The Most Comprehensive E-Liquid Guide: Everything You Need to Know

E-liquids are an essential component of vaping. They are the liquids that are heated up to create the vapour that is inhaled when vaping. E-liquids come in a variety of flavours and nicotine strengths, making them a popular alternative to smoking.

Understanding e-liquids is crucial for anyone new to vaping. E-liquids are made up of a few key ingredients, including vegetable glycerine (VG), propylene glycol (PG), and flavourings. The ratio of VG to PG can vary depending on the e-liquid, with some having a higher VG content for thicker clouds of vapour, while others have a higher PG content for a stronger throat hit.

Nicotine is also present in many e-liquids, although some are nicotine-free. The amount of nicotine in an e-liquid can vary, with different strengths available to suit different preferences. It is important to understand the effects of nicotine on the body and to choose an appropriate strength when starting out with vaping.

Key Takeaways

• E-liquids are the liquids that are heated up to create the vapour that is inhaled when vaping.
• E-liquids are made up of VG, PG, flavourings and nicotine.
• Different e-liquids have different VG/PG ratios and nicotine strengths, making it important to choose one that suits your preferences.

Understanding E-Liquids

E-liquids are the essential component of vaping, providing the flavour and nicotine hit that vapers crave. E-liquids are made up of a few key ingredients, including propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and nicotine (if desired). The ratio of PG and VG can vary depending on the e-liquid, with some being 50/50, while others have a higher VG content for thicker clouds.

One of the most popular types of e-liquids is shortfill e-liquid, which comes in larger bottles (usually 50ml or 100ml) and has room for the addition of nicotine shots to create a desired nicotine strength. This is a cost-effective solution for vapers who want to purchase larger quantities of e-liquid at once.

Another common type of e-liquid is 10ml e-liquid, which is pre-mixed and comes in a variety of flavours and nicotine strengths. It is a convenient option for vapers who don’t want to bother with adding nicotine shots to their e-liquid.

When it comes to e-liquid flavours, the possibilities are endless. From fruity to dessert-inspired flavours, there is something for everyone. It’s important to note that e-liquid flavours can be subjective, and what one person loves, another may not.

It’s also important to pay attention to the nicotine strength of e-liquids. Nicotine levels in the UK can vary from 0mg to 20mg, depending on the e-liquid. It’s crucial to choose an e-liquid with a nicotine strength that is suitable for your needs and preferences.

Overall, understanding e-liquids is essential for any vaper. By knowing the ingredients, types, and flavours of e-liquids, vapers can make informed decisions and have a satisfying vaping experience.

Ingredients of E-Liquids

E-Liquid, also known as vape juice, is made up of a few basic ingredients. These ingredients include Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), and flavourings. Some e-liquids may also contain nicotine.

Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin

Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) are the two main components of e-liquids. They are both used as diluents to help create the vapour that is inhaled when vaping.

PG is a thin, odourless liquid that is used to create a thinner consistency in e-liquids. It is also used as a flavour carrier and can produce a stronger throat hit. VG, on the other hand, is a thicker, viscous liquid that is used to create a thicker consistency in e-liquids. It is also known for producing denser clouds of vapour and a smoother throat hit.

The ratio of PG to VG in an e-liquid can affect its viscosity, or thickness. A higher PG ratio will result in a thinner consistency, while a higher VG ratio will result in a thicker consistency. Some e-liquids may also contain a thickener or thinner to adjust the viscosity to the desired level.

Flavourings in E-Liquids

Flavourings are added to e-liquids to give them their unique taste. There are a wide variety of flavourings available, ranging from fruity to dessert flavours. Some popular flavours include strawberry, mango, and other fruit flavours, as well as dessert flavours like cake, custard, and ice cream.

Flavourings can be natural or artificial, and it is important to note that not all artificial flavourings are bad. Many artificial flavourings are made from the same compounds found in natural flavours, and are safe for consumption. It is always important to ensure that the flavourings used in e-liquids are food-grade and safe for consumption.

In conclusion, the ingredients in e-liquids are simple but important. The ratio of PG to VG and the type of flavourings used can greatly affect the vaping experience. It is important to choose e-liquids with high-quality ingredients to ensure a safe and enjoyable vaping experience.

Nicotine in E-Liquids

Nicotine is a naturally occurring chemical found in tobacco plants. It is the addictive substance that keeps smokers coming back for more. In e-liquids, nicotine is added to provide the same satisfaction to vapers. The amount of nicotine in e-liquids can vary, and it is important to understand the strengths available.

Understanding Nicotine Strengths

Nicotine strength is the amount of nicotine present in e-liquid. It is usually measured in milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml). The most common nicotine strengths are 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, 18mg and 20mg. While in some countries you may find nicotine strengths above 20mg, it is important to note that in the UK, 20mg or 2% nicotine is the legal limit.

The strength of nicotine on the bottle is how much nicotine you get per 1ml of juice. For example, a 3mg e-liquid contains 3mg of nicotine per 1ml of juice. It is important to note that higher nicotine strengths do not necessarily mean a better vaping experience. It is recommended that new vapers start with a lower nicotine strength and gradually increase as needed.

Nicotine Salts

Nicotine salts are a type of nicotine that is found in tobacco leaves. They are a more stable form of nicotine and are less harsh on the throat than freebase nicotine. Nicotine salts are often used in higher nicotine strengths, such as 10mg or 20mg, and are commonly used in pod systems.

Nicotine salts are not suitable for all vapers, as they can be too strong for some. Some vapers also prefer a harsher throat hit similar to cigarettes, rather than the smooth throat hit from Nic Salts. It is important to choose the right nicotine strength for your needs and to always use e-liquids that are appropriate for your device.

To summarise, understanding nicotine strengths and the difference between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts is important when choosing the right e-liquid for your needs. It is recommended that new vapers start with a lower nicotine strength and gradually increase as needed. Nicotine salts are a good option for those who prefer a stronger nicotine hit, but they are not suitable for all vapers.

Vaping and E-Liquids

Vaping is the act of inhaling vapours produced by an e-cigarette or vape device. E-liquids are the substance that is heated up to produce the vapour. E-liquids are made up of VG (vegetable glycerine), PG (propylene glycol), and flavourings. Some e-liquids may also contain nicotine.

E-Liquids for Different Vape Kits

Different vape kits require different types of e-liquids. For example, high VG e-liquids (60VG+) are better suited for sub-ohm vape kits, which require a lower resistance coil. On the other hand, MTL (mouth-to-lung) vape kits are better suited for e-liquids with higher PG content. When choosing an e-liquid, it is important to consider the vape kit being used and the resistance of the coil.

Vapour Production & E-Liquids

The amount of vapour produced by an e-cigarette or vape device depends on the e-liquid used. Sub-ohm vaping, which uses a low resistance coil and high VG e-liquids, produces larger clouds of vapour. MTL vaping, which uses a higher resistance coil and higher PG e-liquids, produces less vapour.

It is important to note that the amount of vapour produced by an e-cigarette or vape device does not necessarily correlate with the amount of nicotine being consumed. E-liquids with higher nicotine content may produce less vapour but still deliver a satisfying nicotine hit.

In conclusion, when choosing an e-liquid, it is important to consider the vape kit being used, the resistance of the coil, and the desired amount of vapour production. By choosing the right e-liquid, vapers can enjoy a satisfying and enjoyable vaping experience.

Shortfill E-Liquids

Shortfill e-liquids, also known as Shake & Vape, are a popular option for vapers who want to enjoy their favourite e-liquids without the hassle of constantly refilling their tanks. These e-liquids come in larger bottles of 50ml or 100ml, with space left at the top for the addition of nicotine booster shots.

The term ‘shortfill’ refers to the fact that the bottles are not filled to the top, leaving room for the addition of nicotine. For example, a 50ml shortfill e-liquid will come in a 60ml bottle containing 50ml of e-liquid, with 10ml of space left for the addition of a nicotine booster shot.

Shortfill e-liquids are a cost-effective way to enjoy vaping, as they allow vapers to buy larger quantities of e-liquid at a lower cost per millilitre. They also give vapers more control over the nicotine strength of their e-liquid, as they can add as much or as little nicotine as they like.

When using shortfill e-liquids, it is important to ensure that the nicotine booster shots are compatible with the e-liquid. Some e-liquids may require a specific type of nicotine shot, so it’s important to check the label before adding the shot.

Overall, shortfill e-liquids are a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy vaping. They offer vapers more control over the nicotine strength of their e-liquids, and allow them to buy larger quantities at a lower cost per millilitre.

Regulations and Safety of E-Liquids

TPD Regulations

In the UK, all e-liquids must comply with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) regulations. The TPD sets out strict guidelines for the production, packaging, and sale of e-liquids. These regulations aim to ensure that e-liquids are safe for use and do not pose a risk to public health.

Under the TPD, e-liquids must not contain more than 20mg (2%) of nicotine. All e-cigarettes and e-liquids must be registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) before they can be sold. E-cigarettes (including mods, pods, and disposables) must carry health warnings on the packaging. Restrictions on certain ingredients in e-liquid, including vitamins, caffeine, taurine, and others, are also in place.

Safety and Health Concerns

E-liquids contain a combination of ingredients, including propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, nicotine, and flavourings. While these ingredients are generally considered safe, there are still some safety and health concerns associated with e-liquids.

One concern is the risk of “popcorn lung,” a condition caused by inhaling diacetyl, a flavouring ingredient found in some e-liquids. However, diacetyl is now banned in e-liquids sold in the UK.

Another concern is the potential for e-liquids to be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin. It is important to keep e-liquids out of reach of children and pets and to avoid skin contact with e-liquid.

Shelf Life and Expiry

E-liquids have a shelf life and expiry date, and it is important to check these before using an e-liquid. E-liquids that have passed their expiry date or have been stored improperly may not be safe to use.

E-liquid brands should include the expiry date on the packaging, and it is important to store e-liquids in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is also important to avoid exposing e-liquids to extreme temperatures, as this can affect the flavour and quality of the e-liquid.

In summary, e-liquids are subject to strict regulations in the UK to ensure their safety and quality. It is important to be aware of the TPD regulations, safety and health concerns, and shelf life and expiry dates when using e-liquids. By following these guidelines, e-cigarette users can enjoy a safe and satisfying vaping experience.

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