Frequently asked questions

Smelling salts are a controlled source of ammonium carbonate. When the tin is opened, ammonia (NH₃) is released: a sharp gas that irritates the nasal mucosa. This irritation triggers an alertness reflex. In powerlifting, bodybuilding, strongman and boxing, it is used as a short impulse before a maximal attempt.

For the moment right before a maximal attempt. Not a pre-workout, not for continuous use. No more than once per attempt, and only with full awareness of the stimulus it creates.

Open the tin, hold it 10 to 20 cm away from your nose, inhale once briefly and in a controlled way, then close the tin immediately. Do not hold it directly against your nose, eyes or mucous membranes, and do not inhale repeatedly in a row.

On a competition or training day, use it only for maximal attempts, not between every set and not throughout the whole session. Recommended: no more than 2 to 3 times per training session. Smelling salts are not a pre-workout and not for continuous use.

The acute sympathetic activation lasts 10 to 30 seconds. Adrenaline and noradrenaline rise, heart and breathing rates increase briefly, and alertness spikes. After that, the reflex is over.

The scale describes the concentration of the active ammonia component. 3/5 is made for beginners and medium attempts: clear, but not overwhelming. 5/5 is the maximum, a no-compromise hit for heavy singles and PR attempts. If you are inexperienced, start with 3/5.

Menthol crystals activate TRPM8 receptors in the airways, which normally respond to cold. You feel it as a sharp, cold edge in the nose and throat. The airways feel subjectively more open, the trigeminal stimulus spreads wider and lasts a touch longer. The kick gets cleaner and cooler.

Ammonium carbonate as the active component. Menthol editions also contain real menthol crystals. No stimulants, no caffeine, no pharmacologically active substance in the classic sense. The effect is a neural reflex, not a chemical boost.

Cool, dry and protected from light. Always keep the tin tightly closed, otherwise the ammonia evaporates and the smelling salts lose strength. Do not store it in your gym bag next to water bottles or sweaty clothes.

When used correctly (short distance, brief inhalation, not directly against the nose), Skull Crush is safe. Incorrect use can irritate mucous membranes. Do not use for extended periods and do not hold it directly near eyes, mouth or open wounds.

For asthma, COPD or known ammonia sensitivity, we advise against use. A sharp stimulus can trigger bronchospasm. If in doubt, speak with your treating physician.

No. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, we do not recommend use. If in doubt: do not use it.

We recommend Skull Crush only for adults aged 18 and over.

Within Germany, typically 2 to 4 business days after dispatch. Across the EU, 4 to 8 business days. Exact times are shown at checkout.

For hygiene reasons, we do not accept returns of opened tins. Unopened goods can be returned under the statutory right of withdrawal (14 days). For apparel, the statutory right of withdrawal applies without restriction.