The Ultimate Beginners Guide to E-Liquids What to Know Before You Start Vaping

Posted on October 31, 2024

Are you curious about vaping, or do you have a vape kit and know little to nothing about e-liquid? No worries though, everyone has to start somewhere and you are in luck as this beginner guide to e-liquids is all about. We're going from A to Z from prosaic e-liquids to selecting the right nicotine level and discerning why the VG/PG ratio matters. After this, you will be able to pick an e-liquid with confidence. Let’s dive in

What Exactly Is E-Liquid?

Vape juice or e-liquid is the fluid substance that is inserted into a vape when using one, that heats up to form a vapour. That vapour is what is inhaled and exhaled. It is contained in a bottle, or as a reusable prefilled pod or cartridge and comes in varying flavours, nicotine levels and thicknesses.
Here's what goes into your typical e-liquid:

Propylene Glycol (PG) – PG is a safe, translucent liquid without any odour, used to give the user a sensation similar to smoking a cigarette.
Vegetable Glycerin (VG) – A thicker, much sweeter compound primarily used for enhancing vapour production.
Nicotine – Optional and available in a range of strengths, from zero to high.
Flavoring – Adds taste; options range from fruity to dessert-inspired flavours.

Now that you know what's inside, let’s break down what each part does for your vaping experience.

Understanding Nicotine Strengths:

For smokers the highest concentration of nicotine and tens may choose
e-liquid is likely to be one of the most important factors in making up. Low nicotine can leave you feeling unsatisfied, Where it gets too high to manage of All — a little pinch much. The nicotine strength is listed as milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml) or in percentage form. The following:

0 mg/ml – No nicotine at all; ideal for flavour lovers or those who've weaned off nicotine.
3 mg/ml – Low nicotine, often used by those who are casual smokers.
6 mg/ml – Good for light to moderate smokers.
12 mg/ml – Suitable for moderate to heavier smokers.
18 mg/ml or more – Typically for heavy smokers who are new to vaping.

For someone starting out, it is always advisable to begin with a medium strength, for instance, 6 mg/ml or 12 mg/ml and change it later as the user gets used.

Choosing a Flavor:

E-liquids are available in a variety of flavours from tobacco to fruit, dessert and even mint among others. The flavour definition is described as follows:

Tobacco – For those who want a classic, cigarette-like taste.
Fruits – A popular choice, ranging from apples to exotic fruit mixes.
Desserts and Sweets – Perfect if you’re into sweet flavours like custards and candies.
Menthol and Mint – Refreshing and perfect for a cool hit.
Drinks – From coffee to cola and even cocktails.

Start with flavours that sound good to you. Many people experiment with a few before finding their go-to flavours.

Freebase Nicotine vs. Nic Salts:

However, we still have freebase nicotine and the newer option, nicotine salts. The main difference is in the speed and strength of the nicotine hit you experience.

Freebase Nicotine – The original form, providing a strong throat hit. It works well with low-powered devices and supports most e-liquids.
Nic Salts (Nicotine Salts) – Smoother and with a higher nicotine concentration than freebase, offering a gentler experience without harshness. Ideal for pod or low-wattage devices.

What Are Shortfills and Nic Shots?

One thing you may not particularly love about 0mg e-liquids is the need to check out terms like shortfill and nic shot. Here’s the rundown:

Shortfills – Larger bottles of e-liquid, usually nicotine-free, with extra space in the bottle for adding a nic shot.
Nic Shots – Small, high-nicotine bottles that you can mix with shortfalls to create your preferred nicotine level.

This setup is ideal for products sold in areas with nicotine limits, as it allows users to add their own desired amount of nicotine.

Storing Your E-Liquids:

Properly storing your e-liquids is essential. Here are a few tips:

Dark, Cool Place – Light and heat can break down the quality of your e-liquid.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures – Both freezing and high heat can negatively affect the ingredients.
Seal Properly – Air exposure can impact flavour quality over time.

If stored correctly, e-liquids can last up to 2 years, though they tend to taste better when fresher.

Wrapping It Up:

So much goes into e-liquids, like choosing the right nicotine strength and playing with various VG/PG levels and flavours. These things could be a little bit of trial and error when you start, but that is half the fun. Whether you are looking to kick the habit or if grape it is so tasty out of an e-liquid bottle, there is something for everyone.
Choose a few flavours, try some nicotine levels and enjoy the ride!