus, accompanied by a brief "buzz" or headrush.

At the same time, the increased dopamine levels can create a calming or soothing effect.

The initial rush of nicotine from snus is typically followed by a more mellow, sustained feeling.

For those who are not used to snus or with a lower nicotine tolerance, these sensations may be more intense, sometimes leading to light-headedness or dizziness.

Snus users typically feel the effects within moments of placing the pouch under their upper lip.

The initial buzz from the nicotine is brief, usually lasting a few minutes.

However, the pouch can remain in place for about 30 minutes, or until the flavour and effects start to fade, after which it should be removed.

All-white nicotine pouches are a modern, tobacco-free alternative to traditional Swedish snus. Unlike snus, which uses tobacco, these pouches contain nicotine without the tobacco, meaning there's no lingering tobacco smell.

This tobacco-free formula gives them their "all-white" appearance and helps avoid the tooth discoloration often associated with traditional snus.

Popular brands of all-white nicotine pouches include ZYN, Velo, and On!, all of which offer a wide range of flavours and strengths to suit different preferences.

From mint and citrus to more unique blends, users can find a flavour that suits their taste, while varying nicotine strengths allow for greater control over the intensity of the experience.

Both snus and all-white pouches are used in a similar way - placed under the lip for nicotine absorption - but the key difference lies in the ingredients, offering users different experiences and benefits depending on their preference for tobacco or a tobacco-free option.

For an in-depth comparison of snus and nicotine pouches, check out our article, “Differences between Swedish Snus and Nicotine Pouches”.