Nasal dilators are non-invasive mechanical devices designed to enlarge the nasal passages, thereby reducing airflow resistance and stabilizing the lateral nasal vestibule to prevent collapse during inspiration (Alotaibi et al., 2026). These devices are broadly classified into external nasal dilator strips (worn on the bridge of the nose) and internal dilators (stents or clips inserted into the nostrils) (Kiyohara et al., 2016).
Based on clinical evaluations and comparative studies regarding their efficacy in improving nasal cross-sectional area and airflow, the following five nasal dilators are among the most recognized and scientifically supported options.
1. Breathe Right® Nasal Strips
The most widely studied external nasal dilator, Breathe Right strips consist of two firm parallel plastic splints embedded in an adhesive strip (Kam et al., 2014).
- Mechanism: They pull the lateral walls of the nasal vestibule outward to increase the diameter of the internal nasal valve (Kiyohara et al., 2016).
- Efficacy: Research indicates they can reduce nasal airflow resistance by approximately 30% (Linck, 1995) and significantly reduce snoring time in habitual snorers (Matteo et al., 2019).
- Best For: Athletes and individuals seeking a non-invasive, disposable option for nighttime congestion or snoring.
2. Nas-air® (Internal Dilator)
A newer internal nasal dilator that has shown high efficacy in recent clinical trials compared to traditional strips.
- Mechanism: It is an internal stent designed to be placed directly into the nostrils to maintain patency.
- Efficacy: A comparative study found that Nas-air was effective for a larger number of patients than external strips and significantly improved subjective sleep quality (Matteo et al., 2019). It has also been shown to reduce the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) (Alotaibi et al., 2026).
- Best For: Individuals looking for more significant airway expansion than external strips can provide.
3. Max-Air® Nose Cones
Considered a “nasal stent,” this device is inserted into the nostrils to provide circumferential outward force (Kiyohara et al., 2016).
- Mechanism: The cone shape provides structural support to the internal nasal valve, preventing collapse during deep inhalation.
- Efficacy: It is one of the few internal devices that has been scientifically evaluated for its ability to increase the minimal cross-sectional area of the nasal passage (Kiyohara et al., 2016).
- Best For: Users who prefer a reusable internal device that remains secure during sleep or exercise.
4. Airmax™ Nasal Dilator
The Airmax is classified as a “nasal clip” and is made of soft, medical-grade plastic.
- Mechanism: It features a connecting segment that sits beneath the septum, with two wings that push outward on the internal nasal walls (Kiyohara et al., 2016).
- Efficacy: It is scientifically recognized for its ability to relieve internal nasal valve obstruction (Kiyohara et al., 2016). Some studies suggest internal dilators like the Airmax can reduce nasal resistance by up to 31–65%, which is often higher than external strips (Randerath et al., 2011).
- Best For: Chronic snorers or those with a deviated septum who need a comfortable, reusable clip.
5. Mute® (Rhinomed)
Mute is an adjustable internal dilator designed specifically to address snoring by improving nasal breathing.
- Mechanism: It uses a “stent with hole” design that can be adjusted to fit the unique anatomy of each nostril, exerting gentle pressure to keep the airway open.
- Efficacy: While some studies show varying results for specific airflow velocity compared to newer stents, it remains a popular choice for improving peak nasal inspiratory flow (Suzuki et al., 2022).
- Best For: Users who have difficulty finding a comfortable fit with standard-sized internal dilators.
