Mouth Taping: What Does Science Say About This Trend?

Struggling with sleep? If you've ever found yourself deep in the rabbit hole of internet searches for the latest sleep tips and tricks, you might have come across the trending practice on TikTok known as mouth taping.

This viral trend involves, as the name suggests, taping your mouth shut before bedtime in an attempt to enhance your sleep quality. Typically, people use a soft paper or porous tape, placing it vertically across the closed lips before bedtime, as reported by Everyday Health.

Social media influencers of mouth taping claim it reduces snoring and prevents morning dry mouth. Interestingly, the TikTok hashtag #mouthtaping has garnered 51.7 million views, with users like @heyitsrachael attesting to its benefits. In a video, she shares, "I started putting these on Sunday, and the latest I've gone to bed this week is like 10:30, and I've been waking up at 5:30 in the morning. I feel so rested."

Another TikToker, @brinlie_, excitedly endorses a specific brand of mouth tape, saying, "This mouth tape is the best mouth tape," after trying it for three weeks. She mentioned her preference for placing the tape in an "H" shape above her lips. The TikToker also highlights that with this configuration, if you feel thirsty during the night, you can conveniently take a sip of water through a straw without needing to remove the tape.

However, a word of caution is in order. Just because TikTok users swear by mouth-taping doesn't guarantee its effectiveness or safety for everyone.

Harvard Health Publishing warns against this practice, stating that while intentional nose breathing during waking hours can have benefits, taping your mouth shut while sleeping may pose risks. These potential issues include hampered breathing, disrupted sleep, and skin irritation. Additionally, they said that there is no scientific research supporting the idea, and in some cases, it could significantly reduce oxygen levels during sleep.

Before jumping on the mouth-taping bandwagon, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks and consult with a healthcare professional.

When it comes to maintaining our hair's cleanliness and vitality, the majority of us turn to the trusty bottle of shampoo. But what if we told you there's a whole world of alternative hair cleansing methods? From apple cider vinegar to baking soda, natural alternatives are gaining popularity. Many people are seeking to reduce their reliance on traditional shampoo.

One of the main motivations behind exploring alternative hair cleansing methods is the desire to minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals found in conventional shampoos. By turning to natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, baking soda, or aloe vera, people can effectively cleanse their hair without the worry of harsh additives. These ingredients are gentle on the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth and reducing the risk of chemical-induced damage.

The scalp produces natural oils known as sebum, which nourish and protect our hair. Traditional shampoos often strip away these oils, leaving hair dry and brittle. On the other hand, alternative cleansing methods can help restore the scalp's natural balance by maintaining an optimal level of sebum production. By using ingredients like diluted apple cider vinegar, people can remove excess oil and buildup while still preserving the hair's natural moisture.

Many hair cleansing products contain synthetic chemicals that can be harmful to ecosystems once they're washed down the drain. However, alternative hair cleansing methods offer a more sustainable approach. Ingredients like baking soda are biodegradable and have a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, these alternatives are often more affordable, making them an attractive option for those looking to reduce their household expenses.

However, it's important to remember that everyone's hair and scalp are unique. What works wonders for someone else might not have the same effect on you. That's why it's important to personalize your approach and find what works best for you. Don't be discouraged if it takes a bit of trial and error to find your hair care soulmate.

If you're ready to shake things up and embark on a more sustainable and holistic approach to hair care, check out these six everything-but-shampoo hair cleansing methods.