To inhale cigar smoke or not to inhale cigar smoke, that is the question. Although most advice against inhaling cigars, it is not a golden rule. It is a choice you can make for yourself.
People tell you not to inhale cigar smoke because for most people it is very uncomfortable. However, there are also a few cigar lovers that wouldn’t do it any other way.
Which side are you on? Inhale cigar smoke or don’t inhale cigar smoke?
Should You Inhale Cigar Smoke?
Most cigar aficionados will tell you not to inhale cigar smoke but this has nothing to do with the flavor profile. It has to do with the smoke itself.
A cigar, unlike cigarettes, is made of natural materials. These natural materials burn at a higher temperature than the materials in a cigarette. In other words, the smoke is hotter.
This hot smoke is not good for your lungs and can cause a burning sensation in your throat. That is why people that inhale cigar smoke burst into a coughing fit.
Inhaling is not necessary to enjoy a cigar. You will still taste the flavor profile and absorb the nicotine without inhaling.
However, some seasoned cigar lovers may still choose to inhale cigar smoke or rather retrohale. Retrohaling is drawing in some of the smoke and then releasing it again through the nose or mouth. This can deliver a more concentrated flavor profile.
How Do You Smoke a Cigar Without Inhaling?
If you are used to cigarettes then smoking without inhaling may take some getting used to. It is a gentler form of smoking but you will pick it up quickly enough.
Here are some tips to help you smoke a cigar without inhaling.
- Take slow gentle puffs. Imagine a kiss instead of sucking on a straw.
- Draw in just a little smoke and let it float around your mouth without breathing in.
- Purse your lips with a small opening and gradually release the smoke through your mouth.
- Don’t draw from the cigar too often because this increases the heat which in turn releases more smoke. Aim for just one draw every 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Should You Retrohale a Cigar?
Those that have been smoking cigars longer may enjoy retrohaling a cigar. It definitely looks cool but it doesn’t work for everyone and every cigar.
Retrohaling does intensify the cigar smoking experience. As the smoke travels from the back of the throat and out through the nose it passes more sensitive and receptive areas.
The enhanced flavor can taste good but it is not always appropriate. Retrohaling is only recommended for more experienced cigar smokers and only when the cigar is mild.
This is because retrohaling does not come naturally. In the beginning you are likely to inhale instead of retrohale. Since inhaling cigars could burn your lungs it is not exactly the most pleasant thing to practice.
So, if you are new to smoking cigars don’t go straight for the retrohaling. First become accustomed to smoking a cigar without inhaling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Inhale Cuban Cigars?
Most people choose not to inhale a cigar because the flavor and heat is quite intense. This is especially true for all natural handrolled cuban cigars.
Are You Supposed to Inhale Cigarillos?
Cigarillos are smoked in the same manner as regular size cigars. If you don’t inhale cigars then you probably also won’t enjoy inhaling cigarillos.
Does Cigar Smoke Go In Your Lungs?
Yes, even if you are not deliberately inhaling some of the cigar smoke goes to your lungs. Smoke flows freely so you cannot stop some of the smoke from escaping into your lungs.
Summary
Unlike cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos are better enjoyed without inhaling. You don’t smoke cigarettes and cigars in the same manner because they are made differently.
The natural filling and wrapper of cigars makes their smoke hotter. That is why inhaling cigar smoke can be painful and it is damaging to your lungs.
The best way to smoke a cigar is to take slow and small draws, keeping the smoke inside your mouth for a few seconds and then gradually releasing it back out from your mouth.
Another alternative is retrohaling but this requires some practice. Retrohaling does provide a more intense flavoring but it is not suitable for all types of cigars.
Although it is not set in stone, it is generally better to smoke a cigar without inhaling.