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Vaping is a popular alternative to traditional smoking, but it poses risks for brain development and can cause addiction. It also contains nicotine, which can affect learning and concentration. It also contains chemicals such as acrolein, diacetyl and formaldehyde, which can lead to a lung condition known as popcorn lung.
ENDS
ENDS, which are also known as electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes, vapes, and mods), use a liquid to vaporise nicotine and other ingredients to produce an aerosol that is inhaled. They are small and portable, often resembling pens or USB flash drives. They can be rechargeable or disposable, and some are restricted by federal and local regulations.
Previous studies have shown that ENDS are associated with reduced smoking prevalence and increased likelihood of quitting cigarettes among youths. However, a lack of research on long-term health effects is an ongoing concern. Inhalation of flavour additives in ENDS aerosols may induce adverse health effects.
ENDS product characteristics and their flavourings have been found to influence cellular toxicity in cells directly exposed to the aerosols. In this study, exposure to ENDS aerosol decreased metabolic activity and cell viability compared with air control. Flavours significantly influenced toxicity, with strawberry-flavoured products being the most cytotoxic. ENDS users can minimise the risk of these chemicals by choosing lower toxicity flavours and operating their devices at lower output voltages.
Pod systems
Pod systems are ideal for new vapers who want a simple and convenient experience. They are easy to use and require little maintenance. They are also a great option for relevant vapes who don’t like the hassle of maintaining a tank and coil. They are available in both refillable and pre-filled models. Refillable models are more expensive but offer a much wider range of flavors.
Unlike box mods, pod systems produce smaller clouds and are more discreet. They can be used in public without attracting attention, making them perfect for smokers who want to make the switch.
Pod devices are typically draw-activated, meaning that you can simply inhale to activate the device. This is particularly useful for beginners, but experienced vapers can use a button to activate the device. They also have a lower temperature range, which makes them suitable for e-liquids with nic salts. This allows them to deliver a more satisfying nicotine hit. Pods are usually leak-proof, which is a welcome feature for smokers who have been worried about the risk of vaping.
Mouth-to-lung vape tanks
Mouth-to-lung vape tanks allow the vapor to be drawn in through the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs, similar to how smoking a cigarette works. This type of tank is usually smaller and more discreet.
These tanks can also be used with a wide range of e-liquids, including those with high VG ratios that are typically more flavourful than lower VG vape liquids. Adjusting the wattage/temperature, nicotine concentration, PG/VG ratio, and airflow can affect the throat hit and flavour intensity of the liquid.
The wide opening on the drip tip on a mouth-to-lung tank allows for a smooth and steady inhale into the lungs. It is a great option for those new to vaping, as it provides a familiar experience that closely simulates the act of smoking. MTL devices are typically low-powered and prioritise usability over customisation, so they are ready to use straight out of the box. They work with coils that have a higher resistance than those designed for DL hardware.
E-liquids
The e-liquids used in vaping are usually made of four different ingredients: vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, flavourings and nicotine. VG and PG function as carriers, binding with the other ingredients to create a vapor that can be inhaled. The ratio of PG to VG determines the throat hit and cloud amounts, while the flavourings are a matter of personal preference. The last ingredient, the nicotine, is available in various strengths.
E-liquids are not suitable for young children, and may contain harmful chemicals such as acrolein, diacetyl and formaldehyde (linked to a lung condition called popcorn lung). In addition, e-cigarettes emit particulate matter that can damage the respiratory system of smokers who smoke them in close quarters. This could be especially dangerous for people who share their homes or workplaces with regular smokers. As a result, it is important to store all e-liquids in safe, child resistant packaging.
