Vaping: 10 myths and facts

  • Myth: Vaping is as harmful as smoking

Fact: Numerous studies show that vaping is far less harmful than traditional smoking. 

According to Public Health England, e-cigarette vapor contains 95% fewer harmful substances than tobacco smoke. 

Dr. William Lowenstein, President of SOS Addictions, states, “By avoiding tobacco, you are no longer exposing yourself to its combustion, which represents the greatest risk. I’m not saying that you should start using a vape if you don’t smoke. On the other hand, there’s no doubt that it remains one of the best ways to quit smoking for good in the long term.” 

Since 2016 in France, the French National Authority for Health (HAS) has considered e-cigarettes “as an aid to help smokers stop or reduce their tobacco consumption” sometimes better than other nicotine substitutes.

  • Myth: All e-liquids contain harmful substances

Fact: Quality e-liquids manufactured by reputable companies use high-quality ingredients and adhere to strict safety standards. 

The basic ingredients in an e-liquid include:

  • Vegetable Glycerine (VG): A thick liquid that produces vapor, commonly found in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Propylene Glycol (PG): Carries the flavor and nicotine, commonly found in everyday foods like bread.
  • Flavors: Can be tailored to your preferences, offering options like tobacco, mint, or gourmet flavors. Pharmaceutical-grade quality is preferred.
  • Nicotine (Optional): While nicotine may be addictive, it is not inherently harmful to adults (excluding pregnant women). It is the toxins and carcinogens in cigarette smoke that pose the greatest risk, not the nicotine itself.
  • Myth: Nicotine salts are more dangerous than traditional nicotine

Fact: This statement is a common misunderstanding. 

In reality, nicotine salts are a milder, more easily inhaled form of nicotine compared to traditional nicotine used in e-liquids. Nicotine salts enable vapers to experience satisfaction faster and more akin to that of traditional cigarettes, aiding smokers in transitioning from smoking to vaping more effectively.

  • Myth: E-liquids are all made with the same proportions of ingredients

Fact: E-liquids can vary in their proportions of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, as well as in the concentration of nicotine. 

The ‘standard’ e-liquid is generally offered in 50/50 proportions, but you’ll find options with more VG to produce more vapor, or options with more PG to allow vaporizing at high nicotine levels without throat irritation.

  • Myth: Vaping is as bad for your teeth as smoking

Fact: Vaping is far less bad for teeth than smoking

Although vaping can potentially cause oral health problems such as dry mouth, it is generally considered to be less harmful to teeth and gums than traditional smoking due to the absence of combustion.

  • Myth: Organic e-liquids are always better for your health

Fact: While organic e-liquids may be crafted from natural ingredients, this does not necessarily mean they are safer or healthier than conventional e-liquids. 

Safety hinges on various factors, such as the quality of ingredients and manufacturing processes.

  • Myth: Vaping has no effect on sporting performance

Fact: Some athletes have reported improved endurance after switching from smoking to vaping. 

This transition can lead to benefits such as increased lung capacity, reduced blood pressure, and may help prevent weight gain.

  • Myth: Vaping is banned in all public spaces

Fact: Regulations on the use of vaping in public spaces vary from country to country and region to region. 

Some places allow vaping where smoking is banned, while others ban it completely. It is important to comply with local laws and establishment policies.

  • Myth: E-liquids have no expiry date

Fact: E-liquids have a limited shelf life and can lose flavor and effectiveness over time. 

We recommend checking the expiry date and consuming e-liquids within the time recommended by the manufacturer for the best experience. Depending on the manufacturer, the optimum shelf life of an e-liquid can vary from 2 to 4 years.

  • Myth: Electronic cigarettes can explode at any time

Fact: While incidents of electronic cigarette explosions are rare, they can happen due to misuse, inadequate maintenance, or the use of damaged batteries. 

Following the manufacturer’s instructions and using quality equipment can greatly reduce this risk.


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