Interested in vaping? Confused by all the myths and misinformation out there? This article will set the record straight, once and for all.
Separating Vape Myths From Facts
Are you a smoker or ex-smoker thinking about trying vaping as an alternative to cigarettes? Or are you already a vaper, but uncertain if the rumours and myths you hear are true?
Don't worry: this article will explore popular vaping myths and separate fact from fiction so that you can make informed decisions about whether vaping is right for you.
Myth: Vaping is just as harmful as smoking cigarettes
Fact: Vaping is significantly less harmful than cigarettes and other tobacco products
When you first start looking into vapes, you might frequently stumble across this vaping myth and get scared off. But don't worry, science is on vaping's side. Evidence reviewed by Public Health England indicates that e-cigarettes are actually 95% safer than tobacco cigarettes and the safety hazards surrounding them '...is likely to be extremely low, and certainly much lower than smoking.' This is because cigarettes contain at least 250 chemicals that are known to be toxic, whereas e-cigarettes and their e-liquid have a much shorter ingredient list, all of them being safe for vaping.
This doesn't mean that vaping is completely harmless. As vapes are a relatively new development, more research still needs to be done about their long term effects on health. But with the research that's available now, it's clear that vapes are far less harmful than smoking cigarettes.
Myth: Vaping is just as addictive as cigarettes
Fact: Vapes make it easier to combat nicotine addiction
Every smoker, and even non-smokers, know that what makes smoking addictive is the nicotine present in cigarettes. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance present in tobacco, which is why it can be really tricky for smokers to quit cigarettes and other tobacco products.
While many e-liquids created for vaping still contain nicotine, it's easier to reduce your nicotine intake using e-cigarettes and eventually cut nicotine out altogether. This is because you can buy e-juice with a range of nicotine strengths ranging from 20mg (a high nicotine ratio suitable only for people who are used to smoking more than a pack of cigarettes each day) to as little as 3mg or 0mg nicotine.
So, with e-cigarettes, you can gradually reduce the amount of nicotine you are vaping and barely even notice the difference – you still get to vape the same amount, but each puff contains less nicotine. This makes it far easier to reduce your nicotine intake than simply smoking fewer tobacco cigarettes.
Myth: Vapes cause 'popcorn lung'
Fact: E-liquids in the UK don't contain any chemicals that can cause popcorn lung
This is another common vaping myth that has actually been debunked for a while. This myth popped up because some of the flavourings used in e-liquid to provide that buttery taste contain a chemical called diacetyl. Diacetyl, at extremely high doses, can eventually lead to a lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans -- also known as popcorn lung.
While this may have been true in the early days of vaping, it's definitely fiction now. In the UK, diacetyl is currently banned as an ingredient in vaping e-liquid and disposable e-cigarettes. It's very unlikely these days that you'll find a bottle of vape juice that lists this as one of its ingredients, and if you do then it will be at very minimal levels. So the popcorn lung myth is officially debunked, and you can calmly use your vape knowing that each inhale won't be wrecking your lungs.
Myth: Vaping products are not regulated
Fact: All vaping products in the UK must be TPD compliant
This myth comes up a lot, especially when people talk about vaping amongst young people. It's a common misconception that vapes and e-liquids are not regulated and are therefore either very easy for young people to buy or contain harmful chemicals. However, this isn't true at all. In fact, all e-cigarettes and vaping products are strictly controlled under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD).
The TPD is a set of regulations that controls the manufacturing and sale of e-cigarettes and e-liquids in the EU and UK. Some of these rules include setting a maximum 10ml bottle capacity for e-liquids that contain nicotine, a 20% maximum nicotine strength on all vape juices and e-cigarettes, and that all products containing nicotine must clearly label that nicotine is an addictive substance. These guidelines have been put in place to ensure that vapers can enjoy their vape safely and responsibly.
Myth: Vaping can becoming a gateway to cigarette smoking
Fact: Vapes are an excellent smoking cessation aid
It's a common myth that when people start vaping, especially young people, it can lead to a smoking habit further down the line. But actually, it's the complete opposite that's true. E-cigarettes have become a popular way to help people quit smoking, and for good reason. Research has shown that using vapes as a cessation aid is twice as effective as other cessation aids available.
With e-cigarettes you can adjust how much nicotine is in your e-liquid, and while many ex-smokers typically start with a high nicotine strength they can slowly start to reduce it. Weaning yourself off of nicotine is much more effective than quitting cold turkey and can help you calm any withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Eventually be able to cut out nicotine completely!
Conclusion
With these myths debunked, you can now make informed decisions about whether or not vaping is right for you. While vaping isn't 100% harmless, like most things in life, it's far safer and better for your health than being a cigarette smoker. So, why not give vaping a go today?
If you're looking for your first starter kit or disposable vape, visit Legion of Vapers. As one of the UK's leading online vape stores, Legion of Vapers stocks a wide range of beginner-friendly vape products that can help you start your vaping journey.
