It is physically possible to relight a partially smoked cigarette, which involves extinguishing it and reigniting it later for continued use. This practice is generally discouraged due to immediate sensory degradation and altered chemical dynamics. A relit cigarette delivers a smoking experience significantly altered from the original, fresh product.
The Immediate Experience
Upon attempting to relight a cigarette, a user often notices the physical difficulty of ignition. The charred, extinguished end requires a more intense or prolonged heat source compared to a fresh tip. Once lit, the first few draws are commonly harsher and more acrid than the initial smoking session. This is due to cooled, residual smoke compounds that have condensed onto the remaining unburned tobacco and the paper near the burn line.
These condensed residues, including various aldehydes and ketones, produce a stale or “ashtray” flavor when re-combusted. The smoke profile is altered because the tobacco and paper have already been heat-treated and soaked with partially oxidized molecules, changing the combustion properties. This results in throat irritation and a substantially degraded smoking experience.
Chemical Changes in Relit Smoke
The primary scientific concern with relighting a cigarette stems from altered combustion dynamics and the resulting change in smoke composition. When relit, the burn temperature tends to be lower and the combustion process is less complete than a continuously burning cigarette. This incomplete burning process generates higher concentrations of certain toxic compounds.
Studies show that frequent relighters have higher levels of exhaled carbon monoxide (CO), a toxic gas resulting from inefficient combustion. Furthermore, the residual tar, ash, and chemicals that cooled and settled on the tip are vaporized and inhaled directly upon relighting. This leads to a denser, more concentrated intake of volatile organic compounds and other irritants. The practice has been associated with a higher prevalence of conditions like chronic bronchitis compared to non-relighters.
Managing the Partially Smoked Cigarette
For users who choose to extinguish and relight, proper technique can minimize negative sensory effects. The cigarette should be put out by gently pressing the cherry against a clean, non-flammable surface, taking care not to crush the remaining tobacco or tear the paper. Crushing the tip compacts the tobacco, which hinders airflow and causes the cigarette to burn hotter and less evenly upon relighting.
Proper storage is also helpful, as exposed tobacco readily absorbs ambient moisture and odors. The partially smoked cigarette should be kept in a dry, clean container away from strong smells to prevent flavor degradation. To significantly improve the experience and reduce the intake of concentrated residues, the charred, extinguished tip should be removed before relighting. Trimming the end with a clean cut removes the most concentrated source of stale flavor and residual toxicants.