How to Not Look High: Tips for Staying Under the Radar

Being high can be a pleasant experience, but there are times when you may need to look and act more composed. Whether it’s for a professional obligation, a family gathering, or just trying to blend into public settings, knowing how to minimize signs of being high is crucial. From dealing with red eyes and dry mouth to perfecting your body language and mental sharpness, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Combatting Red Eyes

One of the most telltale signs of being high is having bloodshot eyes. When THC enters your system, it causes the blood vessels and capillaries in your eyes to expand, leading to redness. Here are some effective ways to tackle this:

Eye Drops

Eye drops are your first line of defense. Over-the-counter products like Visine, Clear Eyes, or Rohto work by constricting the blood vessels, eliminating the redness. Keep a small bottle handy in your bag or pocket for emergencies.

• How to Use: Apply a drop or two in each eye, wait a minute, and your eyes should clear up.
• Pro Tip: Make sure to use eye drops that specifically target redness relief.

Stay Hydrated

Dry eyes and dehydration go hand-in-hand with cannabis use. Drinking plenty of water before and after smoking can help minimize redness and dryness.

• Why It Works: Hydration helps reduce dryness in your eyes, which can exacerbate redness. Staying hydrated also benefits your overall well-being.

Use Sunglasses

If you’re outdoors, a stylish pair of sunglasses can easily hide red eyes. This option might not be suitable indoors, as wearing sunglasses inside can raise suspicion.

Reducing the Cannabis Smell

The distinct smell of cannabis can linger on your clothes, hair, and even your breath. Here’s how to keep it under control:

Freshen Up

• Body Spray and Perfume: A light spray of your favorite fragrance can do wonders. Don’t overdo it, though, as an overwhelming scent can be just as suspicious.
• Hair Care: Smoke clings to hair. If possible, give your hair a quick wash or use dry shampoo to freshen up. At the very least, run a scented hairbrush through your locks.

Change Your Clothes

The smell of smoke tends to cling to fabric. If you’re going somewhere where discretion is key, bring a change of clothes. If that’s not an option, use a fabric spray like Febreze to minimize odors.

Take Care of Your Breath

Cannabis can leave a strong scent in your mouth. Chewing gum, eating mints, or using mouthwash can help eliminate cannabis breath.

• Chewing Gum: Mint-flavored gum or candy is great for masking odors.
• Mouthwash: Swishing mouthwash can also leave you feeling refreshed and less suspicious.

Refresh Your Appearance

Cannabis can make your skin look dull or your face appear flushed. Here are some quick fixes:

Cold Water Splash

Splashing your face with cold water can reduce puffiness and make you look more awake. Cold water helps constrict blood vessels and can also calm down flushed skin.

Moisturize Your Skin

Dry skin is another common side effect of smoking cannabis. Applying a light moisturizer can help rejuvenate your complexion and make you look fresher.

Use Concealer

If you have noticeable dark circles or puffiness around your eyes, a bit of concealer can work wonders. Blend it well for a natural look.

Managing the Munchies

The munchies are a classic and often unavoidable side effect of cannabis. Here’s how to handle cravings without looking suspicious:

Eat Before You Smoke

Eating a balanced meal before consuming cannabis can reduce the intensity of the munchies. Foods rich in protein and healthy fats can keep you feeling full for longer.

• Healthy Pre-Smoking Snacks: Nuts, yogurt, or avocado toast can provide sustained energy.

Snack Strategically

If you do get the munchies, have healthy snacks on hand. Fruits, nuts, and veggies can curb your cravings without the guilt.

• Avoid Overeating: If you find yourself in a social setting, try to eat slowly and methodically to avoid drawing attention to your sudden appetite.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Sometimes, your body confuses thirst with hunger. Drinking a glass of water or herbal tea can help satiate cravings and keep you hydrated.

Keeping Your Speech Clear and Thoughts Sharp

Cannabis can make you feel foggy and slow down your thinking, which can be a dead giveaway. Here's how to sound and feel more composed:

Take Deep Breaths

Deep breathing can help you stay calm and collected. It’s also a great way to combat any feelings of anxiety or paranoia that might arise from consuming cannabis.

• Breathing Exercise: Inhale deeply for four seconds, hold for four seconds, and exhale for four seconds. Repeat this a few times to center yourself.

Speak Slowly and Deliberately

If you find your speech slurring or your thoughts racing, make a conscious effort to slow down. Pause between sentences to gather your thoughts.

• Practice Active Listening: This will give you time to think about what to say next and make the conversation flow more naturally.

Have a “Cover Story”

If someone asks why you’re acting differently, a simple excuse like, “I didn’t sleep well last night,” or “I’m just feeling a bit under the weather,” can work wonders.

Mastering Your Body Language

Your body language can often give away your high state. Here’s how to keep it in check:

Maintain Good Posture

Slouching can make you look more relaxed—or in this case, too relaxed. Sitting or standing up straight can make you appear more alert and engaged.

Keep Your Hands Busy

If you’re feeling fidgety, holding a drink or using your hands to gesture naturally can help. Avoid tapping your fingers or making repetitive movements, as that can draw attention.

Make Eye Contact

Avoiding eye contact can make you seem suspicious. Try to make natural, confident eye contact, but don’t overdo it.

Managing “Cottonmouth”

Dry mouth, or “cottonmouth,” is a common side effect of cannabis. Here’s how to deal with it discreetly:

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is the simplest solution. If you’re in a setting where water isn’t readily available, chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production and alleviate dryness.

Use Hydrating Lozenges

Sugar-free lozenges or candies can be lifesavers. Not only do they combat dry mouth, but they also leave your breath smelling fresh.

Keeping Your Eyes Looking Alive

If your eyes look droopy or tired, try these additional tricks:

Use an Eye Roller

A cooling eye roller can help reduce puffiness and make you look more awake. Products infused with caffeine are especially effective for tightening the skin around your eyes.

Blink More Frequently

Staring blankly or zoning out can be a clear indicator that you’re high. Make an effort to blink more often and stay engaged with your surroundings.

Practice Looking in a Mirror

Before stepping out, practice looking neutral in the mirror. It might sound silly, but it can be helpful to see what expressions you need to correct.

Staying Engaged and Focused

Zoning out or getting too wrapped up in your own thoughts can make you seem more high. Here are ways to keep your focus:

Keep a Water Bottle Handy

Sipping water not only helps with cottonmouth but also gives you something to do and a reason to pause and refocus.

Focus on One Thing at a Time

Multitasking can be difficult when you’re high. If you’re in a conversation, give it your full attention. If you’re in a social setting, try to engage with one person or activity at a time.

Ground Yourself

If you feel your mind drifting, focus on something physical. Feel the ground under your feet, hold something in your hands, or notice the sensation of your breath.

Tips for Avoiding Paranoia and Anxiety

Cannabis can sometimes trigger feelings of paranoia or social anxiety, especially in stressful situations. Here’s how to manage:

Deep Breathing and Meditation

Taking a moment to breathe deeply and even closing your eyes for a few seconds can help reset your mind and calm your nerves.

Remind Yourself It Will Pass

Cannabis-induced anxiety is usually temporary. Reminding yourself that the feeling will pass and focusing on something enjoyable or comforting can make a big difference.

Listen to Music

If you have headphones and are in a setting where it’s appropriate, listening to music can help soothe your mind and make you feel more grounded.

Conclusion

Being high in public or social situations doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of preparation and the right strategies, you can appear more composed and confident. From simple tricks like eye drops and mints to mental exercises like deep breathing, there are plenty of ways to keep your high under wraps. The key is to stay calm, composed, and remember that a bit of practice goes a long way.