How Long Does Nicotine Stay in Your System?

If you're wondering how long nicotine lingers in your system, you're not alone. Whether you're prepping for a medical exam, a new job, or just curious about how your body processes nicotine, the answer depends on several key factors—including your habits, metabolism, and the type of test used. if you are buying form your local vape shop often this maybe the time to kick the habit.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from nicotine’s half-life to detection windows for common drug tests. We’ll also give you a few smart tips if you're trying to test clean.

Why It Matters

Believe it or not, many employers and insurance providers still test for nicotine use. While some companies do it for health-related incentives, others include nicotine testing as part of routine drug screening.

So if you're scheduled for a test, it’s important to understand not just how long nicotine lasts—but more importantly, how long cotinine, its byproduct, stays detectable.

Cotinine vs. Nicotine: What's Being Tested?

Here's the twist: Nicotine isn't what labs are usually looking for. They're testing for cotinine, the main metabolite your body produces after processing nicotine. Cotinine is preferred because it lasts longer in the body and gives a more accurate window of nicotine use.

• Nicotine Half-Life: ~2 hours
• Cotinine Half-Life: ~15 to 20 hours
   (Source: Mayo Medical Laboratories)
  

That means Cotinine sticks around far longer—and that’s what test results are based on.

How Long Does Nicotine or Cotinine Stay in Your System?

Hair Testing

Detection Time: Up to 90 days (and in rare cases, longer)
Hair follicle tests are the most extended and detailed form of nicotine detection. They’re also the least commonly used due to cost and turnaround time. These are typically reserved for high-security roles or insurance cases.

Urine Testing

Detection Time:

• Occasional use: 3–7 days
• Daily use: 2–3 weeks
  

Urine testing is by far the most common method—and also the one most likely used by employers. If you're a regular vaper or smoker, cotinine can linger for a couple of weeks after your last use.

Blood Testing

Detection Time: Up to 10 days

Blood tests are the most accurate, but they’re also more invasive. They're often used to confirm negative results in saliva or urine tests and are popular in clinical research or insurance underwriting.

 Saliva Testing

Detection Time: Up to 4 days

Saliva tests are quick and non-invasive, but they detect cotinine for a much shorter window. If you’ve only recently quit, this is the test you’re most likely to pass first.

Factors That Affect Nicotine Retention

Your body isn’t a fixed machine—how long nicotine stays in your system depends on several variables:

• Frequency of use: More vaping or smoking = longer detox time
  
• Age: Older individuals process nicotine more slowly
  
• Sex: Women typically metabolize nicotine faster than men
  
• Diet: Foods like broccoli, cabbage, and oranges can boost metabolism
  
• Hydration & Activity Level: Water and exercise can aid elimination
  

(Source: Drugrehab.com)

How to Help Your Body Clear Nicotine

There’s no miracle product to flush nicotine instantly—despite what the internet might tell you. But here are some realistic steps you can take:

1. Stop using nicotine immediately
2. Stay hydrated – Water helps flush your system
3. Get moving – Light exercise boosts circulation and metabolism
4. Eat antioxidant-rich foods – Think fruits, veggies, and fiber
5. Be patient – Time is your best friend in detox

According to Vaping360.com, casual users may test clean after 5–7 days, but heavy users should allow at least 2 weeks or more.

Do 0mg Nicotine Vapes Show Up on a Nicotine Test?

No, 0mg nicotine vapes will not show up on a nicotine or cotinine test, because they contain no nicotine to begin with.

Most nicotine tests (urine, blood, saliva, or hair) check for cotinine, the primary byproduct your body creates when it breaks down nicotine. If you're using 0mg vape juice or No Nicotine Vapes, there’s no nicotine to metabolize, so your body won't produce cotinine—and therefore, the test will return a negative result.

 Important Notes:

• Be sure your vape is truly 0mg: Some poorly labeled or unregulated products may still contain trace amounts of nicotine.
  
• Lab-grade or trusted brands only: If you’re prepping for a test, only use verified 0mg e-liquids from reputable brands to be safe.
  
• Secondhand exposure won’t trigger a positive result either—it’s not enough nicotine to produce measurable cotinine levels.
  

Curious about Nicotine Free Vapes? Check out our Best Nicotine Free blog or all the Nicotine Free Vapes we sell from brands like Raz Vape and Geekbar. If you’re more interested in comparing nicotine vapes to cigarettes, don’t miss our guide: How Many Cigarettes Are in a 20mg Geek Bar?

Final Thoughts

Nicotine may leave your system quickly, but cotinine can hang around—especially if you're a frequent vaper or smoker. Depending on the type of test, it could remain detectable for a few days or up to three months.

If you're preparing for a screening, take into account your usage habits, body type, and the specific test being used. And most importantly, give your body the time it needs to reset.