Your guide to vaping

In recent years, vaping has begun to take over the world, and has now become a practical, effective, and more acceptable alternative to smoking. But what is it? Where did it come from? And how exactly does it work? Question no more, as The Vape Escape is here to help.

What is it?

Vaping is simply using an electronic cigarette (or e-cigarette/e-cig) to inhale and exhale water vapour made from an e-liquid. Vaping is a tobacco-free alternative to smoking, and you can even buy liquids that are nicotine free, in a variety of flavours, offering a great opportunity to kick the dangerous habit.

Where did it come from?

Don’t be fooled by its growing popularity, vaping has been around for many years, and can be linked as far back as around 1600AD (possibly even further), with the creation of the ‘Hookah’ a device developed to communally, or individually inhale shisha and other liquid based vapours. In the 1960s, Herbert A. Gilbert, a veteran of the Korean War, created his own version of the vapouriser, however it wouldn’t be until the 21st century that this technology would become more mainstream. Nowadays, vaping has become an entire subculture, with a growing number of products and accessories entering the market regularly. There is even a form of competition dedicated entirely to the skill of vaping.

How does it work?

Before you look to begin vaping, it’s important to know how it works, and the ingredients that are often included in the products that you buy. An e-cigarette includes five basic components to operate. 1. Mouthpiece – This piece does exactly what it says on the tin, acting as a funnel between your mouth and the atomiser, guiding the vapour as you inhale. 2. Atomiser – This section heats the e-liquid in through a heating coil that is powered by the battery, creating a tasty flavoured vapour. 3. Battery – We all know what a battery does, so we don’t need to explain this. What is good to know is that most e-cig batteries are rechargeable, making it easier and cheaper to power, and maintain, your device. 4. Tank – The e-liquid is stored in this section before it is vapourised. Some modern devices combine the atomiser and tank in a single component, known as the clearomiser. 5. E-liquid – This is the substance that becomes the vapour when heated. It’s also available in a wide range of flavours.

Know your ingredients An e-liquid is normally formed from a base liquid which is then combined with an artificial or natural flavouring to achieve an overall taste. The base liquids are known as Propylene Glycol (commonly used in food colouring and some medicines), Vegetable Glycol (a non-toxic, vegetable based liquid that can produce a thick vapour), or sometimes a combination of the two. The use of e-liquids can also help to keep track of the amount of nicotine that you inhale, making it an excellent solution to those who are looking to gradually quit smoking and move on to vaping. The level of nicotine is available in five different strength levels; 0mg – none, 6mg – extra light, 12mg – light, 18mg – regular, and 20mg – high. With so many flavours available, vaping can offer a completely different experience each time, from classic fruity flavours to quirky tastes like custard, milkshake, and many more. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even combine two different e-liquids to create an entirely new flavour combination. The Vape Escape is dedicated to providing the best and latest products to the vaping community. We pride ourselves on our expert levels of knowledge and ensuring that you are happy with the service we provide. For further information, and to view the products we offer, visit www.thevapeescape.co.uk today.