Abstract: A cigarette holder has internal valving means for providing with each inhalation by the smoker an initial supply of substantially smoke-free air, followed by a vacuum actuated changeover to supply smoke directly from the cigarette without dilution. The initial precursor of substantially smoke-free air has a minimizing effect on the irritating properties of the inhaled cigarette smoke. An alternative embodiment incorporates the valving means directly into the end of the cigarette during manufacture.