Why we’re flagging this: Nicotine is now being sold in very small products that dissolve in the mouth rather than being vaped.
Last checked: 13 October 2026
What are nicotine strips and pearls?
Nicotine strips are thin films placed between the gum and lip. They dissolve during use. Government guidance also recognises nicotine “pearls” as another type of nicotine product.
What’s new?
A brand called NION launched nicotine strips in Manchester and online on 1 October 2026. Its products are advertised in mint and lemon flavours and in 1 mg, 3 mg and 6 mg strengths.
Nicotine pearls are now in UK retail
PERLZ, made by Nordic Spirit/JTI, are fully dissolvable nicotine pearls placed under the tongue. UK listings show Mint and Berry flavours in 1 mg and 2 mg strengths, sold in 10-pearl sachets and 30-pearl pocket dispensers. The manufacturer says each pearl dissolves over roughly 10–12 minutes and leaves no pouch or other product to remove afterwards.
This confirms that nicotine pearls are not just a future product category: a branded version is already available through UK-facing retailers. That still does not tell us how common use is in Wales or among young people.
Why does this matter?
These products are different from vapes and nicotine pouches. They are small, need no device and can leave nothing obvious behind after use.
That may make them harder for parents, schools and youth workers to recognise.
What changes from 29 October 2026?
From 29 October 2026, vaping and nicotine products covered by the new rules can only be sold to people aged 18 or over. The guidance includes nicotine strips and pearls.
What don’t we know?
We do not yet know how widely nicotine strips are stocked, whether they are commonly available in Wales or how many young people use them. Being sold online is not proof that a product is common.
Sources
- NION UK product website
- Nordic Spirit: PERLZ product information
- Welsh Government: Selling vaping and nicotine products
- UK Government: Selling vaping and nicotine products
Read the ASH Wales guide to strips, pearls and newer nicotine products
By ASH Wales