Phil Mackenzie, a 37-year-old Burlington fitness influencer, tried everything to improve his sleep: magnesium supplements, melatonin, eye masks, cold plunges, hot baths with Epsom salts, and saunas. Nothing worked until he discovered mouth-taping.
Despite seeming odd, Mackenzie decided to give it a try. Mouth-taping, the practice of sealing your lips shut with adhesive before bed, has gone viral. Proponents claim it induces deeper, more restful sleep, longer REM sleep, and better morning breath. Notable advocates include Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Graham, with TikTok filled with users demonstrating the technique.
Brodie Mackenzie, Phil’s wife, saw the benefits in her husband and tried it herself. She even launched her own brand, TapeHer and TapeHim, after finding other brands unsatisfactory.
Experts like Lara Perel-Panar, a dentist specializing in sleep therapy, explain that the practice aims to promote nasal breathing, which is more efficient and easier on the body. Nasal breathing filters, humidifies, and warms the air, signaling the nervous system to relax. Conversely, mouth-breathing can dry the mouth, lead to cavities, and cause noisy sleeping.
However, some medical professionals are skeptical. Brian Rotenberg, an ENT doctor, is conducting a meta-analysis to investigate any scientific connections between breathing modes and sleep quality. Sleep doctor Pena Orbea advises against mouth-taping without scientific backing, suggesting underlying conditions like sleep apnea should be addressed instead.
Journalist James Nestor, author of “Breath; The New Science of a Lost Art,” credits his improved sleep to mouth-taping. He advises trying it during the day first to ensure comfort and safety.
For Phil and Brodie Mackenzie, mouth-taping has transformed their sleep, significantly increasing Phil’s REM sleep and improving Brodie’s sleep quality and mood.
Despite divided opinions, mouth-taping continues to gain popularity as people seek solutions for better sleep.