How to Use XQS

• Open the XQS can by twisting or lifting the lid and remove one pouch.
• Place the pouch between your upper lip and gum and adjust for comfort.
• Leave it in place for up to 30–60 minutes, depending on your preference.
• Remove the pouch when finished and store it in the disposal compartment built into the lid until you can dispose of it properly.
• If you're an adult nicotine user who is new to nicotine pouches, consider starting with an XQS option that has a lower nicotine strength and shorter sessions before working up to longer use or higher nicotine levels.

Using XQS nicotine pouches requires no preparation and no special equipment. All XQS products come in a slim pouch format, designed to sit comfortably and discreetly under the lip. Follow the steps below.

If you're searching specifically for how to open an XQS can, the process is the same as most other nicotine pouch containers and takes only a few seconds.

1. Hold the can firmly.
2. Twist or lift the top lid to separate it from the base and access the pouches.
3. Remove one pouch, then replace the lid after use to keep the remaining pouches fresh.

XQS cans include a small catch compartment built into the upper section of the lid. This is a dedicated storage space for used pouches when a bin isn't immediately available — a practical feature for use on the go. Once you have access to a suitable bin, empty the compartment and dispose of the used pouches responsibly.

XQS is a Scandinavian nicotine pouch brand that produces tobacco-free pouches in a slim format across a wide range of flavours and strengths. Although sometimes referred to as XQS snus, the products contain no tobacco — they are tobacco-free alternatives designed for under-lip use without smoke, vapour, or residue. For a broader look at the category, browse our tobacco-free snus range.

The XQS range spans Normal, Strong, and Extra Strong nicotine strengths — from 4 mg through to 12 mg per pouch — as well as a selection of 0% nicotine pouches for users who prefer flavour without nicotine. The brand is known for a broad flavour catalogue that covers mint, fruit, berry, citrus, and more unusual profiles like Cactus Sour, Cola Lime, and Elderflower.

XQS Tropical 8mg is among the most popular options on Northerner UK and regularly appears in our bestsellers list. For a full breakdown of how the brand performs across its range, our XQS nicotine pouches review covers flavour, pouch feel, and nicotine delivery in detail.

All XQS nicotine pouches are intended for adult nicotine users only. When using any XQS product:

• Follow the usage instructions included with the product.
• Keep cans out of reach of children and pets at all times.
• Do not swallow the pouch — XQS pouches are designed for under-lip use only.
• Do not use more than one pouch at a time.
• Store cans in a cool, dry place to maintain product quality.
• Dispose of used pouches responsibly. Use the built-in lid compartment when no bin is available.
• Remove the pouch and stop using it if you experience discomfort.

Nicotine is an addictive substance. If you have any concerns about nicotine use or experience an adverse reaction, consult a healthcare professional.

If you're an adult nicotine user new to XQS or to nicotine pouches in general, the following guidance can help make your first experience more comfortable.

The XQS range covers four strength categories: 0% (nicotine-free), Normal (around 4 mg), Strong (around 8–8.8 mg), and Extra Strong (up to 12 mg). If you're new to nicotine pouches, starting with a Normal strength option — such as XQS Tropical 4mg or XQS Orange Apple 4mg — before exploring stronger variants is a popular approach. The full strength breakdown is available on the XQS strengths page, which covers each category in detail.

Not all XQS pouches feel the same, even at similar nicotine levels. Flavour profile can affect how a pouch is experienced. Cooling and menthol-led options — such as XQS Arctic Freeze, Frost Bite, or Crisp Ice — may feel more intense than fruit-forward options like XQS Tropical or Fizzy Peach, due to the additional cooling sensation. This doesn't change the nicotine content, but it can influence the overall experience, especially for newer users.

If you'd like to explore the full range before deciding, our snus flavour guide is a useful starting point for finding a flavour profile that suits your preferences.

Placing a pouch under your lip for the first time can take a little adjustment. Experimenting with position — slightly left or right of centre tends to work better for most users than placing the pouch directly in the middle — helps the pouch sit more discreetly and comfortably. XQS's slim format is designed to have a low profile once in place.

A mild tingling or warm sensation shortly after placing a pouch is common, particularly with higher-strength or cooling mint variants. This is caused by nicotine and flavour compounds interacting with the tissue under the lip and typically lessens as the session continues. If the sensation is pronounced or uncomfortable, remove the pouch immediately. Our guide on why nicotine pouches burn provides more detail on what causes this and when to be cautious.

There is no universal recommended number of pouches for adult nicotine users, and individual preferences vary. If you're new to nicotine pouches, starting with fewer sessions per day and paying attention to how you respond is a practical approach before settling into a routine. Our article on how many nicotine pouches a day covers this topic in more detail for users who want further guidance.

XQS pouches can be used for up to 60 minutes, but there is no obligation to reach that duration. If you're using nicotine pouches for the first time, starting with shorter sessions and extending them gradually as you become more comfortable is a practical approach. How long you keep an XQS pouch in will ultimately come down to personal preference.

Keeping your XQS can stored properly helps maintain pouch quality and freshness. Keep the lid closed when not in use and, where possible, store cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. Our guide on proper snus storage covers best practices in full.

XQS nicotine pouches are straightforward to use whether you're new to the format or already familiar with tobacco-free pouches. Place a single slim pouch under your upper lip, leave it in place while nicotine and flavour are released, and dispose of it responsibly when you've finished.

For adult users who are new to XQS, starting with a Normal strength option and shorter sessions is a sensible first step. The XQS range offers considerable variety across both flavours and strengths, so it's worth taking time to find a combination that works for you.

Before using any product, read the packaging instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer's guidance. Buy XQS on Northerner, where you can browse the full product catalogue to compare strengths, flavours, and formats.