Nasal strips are flexible, adhesive bands designed to gently lift and expand the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion and reducing snoring. These strips contain spring-like bands that apply an outward force to the sides of the nose. The goal is to prevent the collapse of the nasal valve, the narrowest part of the airway, which often contributes to significant airflow resistance during inhalation. Proper application and precise placement are essential for the strip’s mechanical action to maximize the opening of the nasal passages for easier breathing.
Preparing the Skin for Maximum Adhesion
Achieving a secure and lasting bond requires thorough skin preparation. The adhesive must contact skin completely free of natural oils, sweat, or cosmetic residues. Before application, wash the nose and surrounding area with a mild soap and cool water to remove surface contaminants. Avoid hot water, which can leave residual moisture.
Pat the area completely dry with a clean towel, avoiding aggressive rubbing. Wait two to three minutes after drying to ensure any remaining moisture has evaporated. Applying moisturizers, sunscreens, or other skincare products immediately before use will significantly weaken the adhesive, causing the strip to peel off prematurely during sleep. A clean, dry surface ensures the strip stays firmly in place all night.
Precise Placement: Locating the Correct Spot
The physical placement of the strip determines its ability to lift the nasal walls and improve airflow. The target location is the specific area just above the flaring of the nostrils and below the firm, bony bridge of the nose. This region encompasses the soft, flexible cartilage that tends to narrow or collapse inward during deep breathing.
To locate this ideal spot, look in a mirror and identify where the sides of your nose begin to curve outward into the nostrils. The strip must be centered horizontally across the nose, with its lower edge resting just above this flare point. After peeling off the protective backing, place the center of the strip down first, ensuring it is symmetrical on both sides of the nose.
Apply light pressure, smoothing the strip outwards from the center toward the edges, avoiding touching the adhesive surface. Press down firmly along the entire length of the strip for ten to twenty seconds to fully activate the adhesive bond. When positioned correctly, you should feel a subtle, immediate lifting sensation on the sides of your nose, confirming the airways are being gently pulled open. This mechanical lift reduces resistance and makes breathing feel noticeably easier.
Common Mistakes and Proper Removal
Two frequent errors reduce the strip’s effectiveness by misjudging the application height. Placing the strip too high, onto the hard, bony part of the nose, prevents the flexible bands from engaging the soft cartilage below. Conversely, positioning it too low, onto the tip, will not provide the necessary mechanical leverage to open the nasal valve effectively. Failing to press the strip down firmly after placement is another common issue, hindering the full activation of the heat-sensitive adhesive and leading to early detachment.
When removing the strip, take steps to protect the skin from irritation or tearing. The most effective method is to loosen the adhesive with warm water before peeling it away. This can be accomplished by washing the face with warm water for about ten seconds or removing the strip while taking a warm shower.
Slowly peel the strip off, starting from one end and working toward the other, rather than ripping it off quickly. This gradual process minimizes the chance of skin abrasion or removing superficial layers of skin. If the adhesive leaves any residue, a gentle cleanser can be used to clean the area completely.