Nicotine Pouches and Dating
Not too long ago, I wrote an article about responsible enjoyment in social situations, and a part of it was about dating. After I finished that little paragraph I told myself I’d come back later and do a full article on dating. I have some experience in this myself, and I also have friends who have been in the same boat, both as smokers and as nicotine pouch/snus consumers, so it’s an interesting discussion. I don’t think anyone has ever sat down to talk about this, or write an article about it, so I thought it would be fun. I know this is a topic a lot of people are curious about, for various reasons, so it’s time there was something out there about this very interesting topic.
I quit smoking in my mid 20’s. But I remember what it was like as a smoker. It wasn’t much fun. Women here definitely didn’t dig it. When I became a snus user, however, that represented it’s own set of challenges. Living in the Southern US, women viewed snus the same as dip, and most found that as unattractive as smoking. I imagine in other regions, such as Sweden, the reaction may be different. When I met my wife, she wasn’t judgy about it, and I did a proper explanation of what snus was, and I’ve openly used it with her ever since our first date with no issues. A lot of it is about honest, open communication. We’re going to cover all that, and more in this article.
So, let’s dive into this topic!
Smoking is generally seen as unattractive
I know from experience back when I was a smoker that women were not fans of it. I would often say I wasn’t a smoker, but some would tell me that they could smell it. Trust me, that smell is not something you can easily get out of your clothes. If I would smoke after a meal, I would often see the looks my date would give me. This is, of course, my personal experience, but I wanted to go further into it. I found an interesting piece from Psychology Today that notes smokers were viewed as less healthy, less desirable as a dating partner, less sophisticated, less mature, and generally less attractive. This is observable in society. It’s not like back in the 50’s when everyone smoked, and it was considered to be attractive. With what we know now about smoking, people are wise to it. I mean, do you want to marry someone who smokes and could get cancer and die. That means there’s no hope of a long relationship. So it’s not so much about how you look, but it’s also about the image you’re giving someone you’re pursuing as a dating partner.
How to properly explain snus and nicotine pouches to a dating interest
Depending on where you live, there may be different views of snus and nicotine pouches. If you’re in Sweden, a dating partner may not be as judgy about it. If you’re in the Southern US, women may equate it to dip, which most here find to be unattractive. The reactions vary all over the world, depending on where you are. However, one important aspect is to properly explain it to a dating companion. You don’t want to overwhelm them though. If you’re pulling out scientific data, they’re going to get bored. So, you want to explain it to them and be honest, but also thorough enough that they understand. When I was dating, I had a quick little spiel I memorized so anytime it came up I could quickly repeat it.
Here’s what I used: “I use snus, it’s a smokeless tobacco product from Sweden. It’s not like dip here, though. It’s made differently, so you don’t have to spit with it. It doesn’t damage your teeth, and has as many cancer causing agents as a cup of coffee”. And, that usually worked pretty well to explain it. Now, with nicotine pouches, you could just add on “…nicotine pouches are slightly safer than snus because they don’t contain tobacco”. Or, do an entirely new speech. Something like this: “I use nicotine pouches. These don’t have any tobacco in them, but they do have nicotine. I also don’t have to spit with these, and they’re super discrete to use.” Those are a little easier to explain than snus. Ultimately, you’ll find a little speech that will work for you. Just remember, keep it simple, because the more complicated it is the more attention you’re going to lose and get locked into a stereotypical view from your dating companion.
There is, now, a wide array of info out there online about snus and nicotine pouches. If they ask you for more info, it’s out there! But don’t bombard them with leaflets and whatnot at first. If they ask for it though, there are resources out there that you can find!
So, you’re on a date, what do you do? Well, it’s all about responsible enjoyment. At first, you may not want to have your can sitting on the table. Nowadays, when I go on a date with my wife, I usually have my can sitting on the table next to my food. But at first, you may not want to. Your date may not be into that. But over time, they won’t care as they get more used to you being a pouch user. But at first, maybe keep it in your pocket. When you’re putting a pouch in, be discrete. I can quickly pop one in my mouth and place it with my tongue. Or, if you don’t do that, tuck it in your palm with your thumb, act like you’re scratching your lip, and pop it in from there. In time, they won’t care but at first, they may want it to be more discrete. Remember, dating is about image. And that’s something to keep an eye on when you’re on a first, or second, date.
One important thing that I want to mention is this: watch where you throw your pouches. It isn’t a good look if you’re throwing pouches all over the place. They can be unsightly, and messy. It also isn’t a good look for the environment, and you may end up on a date with someone who is environmentally conscious. I always advise people to use the catch lid. It’s right there, on top of the can. They put it there for a reason! So, If you aren’t near a trash bin, simply chunk your used portions in the catch lid. Then, you can dump them at a later date. But don’t toss pouches all over the place. It’s just not a good look. And your date will definitely notice it. So, utilize the catch lid, it’s a great tool when you’re out and about!
An important thing I want to close with is this: be respectful! Your date, potential boyfriend/girlfriend, or potential spouse, will have their own preferences. I’ve met some women that don’t like to kiss if you have a pouch in. Some honestly don’t care. But it’s important to have that conversation about what their preferences are. They may have high image standards and not want you sitting your can out when you’re on a date. Honest and open communication is an important part of any relationship, and this is one of those aspects you’re going to want to have a conversation about. But be cool about it. If they’re not into you slinging cans everywhere and pouching while you’re making out, don’t be closed off about it. Or, at least try to find a compromise. Everyone is into different things, and understanding those parts of each other are the key to having a relationship. My wife likes anime. I can’t stand it. But I’ll still watch it with her. Compromise is a major factor in any successful relationship!
The Bottom Line
I hope this little guide of tips, tricks, and info helps you out! Dating can be a complex world on it’s own. I remember being on the dating scene and how much fun it wasn’t. It’s a challenge. There’s a lot you have to think about. A lot of social norms you have to navigate. And being a pouch user is another factor you have to keep in consideration. But it’s all about communication. Let them know what you use and why you use it. Respect their wishes. Be considerate. But, find compromise when needed. It’s a fun world, but it can definitely have it’s share of challenges! Be conscious of your surroundings, especially in social situations, and don’t make a mess with your pouches. Once you get to where you can navigate all these various situations and circumstances, you’ll be good to go!
Want to enjoy your nicotine pouches in a slim and discreet way? Try our mini or slim formats!
Or browse the whole SnusExpress range of nicotine pouches to find your favourite!
