Why Does Snus Burn? (And What You Can Do About It)

Our products are tested for nicotine content and pH by Eurofins to ensure they fall within safe and consistent parameters. The results are published on Nicoleaks. Products from unregulated sources may not have undergone this testing and could pose a higher risk of irritation or damage. 

The burn or tingle you feel under your lip when using snus or nicotine pouches is generally a normal, temporary response caused by nicotine absorption and pH-induced permeability of the oral membrane. It is not an indication of immediate damage, provided you use reputable, tested products correctly. 

Choosing the right strength, flavour, product formulation and rotating placement helps you find a comfortable balance of sensation and effectiveness. 

That tingling or burning under your lip happens because of two main factors: 

• Nicotine concentration — higher-strength pouches create stronger sensations. 
• pH level — the absorption of nicotine is faster in a slightly alkaline environment. 

Nicotine is absorbed more efficiently when the pH is slightly above 7. For example, producers raise the pH using food-grade ingredients such as sodium carbonate or bicarbonate. This removes hydrogen ions from the nicotine molecule and helps is cross the oral membrane and enter the bloodstream — which is what most users interpret as the “burn.” 
 

If the pH is too high (for example above ~9) it may irritate tissue; if it’s too low (below ~5.6) there may be risks to enamel. That’s why checking that products are formulated and tested for safe pH is important. 

No - a mild burn or tingle is not a sign of harm by itself. It’s simply the physiological effect of oral nicotine absorption. However, that sensation does not usually indicate danger, and the National Health Service (NHS) states: 

“Nicotine itself does not cause cancer, lung disease, heart disease or stroke and has been used safely for many years in medicines to help people stop smoking.”  

However, it’s important to emphasise that “not dangerous” does not mean “no risk at all.” Long-term or heavy use may lead to other effects (e.g., gum irritation, mouth sores) which are documented in scientific literature.  

If the tingle or burn feels uncomfortable, you can modify how you use the pouch: 

• Choose a lower strength (for example 3-6 mg per pouch). 
• Switch flavours: mint or citrus tend to boost the burn; try smoother flavours such as berry or coffee. 
• Stay hydrated: dryness amplifies irritation. 
• Rotate placement: alternate between sides and lip/gum positions to allow recovery. 
• Give breaks between uses: continuous use in the same spot increases local irritation. 

The sensation typically lasts 1–5 minutes, easing as your body adjusts to the pouch

Some users report a mild throat-tingle when saliva mixed with nicotine or flavouring is swallowed. Nicotine is alkaline, which can cause a slight throat irritation. To reduce it: 

• Avoid intentionally swallowing saliva during use. 
• Drink water before and after. 
• Choose a lower-pH or “softer” (moister or pouch material) pouch. 

This type of throat reaction is temporary and reversible under moderate use.  

Using snus or pouches repeatedly in the same spot can lead to local gum irritation or tissue changes (such as whitening of the gum where the pouch rests). For example: 

“The oral health effects from the use of this product are unknown but likely to be in keeping with other orally administered nicotine products. Localised gingival recession might be seen”  

Such snus side effects are often reversible when usage is reduced or placement is rotated. For instance, a review found no clear evidence linking nicotine (in oral delivery form) to oral cancer, caries or periodontal disease -  though it flagged mouth/throat soreness and ulcers as possible side-effects.  

To minimise gum or tooth issues: 

• Switch sides between uses. 
• Avoid using multiple pouches back-to-back in the same location. 
• Choose pouches with softer materials / more moisture if available. 

Because nicotine pouches may use highly refined salts and higher pH adjustments, the “burn” may feel sharper than for traditional tobacco snus - though both deliver nicotine via the gum/lip membrane. 

Myth 1: The burn means it’s damaging your gums. 
→ No - a mild tingle simply comes from nicotine absorption and pH adjustment. When products are formulated and tested correctly (with pH ~5.6-9.1) the burn is not a sign of damage. 

Myth 2: Stronger burn = better quality. 
→ Not necessarily. A stronger sensation often comes from higher pH or more aggressive flavour, not inherently from “better quality.” What matters is consistent nicotine delivery and safe formulation. 

Myth 3: No burn means it isn’t working. 
→ False. Effective nicotine absorption can occur even with little or no sensation, particularly for more accustomed users or lower-strength pouches. 

If the burning or tingling becomes painful, lasts more than 10 minutes, or if you notice ulcers, persistent soreness, or severe irritation, you should: 

• Remove the pouch and rinse your mouth with water. 
• Wait before using another pouch. 
• Switch to a lower strength or different formulation. 
• Consult a dentist or healthcare professional if irritation persists for more than 48 hours.