Vapes, or e-cigarettes, offer an affordable, healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes that are more discreet and less antisocial in a variety of flavors to suit different user’s tastes. According to one study by Tobacco Use Insights, “vaping alone presents less harm to blood pressure and heart rate regulation than the use of traditional combustible cigarettes.” 

However, vaping still poses health risks, especially when not done safely. In this article, we will look at the dangers of vaping and how to make it safer. 

Understanding How to Vape Safely

Vaping is an alternative form of nicotine that requires users to inhale and exhale vapor rather than smoke from traditional combustible cigarettes. Vaping devices heat liquid that contains nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients using a heating element to a specific temperature that produces vapor to inhale. The most common types of vapes are:

• E-cigarettes are battery-operated and often disposable, 
• Vape pens look like pens and feature replaceable tanks full of liquid
• Mods are larger modifiable vapes 

There are two main categories of vape: MTL and DTL.

• MTL stands for mouth-to-lung. These vapes are often fruity and disposable. Similar to an actual cigarette, vapers take a puff into the mouth first, hold it for a few seconds, and then take it into the lungs.
• DTL stands for direct-to-lung. Also known as “sub ohm” vaping, this style bypasses the mouth and goes straight to the lungs using a slow, deep breath. These vapes are often mods and not disposable. 

In addition to knowing what type of vape you have or are interested in buying, it’s essential to understand the differences in e-liquids and their ingredients. Vaping liquid varies wildly, but there are some things you should look out for before settling on a brand. 

When selecting an e-liquid, look out for:

• Vapers should choose high-quality e-liquid from a reputable brand that contains pharmaceutical-grade nicotine and food-grade flavorings. These ingredients are mixed with another liquid. MTL vapes most commonly contain propylene glycol, while DTL vapes more commonly include a thicker liquid called vegetable glycerin. 
• Additionally, select an e-liquid with an appropriate nicotine level to suit your needs. E-liquid is available in a variety of nicotine levels, including with no nicotine at all, for people who want to scratch the itch of smoking without the addictive chemical.  
• Meanwhile, vapers should avoid cheap products with low-quality ingredients, harsh flavors, inappropriate nicotine levels, and the wrong carrier fluid for their devices. 

Vaping Risks

Just like with any nicotine product, there are risks associated with vaping. The following conditions may occur from vaping:

• Respiratory issues such as “popcorn lung.” Initially, this condition was found in people working in factories that produced microwavable popcorn. The chemical diacetyl was used in these factories and is also an ingredient in some e-liquids. While this chemical is banned from many vapes, the vaping industry requires better regulations in vaping to prevent similar chemical compounds from being used in vapes, which is why vapers should only purchase high-quality and reliable brands. 
• Nicotine addictioncan damage brain development in young people. It is also addictive, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms in people giving up. 
• Cardiovascular issues like increased heart rate and blood pressure are associated with vaping. 
• Oral health can be significantly affected, including exacerbating gum disease and causing cavities.   

While there are issues with vaping, people who choose to vape rather than smoke are cutting down the amount of toxic and cancer-causing chemicals in the body, reducing tar exposure, and lowering the chance of respiratory issues.

However, vapers should understand that while you can cut down the possibility of ill effects dramatically by vaping safely, all vaping has health risks associated with it. 

How To Vape Safely

Vaping safely is adopting the best practices that minimize the risks associated with vaping. 

Choosing Quality Vapes

• Always buy from reputable brands with good reviews to minimize the risk of receiving a low-quality vape. 
• Only purchase e-liquids that list the ingredients so you can avoid dangerous chemicals like diacetyl (the cause of “popcorn lung”). Another way to guarantee a better-quality vape is to look for reputable brands that have been third-party tested, so you’re not just taking the company’s word for it. 
• Look for products with safety certifications. These certifications are not just labels; they guarantee a safe and chemical-free vape and provide peace of mind. 

Use Your Vape Correctly

• Before you use a vape, read the instructions carefully. Getting to know your vape should prevent improper use and overcharging, which could lead to overheating and shorten its lifespan.  
• If you don’t own a disposable vape, it’s essential to take care of it by keeping it clean to keep it working correctly for longer. Remove your vape piece by piece, gently clean the individual parts, allow them to dry properly, and then reassemble it correctly before use. 
• Don’t let the battery run flat, and avoid storing your vape in rooms with high temperatures.

Vape Mindfully

• When you own a vape, it’s tempting to keep puffing on it because it’s easier to access than a traditional cigarette and doesn’t leave a lingering smell in the same way. However, it’s important to practice self-control to avoid consuming too much nicotine too quickly. 
• If you have hit your vape too much, signs include headaches, nausea, stomach issues, and more. If you notice any of these symptoms, put it down and leave it for a while. 
• Just because vapes aren’t considered as antisocial as traditional combustible cigarettes, people who don’t vape probably won’t enjoy a cloud full of fruity vapor being blown in their direction. Read the room, and try to vape away from non-vapers when you can, which will also slow down the amount you use your vape. 

Stay Informed About Vaping

The world of vaping changes all the time, shifting towards healthier options with safer ingredients and low nicotine options. Always listen to other vapers when reading reviews of products and stay current on the latest research to avoid harmful chemicals found in some e-liquids and vape brands with other safety concerns. 

Conclusion

While vaping will always have safety concerns attached, there are ways to mitigate risks and vape more safely. Choose a vape from a reputable brand with good reviews to minimize the risk of receiving a low-quality vape and high-quality e-liquid with an appropriate nicotine level to suit your needs.

Once you’ve selected a suitable vape, try not to use it too much to avoid adverse effects. In addition to being healthier, it’ll taste and feel much nicer if you space it out. Stay informed on the latest vaping breakthroughs and products, so you consistently vape safely.