What is an E-Cigarette?

February 01, 2019

An electronic cigarette, often referred to as an ‘e-cigarette’, is a device which simulates a traditional cigarette as a means of delivering nicotine to the body and bloodstream.

Instead of heating tobacco to produce smoke, however, e-cigarettes use a substance known as e-liquid which is converted to an inhalable vapour when heated.

While the best method of preventing smoking-related health conditions remains not smoking or vaping any nicotine products, research has shown that e-cigarettes are less damaging to the lungs and overall health than traditional cigarettes, as they do not contain the harmful chemicals which are released when tobacco is burned and inhaled.

What is in E-liquid?

E-liquids are made up of two base substances: VG (Vegetable Glycerine and PG (Propylene Glycol). Both substances are considered safe and non-toxic, and are commonly used in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.

Nicotine and flavourings are then added to this base to create a satisfying and pleasant-tasting formulation which keeps your cravings at bay without exposing you to the toxic chemicals and additives found in tobacco.

When to use an E-cigarette

An e-cigarette can be used whenever you feel yourself craving nicotine. Your e-cigarette should be used as a tool to mimic your previous smoking pattern, acting as a replacement for any instance where you might normally smoke. For example, if you tend to smoke tobacco whilst at the pub or after a meal, you can keep your e-cigarette device nearby, ensuring it has a sufficient amount of battery charge to last while you’re out and about.

You should also be sure to travel with enough e-liquid, as running out could tempt you to purchase tobacco products in a bid to keep your cravings at bay.

E-cigarettes replicate the physical actions of smoking a cigarette: having an object in your hand, bringing an object your lips and inhaling it, receiving a familiar sensation in your throat and experiencing the physical effects of your nicotine cravings being appeased.

E-cigarettes are also much more cost-effective than cigarettes, with the average e-cigarette user spending approximately £190 every three months on e-liquid and equipment whilst an average cigarette smoker could spend around £400 on their habit every three months.

Classic Kits

E-cigarette devices are available in a variety of styles in order to accommodate different vaping styles and personal preferences. Classic kits / devices are generally low-wattage (such as the Vapouriz Fuse the Vapouriz V-Mini and the Innokin Endura T20) and are compatible with classic e-liquids which contain a higher level of PG than VG. PG provides the throat hit familiar to smokers.

Classic kits tend to come with all the components you need to get up and running and require very little assembly or prior knowledge of vaping. These kits tend to have a ‘pen’ style appearance and use a tank known as a clearomiser to contain the e-liquid before it is vapourised.

Sub Ohm Kits

Another popular style of e-cigarette known as a sub ohm device uses an internal coil with a resistance of less than one ohm. The high-power / high-wattage levels a sub ohm kit can offer combined with the high-VG content of sub ohm e-liquid produces a very thick, flavoursome vapour which is ideal for experimenting with different e-liquid flavours.

Most importantly, e-cigarettes are widely considered a viable alternative to cigarettes for adult smokers and can significantly aid your journey towards a smoke-free lifestyle.