Nasal Strips vs Nasal Dilators + How to Apply Nasal Strips
If your nose feels a little blocked at night, you've probably come across two popular drug-free tools: external nasal strips and internal nasal dilators. Both are designed to make breathing through your nose feel easier, but they work very differently. This guide compares them and then walks you step by step through how to apply nasal strips correctly.
What are nasal strips?
Nasal strips are flexible adhesive bands that sit on the outside of your nose, across the bridge just above the flare of your nostrils. Inside each strip is a springy layer that wants to straighten out. As it does, it gently lifts the sides of the nose outward, which is designed to open the nasal passages slightly. Cosmic Strips work this way.
What are nasal dilators?
Nasal dilators are small devices, usually made from soft silicone or plastic, that are inserted just inside the nostrils. They push outward from the inside to hold the nostrils open. They come in different shapes, including cones, clips, and rings.
Nasal strips vs nasal dilators: the key differences
Placement
Strips are external; nothing goes inside your nose. Dilators are internal and sit inside the nostrils.
Comfort
Many people find external strips more comfortable because there's nothing in the nostril. Others dislike adhesive on their skin and prefer dilators. Comfort is very personal.
Reusability
Strips are single-use. Most dilators are reusable after cleaning, though they need regular cleaning and eventual replacement.
Hygiene
Because strips are used once and thrown away, there's no cleaning involved. Dilators need to be washed regularly.
Skin considerations
Strips use adhesive, so they may not suit very sensitive, sunburned, or broken skin on the nose. Dilators avoid adhesive entirely but can feel irritating inside the nostril for some people.
Visibility
Strips are visible on your nose; dilators are mostly hidden. At bedtime this rarely matters, but it can for daytime or exercise use.
Which is right for you?
- Choose nasal strips if you don't want anything inside your nose, you like the convenience of single-use, and your skin tolerates gentle adhesive.
- Choose dilators if you have sensitive skin on your nose or prefer a reusable option.
- Not sure? Try strips first. They're simple, non-invasive, and easy to stop using.
How to apply nasal strips (step by step)
Placement makes a big difference. A strip that's too high or crooked won't lift the nostrils properly.
- Wash and dry your nose. Oils, moisturizer, makeup, and sweat all reduce adhesion. Use soap and water and dry completely.
- Find the right spot. Gently run your finger down the bridge of your nose. The strip should sit just above the flare of your nostrils, where the hard bone ends and the softer cartilage begins.
- Peel the backing. Avoid touching the adhesive too much.
- Center the strip. Place the middle of the strip on the center of your nose first.
- Press the ends down. Smooth each side down along the sides of the nose and press gently for a few seconds.
- Check the feel. Breathe in through your nose. It should feel gently lifted, never pinching or painful.
How to remove nasal strips
In the morning, wet the strip with warm water, then peel slowly from each end toward the middle. Never rip it off quickly.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Placing the strip too high on the bony part of the nose
- Applying over moisturizer or oily skin
- Using a strip on sunburned, irritated, or broken skin
- Reusing a strip, which reduces both hygiene and hold
- Pulling it off quickly, which can irritate skin
Pairing nasal strips with other sleep tools
Strips focus on the nose. If your mouth also falls open at night, many people pair strips with gentle mouth tape or a chin strap. Our Breathe Easy Duo combines strips and tape in one set.
Safety notes
Nasal strips and dilators are comfort products. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. If you have ongoing nasal blockage, frequent nosebleeds, sinus pain, loud snoring, or pauses in breathing during sleep, please see a doctor. Stop using any nasal product if it causes irritation, and don't use them on children unless the product is specifically designed for kids and a doctor approves.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use nasal strips every night?
Many people use them nightly. Give your skin a break if it becomes red or irritated.
Can I use nasal strips during exercise?
Some people do. Make sure skin is dry before applying, since sweat reduces adhesion.
Do nasal strips work for everyone?
No. They're designed to lift the outside of the nose, so they may help less if the blockage is further inside. Experiences vary.
The bottom line
Nasal strips work from the outside and are single-use and simple; dilators work from the inside and are reusable. Both are drug-free ways to make nose breathing feel easier. For many people, strips are the easiest place to start. Just apply them correctly on clean, dry skin.
Shop nasal strips or read more about how nasal breathing works.
