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Vape juice, or e-liquid, is the fluid in electronic cigarettes that creates aromatic vapor. The main ingredients in vape juice include propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), nicotine, and flavorings. Vape juice does not contain tar, nicotine, or many of the harmful chemicals and combustion byproducts found in traditional cigarettes. The ingredients come in various ratios and strengths to produce a spectrum of flavors and effects.
Propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, nicotine, and flavorings in e-liquids create diverse vapor densities, smoothness, flavors, and strengths depending on their ratios and concentrations.
Propylene glycol is one of the core ingredients in vape juice. The base liquid compound evenly distributes nicotine and flavorings throughout the mixture. It is a colorless, odorless, slightly sweet-tasting compound derived from propylene oxide, a petroleum byproduct.
The FDA has classified PG as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for use in food and drugs, and it's widely found in cosmetics, medications, and food additives. However, heating VG in e-cigarettes can produce harmful compounds like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde.
Some studies have raised concerns about potential respiratory irritation, damage, and allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive airways or pre-existing respiratory conditions. The long-term health effects of inhaling PG in e-liquids are still under investigation.
Vegetable glycerin (VG) is another core ingredient in vape juice. It is a clear, odorless, sweet-tasting liquid similar to propylene glycol. However, it is derived from plant oils such as soy, palm, or coconut and has distinct properties in e-cigarettes.
The FDA also classifies VG as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for food, drugs, and cosmetics use. It is widely used in skincare products, pharmaceuticals, and food additives.
However, heating VG in e-cigarettes can produce harmful compounds that cause inflammation, irritation, and potential damage, just like PG. People with lung sensitivities are at increased risk.
Nicotine is an optional ingredient in vape juice that delivers stimulating and mood-boosting effects. It is a naturally occurring compound found in tobacco plants and is highly addictive.
If you’re transitioning away from smoking cigarettes, nicotine in vape juice can provide a satisfying throat hit that curbs your cravings. You can also customize e-liquid nicotine levels, gradually reducing intake if the goal is to quit nicotine altogether.
Nicotine in vape juice is also popular for its potential nootropic properties.
However, nicotine's addictive effects pose a significant drawback. While potentially safer than cigarettes, vaping can perpetuate nicotine dependence. It also harms the developing brain, particularly in youth and young adults, leading to cognitive and behavioral impairments. During pregnancy, nicotine exposure can result in low birth weights, preterm delivery, stillbirth, and lasting consequences for the newborn’s developing brain and lung function.
Flavorings in vape juices are chemical compounds that add diverse and enjoyable tastes to e-cigarettes. They come in thousands of varieties, designed to mimic fruits, desserts, and even tobacco. Additionally, flavorings help mask the harshness of nicotine, providing a smoother and more palatable experience.
Unfortunately, flavorings can also pose health risks. A Yale University study found that:
Other studies have found:
Many e-liquid flavorings have yet to be thoroughly tested for inhalation safety.
So, what is in vape juice besides the main ingredients? E-liquids can contain additional ingredients like water, sweeteners, flavor enhancers, coloring agents, solvents, and preservatives.
Velvet Cloud ensures its vape juice ingredients are free from artificial sweeteners, food coloring, GMOs, preservatives, diacetyl, gluten, and animal byproducts. Additionally, they do not contain common allergens like dairy, gluten, or animal byproducts.
Vape juices contain vastly different ratios of their primary ingredients, which can significantly impact the formula and the experience. For example, the PG to VG ratio affects the throat hit, flavor intensity, and vapor production. Nicotine variations affect the strength and nootropic effects.
The primary vape juice ingredients include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, nicotine, flavorings, and additional additives. PG provides a strong throat hit and better flavor intensity, while VG offers smoother vapor and more giant clouds. Nicotine delivers stimulating and mood-boosting effects, while flavoring adds diverse tastes. Additional ingredients such as sweeteners, solvents, and preservatives may also be present. All components can enhance the vaping experience but can also cause adverse health effects. Consumers should seek vape juice products that prioritize high-quality ingredients.
Vape juice, including Velvet Cloud, typically does not contain sugar or artificial sweeteners. However, some vape juices use sucralose or ethyl maltol to achieve sweet flavors without the risk of burning and producing harmful byproducts associated with sugar.
Velvet Cloud does not use added artificial sweeteners in its vape juice formulas.
Some vape juices contain diacetyl, a chemical used to create buttery flavors. However, due to health concerns, mainly its association with a lung condition known as "Popcorn Lung," many manufacturers have removed diacetyl from their products or prominently labeled its presence.
The amount of nicotine in vape juice can vary widely, ranging from 0 mg/mL for nicotine-free options to as high as 50 mg/mL in some nicotine salt formulations. Velvet Cloud’s vapes contain nicotine levels of 0, 3, 6, and 12 mg/ml.
Natural flavorings are not necessarily safer than artificial ones in vape juice. Both types of flavorings can produce harmful chemicals when heated and inhaled. A flavoring's safety depends on its chemical composition and how it reacts when aerosolized. Consumers should avoid dangerous flavorings like diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione.
Yes, the ingredients in vape juice can expire. Most e-liquids have a shelf life of about one to two years from manufacture. Environmental factors such as exposure to light, heat, and air can accelerate the degradation process, affecting the flavor and nicotine potency. Always check the expiration date and store vape juice in a cool, dark place to maximize its lifespan.
Potential side effects of vaping include dry mouth, sore throat, coughing, and headaches. Some people experience allergic reactions or respiratory issues, particularly if they have sensitivities to PG or certain flavorings. Long-term health effects are still being studied, but researchers are concerned about respiratory and cardiovascular risks.
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