The way nasal strips (or nose strips or breathing strips, as some people call them) work is relatively simple. Within each Breathe Right nasal strip are flexible 'spring-like' bands. On the underside is a special adhesive that, when placed properly on the nose, gently sticks to the area right above the flare of each nostril. As the bands attempt to straighten back to their original shape, they gently lift the sides of the nose and open the nasal passages, providing immediate and continual relief. Which helps you breathe better – with no medicine and no waiting.