Understanding the PG/VG Ratio and Nicotine Content of E-Liquids

When the time comes to purchase vape juice, consumers find they have countless options. Their favorite vape store carries a limited selection because of price constraints, so the consumers search the internet and see what they can find. When doing so, they discover an array of products, ranging from single flavor offerings to blends that combine some of their favorite things. However, they look at the descriptions of these products and wonder what it means when the providers talk about the PG/VG content and the nicotine level. What do men and women need to know about these items when making a purchase?

PG/VG Ratio

PG refers to propylene glycol, while VG refers to vegetable glycerin, and vape juice contains both ingredients. These odorless and colorless liquids form the base for almost every vape juice on the market today. While they serve the same purpose, differences exist, and you can learn more over at IndeJuice.

As a result of these differences, one of the first things vapers want more information on when comparing e-liquids would be the PG/VG ratio. What do these numbers mean, and why are they important?

Experienced vapers have a preference with their PG/VG ratio, although this depends in part on the device they use. Nevertheless, many vapers choose a 50/50 blend or one that includes equal amounts of the two substances.

Propylene Glycol

A petroleum by-product found in many items sold today, propylene glycol appears in cosmetics, lotion, shampoo, baby wipes, medications, and more. Research shows the substance remains safe for human consumption, both in oral and topical forms. Some men and women avoid using products containing propylene glycol because they worry it is toxic as it comes from petroleum, but studies don’t back up these claims. Nevertheless, PG remains toxic to cats, and owners need to ensure their companions don’t accidentally ingest any vape juice.

Propylene glycol don’t leave a sticky residue on vape devices, as it is a thin substance. Furthermore, male and female vapers prefer it over vegetable glycerin because it provides a stronger throat high as more nicotine makes it through the substance. The flavor is stronger and more intense as well. However, vape juices with higher propylene glycol ratios produce a smaller vapor cloud, which concerns some individuals. Additionally, e-liquids with a higher PG content get a burned flavor if vaporized at high heat levels.

Men and women must take care when trying vape juices that contain propylene glycol, as some individuals find they are allergic to this substance. Even long-time users may develop a sensitivity to PG, so pay attention when vaping. Dry mouth, breathing problems, and allergies suggest a person may develop a sensitivity to propylene glycol. However, any person who isn’t sensitive to PG should try a vape juice with a higher PG content. The only exception to this is those individuals making use of sub-ohm vape devices, as they aren’t suitable for use with high PG content vape juices.

Vegetable Glycerin

Many consumer products sold today contain vegetable glycerin, including soap, foods, lotion, deodorant, mousse, cosmetics, and toothpaste. This safe and benign substance comes from vegetable oil and remains highly resistant to heat. Sub-ohm vape mods work with high VG e-liquids and are preferred by those who have been vaping for a while. These devices provide greater output leading to more flavor or vapor. Male and female vapers looking to produce large, fluffy vapor clouds use a sub ohm device combined with high VG vape juice to achieve this goal.

As with propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin causes allergic reactions in certain individuals. Throat tingling serves as a sign of an allergy, so pay attention if anything appears off when using the vape juice. This helps to narrow the cause of the symptoms.

VG leads to gunky residue on vape devices, as it is very thick. However, users love the sweet taste and clean their device more frequently to ensure it continues functioning. Keep this in mind when choosing a vape juice. If the need for frequent cleaning will become a problem, it’s best to go with a juice that comes with a lower VG content.

Nicotine Content

In addition to examining a vape juice’s PG/VG ratio, consumers must look at the nicotine content of the e-liquid. These products come in many nicotine strengths, and most manufacturers now offer the same product with different strengths to ensure consumers find the one they prefer. Each bottle of vape juice clearly displays the nicotine level.

For those looking to wean off of cigarettes or those who want to end their nicotine addiction while continuing to vape, doing so takes little effort. Purchase vape juice at the desired nicotine level. When that bottle runs out, move down in terms of the nicotine content. How can this be accomplished?

Vape juice comes in a variety of nicotine levels. High nicotine products come in 18mg or 24mg/mL, although certain brands do offer higher nicotine levels. Medium nicotine vape juice comes with a nicotine content of 12 mg/mL, while low nicotine products are those with a 3 mg/mL or 6 mg/mL nicotine level. Nicotine-free products contain 0 mg/mL nicotine.

By starting with a medium or high nicotine product, smokers find they can move their way down through bottles with lower nicotine levels to wean from the nicotine without suffering withdrawal symptoms or keeping them to a minimum. This helps those who have tried to quit in the past only to find the withdrawal symptoms sent them back to smoking once again. Additionally, vaping helps those who wish to quit but worry about gaining weight. Vaping helps to keep weight gain down while still allowing the user to wean off of the nicotine.

Some users prefer to buy their desired flavor or blend and add their own nicotine. This option remains available. Be sure to pick a nicotine-free vape juice if you wish to try this. You may find you like having this layer of control over your vape juice. However, this remains up to the user, as manufacturers offer an array of options to meet the needs of all who choose to use their products.