How to Use ZYN Pouches
ZYN is the brand of nicotine pouch on everybody’s lips & this is the ultimate step-by-step guide to using them if you’re unsure how.
No question is too big or too small as we breakdown these popular pouches from a more practical point of view – like, how to open ZYN, where to put ZYN and how many ZYN a day is too much? Let’s dive in.
Quick Overview of ZYN
Manufactured by Swedish Match and owned by Philip Morris International (PMI), ZYN are the #1 nicotine pouch brand in the US right now. That also makes them one of the biggest contributors to the smoke-free nicotine movement today.
If you’re new to ZYN, it’s worth noting they have:
- 10 tobacco leaf-free flavors (check out the best ZYN flavors according to our customers over on The Northerner Blog);
- 15 Slim pouches in every can;
- 2 strength options (3mg and 6mg).
Using ZYN Step by Step
So, you’ve got your hands on a can of ZYN – but now what? Let’s take you through each step to ensure maximum enjoyment of your nicotine pouch.
Let's Breakdown these Steps
Step 1: Open Your ZYN Can
ZYN is the first of its kind in the industry to manufacture every can with a childproof lid. Opening the can may sound obvious, but to do so, simply peel back the label along the perforated edge until it comes off. Then twist the lid in the same direction as the arrows printed on the can and pull the lid upwards at the same time. This dual action of twisting and pulling is what will prevent young people from accidentally gaining access to your pouches.
Step 2: Position the Pouch
Choose one of the 15 fresh pouches inside and gently rub it between your index finger and thumb for a few seconds to loosen the contents of the pouch. Then place that pouch in your mouth and, either using your fingers or tongue, “park it” between your upper lip and gum. Most people say it’s more comfortable when the pouch is slightly to the left or right (imagine just above your canine tooth), where there is more room than at the front.
Step 3: Enjoy for Up to an Hour
Once the pouch is in place, you can go about your business as if it wasn’t even there. It may tingle in the beginning but, soon enough, your ZYN will be steadily releasing flavor and nicotine. You decide when you’re ready to take the pouch out, but we recommend anywhere between 5 and 60 minutes depending on how much nicotine your body is used to and the ZYN strength you’ve chosen.
PRO TIP: If your ZYN starts to lose flavor, you can reposition the pouch (either flipping it with your tongue or switching the side of your mouth it’s on) to release a little extra.
Step 4: Dispose of the Pouch
Finally, it’s time for you to get rid of your used pouch.
Toss your ZYN directly in a bin and please never litter them! Keep in mind that ZYN doesn't belong in the compost since the contents of each pouch and the actual fibres will take a while to decompose. You should, however, recycle the empty ZYN cans with other hard plastics whenever possible.
Where to Put ZYN: Upper or Lower Lip?
When it comes to using ZYN, a few things are certain: They should never be chewed, swallowed or placed under your tongue. However, the choice of whether to park one of their pouches behind your upper lip or lower lip is something that has been debated.
While both placements are perfectly functional and a matter of personal preference, the upper lip is more common and what we recommend for the following reasons:
- It allows for more efficient nicotine absorption through the mouth lining.
- It’s further away from the salivary glands and minimizes “drip.”
- The pouch is less noticeable in your mouth and easier to talk with while in use.
Users who opt for the lower lip are most likely influenced by traditional tobacco dipping habits. This may not be as comfortable as it increases saliva production and the need to spit but, again, there is no definitive right or wrong – just see what works for you.
If you have any questions about ZYN, make sure to read through our ZYN FAQs.
Explore All ZYN Pouches
How to Use ZYN FAQ
- The nicotine from a ZYN pouch is absorbed into your bloodstream via the mucous membranes in your mouth. Nicotine is an addictive chemical that causes the brain to release adrenaline (causing an elevated heart rate and blood pressure)as well as dopamine (often referred to as the “feel good hormone”). How long nicotine stays in your systemwill depend on a number of factors – like your age, liver function and any medications you’re on, for example.
- No, but they do have a “best before” date on the bottom of each can that you should use them by to avoid a stale experience.
- There is no one-size-fits-all answer here or even a research-backed figure we can provide. The number of ZYNs you consume on a daily basis will vary from person to person based on your weight andgeneral health, plus your experience level with nicotine. That being said, most people report consuming 6-8 pouches a day, which is roughly half a can of ZYN but you may consume more or less. Remember that due to the long-lasting nature of ZYN’s nicotine and flavor release there really isn’t a need to replace the pouches too often. It will come down to listening to your body.