Every cannabis consumer has found themselves at one time or another in a less-than-desirable situation when they’re high – and need to not look high.

Maybe your parents are coming around, or you have to pick up some previously-forgotten-but-now-essential-item from the grocery store.

If you’ve been smoking weed for a long time, chances are people can’t tell when you’ve had a smoke anyway. But if you’re relatively new to the scene, there are a few things you can do to keep your love of MJ on the DL. See below for tips on how to not look high.

When your mind is feeling euphoric and creative, and your limbs start to feel lighter than a feather, you know you’re high.

However, other people might also notice some telltale signs that make them wonder whether you’ve been indulging in weed.

We’re here to help you master the art of not looking high.

Here are some signs of highness to expect when consuming cannabis:

• The most common physically noticeable attribute is the infamous reddened eyes.

• Your muscle coordination might tip you off – perhaps your relaxed state will cause you to be a bit clumsy.

• You might need more time to process what’s being said or what’s going on – leading to a delayed reaction time.

• If you can’t stop picking at the bowl of chips, someone might wonder if you’ve got a case of the munchies.

• If you’re prone to anxiety and paranoia when smoking, it could be that someone notices you’re not entirely your sober self.

Navigating the aftermath of a cannabis high with finesse means mitigating the obvious signs—like addressing the infamous red eyes, eliminating that telltale skunky aroma, maintaining a calm demeanor, and embracing the fact that you’re likely more aware of your altered state than anyone else.

To seamlessly blend into your surroundings without giving away your high, it’s all about smart, subtle adjustments.

Here are some strategic tips to keep you looking composed and collected:

Clean Up Your Appearance

Freshen up to distract from any signs of highness. Splash some cold water on your face, use eye drops to combat red eyes, change into fresh clothes if necessary, and don’t forget to brush your teeth. Eliminating the smell of cannabis from your breath and refreshing your mouth can make a big difference. A clean, put-together appearance significantly alters how others perceive you, making it less likely they’ll notice you’re high.

Neutralize the Environment

If you’re at home, air out the room or light some incense. The smell of cannabis is a dead giveaway, so eliminating any lingering scents can help maintain the illusion of sobriety. Plus, a well-ventilated space can help you feel more alert

Stay Hydrated

Dry mouth is a common symptom of being high. Keep a bottle of water handy and sip regularly. Not only does it help with dry mouth, but staying hydrated also improves your overall appearance and wellbeing, making you look more awake and alert.

Nutritional Recovery

Indulging in a balanced meal can help counteract the munchies and provide the energy needed to combat the sluggishness associated with being high. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to nourish your body and sharpen your mind.

Engage in Motivation

If you’re feeling lethargic, engage in light exercise like a brisk walk. It can help shake off the grogginess and boost your endorphins, making you appear more energized and less like you’re under the influence.

Use Sunglasses Wisely

While sunglasses can hide red eyes, using them indoors or at night might raise more eyebrows than it hides. Stick to wearing them in appropriate settings, like on a sunny day, to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Conceal Your Cannabis

This one’s a no-brainer, but keep your cannabis stored away. Leaving open jars or remnants of your bud can create a faint weed smell you may not catch.

Maintain a Low Profile

Avoid drawing attention to yourself. Keep conversations light and your actions measured. The less you stand out, the less people may judge your behavior for signs of being high.

Master the Art of Relaxation

Learning to control your anxiety and paranoia through deep breathing or meditation can help you appear more composed and in control, reducing outward signs of nervousness or discomfort.

Sometimes, the key to not looking high is to manage your intake so that you never get too high in the first place.

Whether you’re new to cannabis or looking for ways to refine your consumption, here are two effective strategies:

Explore Microdosing

Microdosing is a consumption technique that focuses on taking small, controlled amounts of cannabis to achieve a mild, manageable high. This approach allows you to savor the subtler benefits of cannabis—like enhanced creativity and relaxation—without overwhelming your senses or your ability to function.

Start with a low dose and adjust based on your tolerance and the desired effects. Microdosing is especially beneficial for those seeking to integrate cannabis use into their daily routine without the intensity of a full high.

Incorporate CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis that can modulate the effects of THC, the main psychoactive component. Incorporating CBD into your cannabis regimen can help mitigate some of the less desirable effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia.

Opting for strains with a higher CBD-to-THC ratio or supplementing your THC intake with CBD products can create a more balanced, enjoyable experience. CBD’s calming properties can help smooth out the edges of your high, making it easier to manage and less noticeable to others.

Cannabis Topicals

For those looking to avoid the psychoactive effects entirely, cannabis topicals offer an intriguing alternative. These products, which include creams, balms, and lotions infused with cannabis, are applied directly to the skin.

They’re designed to relieve pain, inflammation, and soreness without entering the bloodstream in a way that leads to a high.