Nicotine Replacement Therapy: Does it work?
We take a brief look at the types and effectiveness of Nicotine Replacement Therapy and how the skin benefits from quitting tobacco smoking.
At VIVO Body Studio, we are extremely fond of healthy, younger-looking skin. Why else would we be offering treatments such as the extremely popular Non-Surgical HIFU Facelift, Cryotherapy for Skin Imperfections, and Plasma Eye Lift Blepharoplasty?
All of the above-mentioned treatments are non-invasive, comfortable and super effective.
Having read the title, you are probably wondering, ‘Why am I being lectured about healthy skin and all these wonderful treatments that will make my skin softer and more supple?’
To get to the point – quitting smoking making can do wonders for your skin. Yes, the benefits to your overall health are countless. Your heart beats better, your lungs breathe clearer, and your sense of smell and taste become keener. And let’s not forget, your wallet, too, starts to feel heavier.
However, the skin is our focus.
Tobacco smoke contains over 4000 chemicals, and most of them are responsible for damaging collagen and elastin. Furthermore, smoking results in the deprivation of oxygen and nutrients supply to the skin. More often than not, a smoker’s skin is more likely to lose elasticity and form wrinkles at a younger age than most. It also tends to form age spots and develop a pale appearance.
However, quitting smoking is not at all an easy endeavour.
What is Nicotine Replacement Therapy?
While many people can and have successfully quit smoking by going cold turkey, most people need a little extra help.
In recent years, electronic cigarettes have become a trendy alternative to regular tobacco cigarettes. Although smoking an e-cigarette or vaping is a safer nicotine intake method, it still has poses many of the same risks. There is a more effective method to quitting smoking altogether.
Doctors and medical experts recommend smokers use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to help them quit. NRTs come in many forms, and they are meant to help overcome the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting cigarettes.
The different types of NRT:
- Chewing gum
Nicotine gums are over-the-counter products and can be found containing various amounts of nicotine content ranging from 1mg to 4mg. - Lozenges
Similar to gums, nicotine lozenges can be bought over-the-counter. These also have various nicotine content ranges. - Inhalators
Inhalators are plastic pipes with disposable nicotine cartridges. One can use them like they are smoking cigarettes, minus the smoke and tobacco. - Inhalers
They are similar to the inhalers asthma patients use. They can be acquired through prescriptions only. The inhaler devices deliver a precise amount of nicotine to the lungs in the form of aerosolized bursts.
- Nicotine patches
These look like adhesive plasters. You can buy them over the counter and stick them to your arm. The patches are transdermal and transfer nicotine into the bloodstream by being absorbed through the skin.
- Nasal sprays
The name is pretty self-explanatory: medicinal sprays that deliver nicotine to your system after spraying them through your nasal cavity. Nicotine nasal sprays can be purchased using prescriptions only.
How effective is Nicotine Replacement Therapy?
According to a study published in 2018, NRT can increase the chances of quitting permanently by 55%. However, these are still tools to help you through the difficult withdrawal symptoms.
Without a proper strategy, most people attempting to quit can fall off the wagon, even they are using NRT. Some of the most common steps you can include in your quitting strategy can include:
- Making a plan where you have a set date, after which you will not even take a single drag.
- Sticking to the plan by telling yourself that you are a non-smoker now.
- Starting an easy exercise regime. Physical exercises have shown to help to increase the chances of permanently quitting cigarettes.
- Reminding yourself why you are quitting. Making a list of your goals make it easier, whether it is to achieve a healthier lifestyle, save money or achieve the best skin possible (wink!).
This NHS webpage has some exceptionally useful self-help tips that are sure to help.
NRT can be an absolute blessing in your plight to kick the habit permanently. However, there are many side-effects associated with NRT like nausea, headaches, and dry mouth, among others. It is always best to consult with a doctor when you think you need to use NRT. It is vital that you choose the correct dosage and make sure to use it only as often as required. Nicotine overdose can lead to poisoning.
Quitting smoking is an excellent way to ensure healthy, supple skin. But also, be sure to stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Related Articles
![Artificial Light](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Artificial-Light-1-450x300.jpg)
Artificial Light Is it Bad for Your Health?
Nowadays, the presence of artificial light in our daily lives is at its highest level. Natural light is important for...![Mindfulness Meditation](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Mindfulness-1-450x238.jpg)
Mindfulness, an Introduction
The benefits of mindfulness Mindfulness could be the missing piece of the puzzle when it comes to looking good and...![Lime is a Fantastic Source of Vitamin C](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Lime-1-450x300.jpg)
Vitamin C: 5 Amazing benefits of vitamin C
While vitamin C is an essential nutrient, it also provides several extra health benefits that can help in the long...![Blepharoplasty Soft Surgery](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Blepharoplasty-Soft-Surgery-1-450x300.jpg)
Alternatives to Blepharoplasty Surgery
Sometimes, eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) is medically necessary. For instance, doctors may recommend it to those with superior visual field loss...![International Mens Day](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/International-Mens-Day-1-450x235.jpg)
International Men’s Day: Why Is It Important?
*TRIGGER WARNING: This article covers issues related to mental health such as suicide.* International Men's Day takes place on 19th November every...![Vibrating Belt](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Vibrating-Belt.gif)
The 5 Weirdest Fat Reduction Methods from History
Throughout history, humans have concocted some truly bizarre methods in their quest to shed unwanted pounds. From the peculiar to...![Boost metabolism](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/boost-metabolism-450x167.jpg)
4 Easy Ways to Boost Your Metabolism
Want to lose weight and keep it off? Have you tried every diet out there, but nothing works? If so,...![Hair Removal Process](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Hair-Removal-Process-1-1-450x229.jpg)
Laser Hair Removal Birmingham
Permanent laser hair removal at VIVO Body Studio Birmingham At VIVO Body Studio Birmingham, we use advanced and effective laser...![Plasma Eye Lift](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Plasma-Eye-Lift-1-450x311.jpg)
Is Eyelid Surgery Right for You?
In this two-part article, we explore the circumstances which may require eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty), the benefits/drawbacks of surgery and the alternatives...![A Woman's Underarm Area after a Laser Hair Removal Treatment](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Laser-Hair-Removal-1-2-450x300.jpg)
Laser hair removal: The best time to begin treatment
You want to be ready for all the summertime beach fun; near the end of autumn would be the perfect...![World Map Made from Spices](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/World-Map-Made-from-Spices-450x300.jpg)
Spices to naturally boost the immune system
A brief look at four everyday spices that go a long way in helping the body stay healthy and strong....![Celebrities Featured](https://vivoclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/celebrities-featured-450x300.jpg)
Why celebrities now opt for non-surgical skin treatments
There is a pressure in Hollywood to remain young forever. Most of the celebrities have turned their attention towards non-surgical...Happy Customers
Been using Vivo clinic for a while and just wanted to mention the level of service provided from Tash is unbelievable. Sometimes its not the product you come back for its the level of service. Tash has always been brilliant and goes the extra mile each time. Credit to the company!
I have been going for treatments with Rosanne in the Belfast clinic for the past couple of years. 5-star treatment every time! Rosanne is very knowledgeable about all the various treatments and great with recommendations tailored to your needs. Would highly recommend.
Tasha was amazing she explained everything and she was very welcoming. She was amazing at what she did and her advice was great. I definitely will be going back here.
I had a radio frequency facial, hifu facial and plasma pen treatment with Cherie. I am thrilled with the results and found the whole experience very relaxing. As a 59 year old woman, my complexion has never looked as good as it does now for a long time. I would definitely recommend the treatments and of course Cherie. I will be returning for more treatments.
Hi
I had Tini as my therapist at the Manchester Vivo clinic she was amazing, she explained the treatment in detail, was thorough and efficient and professional - I would give her 10/10 and highly recommend her - A BIG Thanks to Tini xxx
This was my second treatment. The salon is lovely with a pleasant waiting area. My therapist, Misbah was knowledgeable and professional and put me at ease straight away with her friendly demeanor - I felt comfortable and relaxed throughout. The treatment is slightly uncomfortable but I chose to have the highest setting to get the maximum benefits - you can reduce it to a lower setting if you find it uncomfortable. I would definitely recommend going - try and book with Misbah as she goes the extra mile to make you feel relaxed and pampered.
Again had a treatments with Rosanne, a chin reduction, all I can say a game changer, definitely always take Roseanne recommendations, it makes a great to go to a cosmetologist, that face is not like plastic and recommends non injectables as a treatment , thank you Roseanne 🤩
I just had my last set of fat freezing with Taylor yesterday and as usual a lovely experience, Cherie did my previous sessions and both ladies are so friendly and knowledgeable. For all my sessions I felt comfortable and was put at ease as they answered all my questions. Great experience with both Taylor and Cherie would definitely book again, even for a nice afternoon of chatting with them! 10/10 service xxx
I had a wonderful experience with Rebecca in the Belfast clinic. She was very caring and professional. I felt comfortable and relaxed during the
treatment. Highly recommend Vivo Clinic in Belfast.
I had Tini as my therapist at the Manchester Vivo clinic she was amazing, she explained the treatment in detail, was thorough and efficient and professional - I would give her 10/10 and highly recommend her - A BIG Thanks to Tini xxx
treatment. Highly recommend Vivo Clinic in Belfast.