Introduction
The world of vaping has seen an explosion in popularity over recent years, with millions of individuals turning to e-cigarettes as an alternative to traditional tobacco products. However, amidst this boom, there has been a troubling proliferation of illegal vapes in the market. It is essential for consumers to be aware of the legal requirements for vape packaging and how to differentiate between legal and illegal vaping products. Unfortunately, there appears to be there is an obvious education gap and unawares in the general public regarding what constitutes as a legal vape and an illegal vape and the prevalence of the pandemic. This is fuelled by the brazen disregard of trading standards rules and regulations, with many trusted traders having a wide range of illegal vapes on display for customers to purchase. Therefore, it is important to us at VapeHQ to empower people with knowledge and delve into the specifics of legal vapes versus illegal vapes, shedding light on the risks associated with purchasing and using illicit vaping products.
Legal Vapes: Meeting Regulatory Requirements
Legal vapes, as defined by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in Great Britain and Northern Ireland, adhere to a set of stringent regulations designed to ensure consumer safety and product quality. Before legal e-cigarettes and e-liquids can be sold, they must be notified to and published by the MHRA. This notification process ensures that products meet safety and quality standards. Their full regulations and standards can be found through this link: Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
Specifics
Labelling and Warnings and Packaging
Legal vapes must adhere to new labelling requirements and warnings:
Product Name: The product name on vape packaging should be clear and accurate, with no misleading or deceptive information. This requirement ensures that consumers can easily identify the product they are purchasing and understand its intended use. Misleading product names can lead to confusion and potential health risks.
Product Description: Vape packaging must provide a clear and accurate product description. This description should include comprehensive information about the product, such as its ingredients, contents, and intended use. Transparency in product descriptions allows consumers to make informed choices and understand what they are inhaling.
Nicotine Content: The nicotine content of the vaping product must be clearly labelled on the packaging. This information is crucial for consumers to gauge the strength of the nicotine they will be inhaling. Accurate nicotine labelling helps prevent excessive nicotine consumption, which can lead to health issues.
Age Restriction: All vape packaging must display an age restriction label. This label indicates that the product is not suitable for minors and should not be sold to individuals below the legal vaping age. Age restrictions are in place to protect young people from the potential risks associated with vaping.
Contact Details of the Manufacturer or Supplier: Vape packaging should include contact details for the manufacturer or supplier. This information allows consumers to reach out to the responsible party in case of questions, concerns, or issues related to the product. Transparency in contact details promotes accountability.
CE/UKCA Mark: The CE/UKCA mark is a mandatory requirement for all vape and vaping products. It indicates that the product meets the relevant safety standards and has undergone necessary testing and conformity assessments. The CE/UKCA mark is a symbol of compliance with European Union (EU)/UK regulations, ensuring that the product is safe for consumers.
Illegal Vapes: Risks and Dangers
Now that we've outlined the requirements for legal vapes, let's discuss the risks associated with illegal vapes, which fail to meet these regulations:
Health Risks:
a. Uncertain Ingredients: Illegal vapes often contain unknown or unregulated ingredients. This lack of oversight can lead to potentially harmful substances being inhaled by users, posing serious health risks.
b. Excessive Nicotine Concentrations: Some illicit vaping products may have nicotine concentrations well above the legal limit of 20mg/ml. This can result in nicotine poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and increased heart rate.
Dangers to Children:
a. Inadequate Child-Resistant Packaging: Illicit vaping products frequently lack child-resistant packaging, making them easily accessible to children. Accidental ingestion of nicotine can have severe consequences for young children.
b. Misleading Packaging: Illegal vapes may have packaging that appeals to children, with colourful designs or flavours that attract younger consumers, putting them at risk of exposure to harmful substances.
c. Selling to minors: Often, traders selling illegal vapes are more likely to sell to customers who are under the legal age of 18.
Broader Implications:
a. Lost Tax Revenue: The sale of illegal vapes often circumvents taxation, resulting in significant revenue losses for governments. These lost funds could have been used for public services and healthcare.
Black Market: Majority of illegal items will have to enter the country illegally and will therefore have the potential to be of financial benefit to gangs and other criminals, aiding and fuelling their other activities.
b. Unfair Competition: Legal vaping businesses that comply with regulations and pay taxes face unfair competition from illegal operators, which can impact their sustainability and growth.
Resources: The battle against the illegal vape industry has a burden on public resources. Finances, time, and effort that could be utilised elsewhere has to now be spent on reducing this problem.
Reporting Illegal Vapes
Consumers have a vital role in combating the spread of illegal vapes and protecting their own health. If you encounter a product that you suspect is an illegal vape, it's essential to report it to the appropriate authorities. This can be done by a number of different ways as per Trading Standards outlined in this link: https://www.tradingstandards.uk/media/3179067/how-to-report-guide.pdf
Conclusion
In the world of vaping, knowing the difference between legal and illegal vapes is crucial for safeguarding your health and protecting children from harm. Legal vapes adhere to strict regulations that prioritize consumer safety and product quality, while illegal vapes pose significant risks, from uncertain ingredients to excessive nicotine concentrations.
Knowledge is power, and by understanding the specific requirements for legal vaping products and staying informed about the potential risks of illegal vapes, consumers can make informed choices that prioritize their well-being. Additionally, reporting suspected illegal vapes to the authorities is a responsible step in contributing to the removal of dangerous products from the market, thereby helping to protect public health and safety.
]]>In this post, we'll look at several key factors to consider when travelling with a vape, such as what you need to know about vaping overseas and the laws that regulate vaping in different nations.
There are a few things to think about before travelling with a vape. First and foremost, you should investigate the vaping regulations in the country you intend to travel. This will assist you in determining whether or not it is permissible to vape in public locations, what the age requirements are, and whether or not there are any restrictions on the type of vape devices you may bring into the nation.
It's also worth noting that some countries have tighter vaping legislation than others. For example, in some nations, vaping in public places is prohibited, whilst in others, it is permitted but limited to specific smoking areas. Furthermore, certain countries may outright prohibit the use of specific types of vape devices or e-liquids.
Another factor to consider while travelling with a vape is airline rules on electronic cigarettes. Most airlines have special rules regulating the use and shipment of electronic cigarettes, which you should review before flying. Some airlines may allow you to transport your vape device in hand luggage, while others may require you to pack it in checked baggage.
When packing your vape equipment for a trip, it's also critical to keep it safe and secure. Vape batteries should always be stored in a battery case to avoid contact with metal objects which could create a short circuit. To avoid leaks, it's also a good idea to empty your vape tank or remove the cartridge from your vape pen before leaving.
It is critical to be up-to-date on the vaping legislation in the country you will be visiting when travelling with a vape. For example, in some nations, vaping is outright prohibited, whereas in others, it is permitted but only in authorised smoking places. It may also be unlawful to import vape equipment or e-liquids into some countries, so check the legislation before you travel.
When visiting a place where vaping is permitted, it is essential to observe local norms and rules. This includes not vaping in public places where it is not authorised and only using your device in designated smoking areas or private spaces where it is permitted.
It is also worth mentioning that the availability of vape items varies by country. Some nations may have a larger selection of vape devices and e-liquids than others, so do some research before you visit to find out what's available. You might also want to carry extra e-liquid and coils in case you can't find them locally.
When travelling with a vape, it's vital to be aware of the vaping legislation in the country you'll be visiting. Here are some examples of vaping rules from different countries:
These are just a few examples of how vaping legislation differ between countries. Before travelling with a vape, it's necessary to know the laws in the country you'll be visiting.
Here are some tips for travelling with a vape:
Travelling with an e-cigarette needs research and preparation to ensure compliance with local regulations and rules. You may have a stress-free vaping experience while going overseas if you follow these tips and stay aware of the vaping rules in different countries.
]]>known as Heets, these tobacco sticks are particularly crafted and constructed from a blend of tobacco, flavourings, and other components. The tobacco is cut into fine ribbons before being compacted into sticks. The sticks are intended for use with Heat Not Burn devices such as the IQOS.
Heets are available in a number of flavours, including menthol, tobacco, and rich aromas, allowing users to select the flavour that best suits their tastes.
IQOS is a Heat Not Burn device that warms tobacco to high temperatures, resulting in a tasty, nicotine-rich vapour that users inhale. The device is made up of two parts: the holder and the pocket charger. The holder is a little gadget that resembles a typical cigarette and is used to hold the tobacco stick. The pocket charger is a small, rechargeable device that recharges the holder.
Users insert a Heet into the holder, this warms the tobacco to roughly 350°C, which is hot enough to activate the nicotine and flavourings but not hot enough to produce smoke or ash. The vapour produced from the heated tobacco is then inhaled.
One of the advantages of using IQOS and Heets is that (according to the manufacturer) they emit 90% fewer hazardous chemicals than regular cigarettes. This means that users can get a pleasurable nicotine fix without being exposed to the the chemicals contained in smoke. Heets are also biodegradable, making them a more environmentally friendly alternative to ordinary cigarettes.
Another advantage of Heat Not Burn is the simplicity and convenience. The portable charger takes only 30 minutes to charge and can heat up to 20 Heets before needing to be recharged. This means that users may carry IQOS with them wherever they go without having to worry about running out of battery power or locating a power point.
To summarise, Heat Not Burn technology represents a breakthrough in the tobacco industry, providing smokers with an alternative to regular cigarettes. Heat Not Burn devices are a safer and more convenient way to have a pleasurable nicotine experience, and they are an excellent choice for smokers seeking a healthier and more environmentally responsible alternative. The growing popularity of Heat Not Burn technology indicates that it is here to stay and will continue to transform the way people smoke.
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Despite their name, nicotine salt e-liquids aren’t salty (we have been asked this before and it’s a totally valid question - not to be used on your Friday night fish and chips). The word “salt” comes from the type of nicotine used within the e-liquid. In your standard e-liquids, the nicotine within the formulation is termed freebase nicotine - nicotine in its purest form. In comparison, nicotine salts are derived from the natural salts found in tobacco plants, made up of (geek glasses on) positively charged, ionised nicotine modules bound to negatively charged organic conjugates. And breathe. Scientific jargon aside, how do they work within e-liquids, and why are they so useful to ex-smokers?
Welcome to the World of Nicotine Salts
Nicotine salts are the same form of nicotine found in traditional cigarettes, which are designed to provide a fast, powerful nicotine hit. Nicotine salt e-liquids (commonly known as nic salts) mimic a cigarette incredibly well by entering the bloodstream at a similar speed. On average, when smoking a cigarette, the nicotine hit arrives within 6-7 seconds, whereas freebase nicotine in standard nicotine-containing e-liquids tends to take a little longer for this effect to take hold. The nicotine hit you receive is faster and stays in the body longer, and the nicotine decrease is rapid too, just like a cigarette.
In addition, e-liquids containing nicotine salts allow you to vape at higher nicotine strengths without the rough throat hit you’ll experience from those strengths with standard e-liquids. Typically, the higher nicotine level you select, the throat hit you endure becomes much harsher, which can put off a lot of ex-smokers beginning their vaping journey. As such, nicotine salt e-liquids with a higher nicotine strength gives you a lot more bang for your buck, as you’ll end up vaping less because you get much more nicotine into your system for the level of buzz you’ll need to replicate cigarettes effectively. This is particularly useful for anyone looking for a quick nicotine fix throughout the day, such as workers who are used to nipping out for a cigarette break every few hours, rather than being able to vape all day.
An Overview of the Benefits of Nic Salts
So, let’s recap the benefits:
What Device Should I Use With Nicotine Salt E-Liquids?
Nicotine salts are best used with lower-wattage or mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices, as they don’t require higher temperatures to vapourise, whilst utilising high-powered devices will give you an excessive amount of nicotine that can be fairly unpleasant. If you’d like total free range of the liquid flavours and brands you pick, an open system - where you refill the device manually by purchasing nicotine salt e-liquids separately - would be best for you. Searching for simplicity, ease-of-use and convenience? A closed pod system may be more suitable, which comes with cartridges or pods that are pre-filled with nicotine salts to avoid you having to complete any coil changes or messy refills.
Ready to Get Started?
At VapeHQ, we’re proud to offer a wide range of nicotine salt e-liquids to help our customers make the transition from smoking. Stocking all of your favourite brands, from Dinner Lady, IVG and Ohm Brew to our very own Pure Essentials and Pure Essentials Lite, we have a huge variety of flavours available to suit your needs from menthol and tobacco to delicious fruity and sweet-flavoured e-liquids. Browse our pod kits and low-wattage MTL kits to find the perfect device, too!
Need more help? The friendly VHQ team are always on hand to answer any questions. Get in touch today via our live chat system to find out more about nicotine salts.
]]>If you're reading this blog, you're considering switching from smoking to vaping - and that's a big step towards making a real change in your life. It's the one thing in life where you can be proud to be a quitter, and we're here to support you through every step of the way. But making the switch isn't nearly as difficult as going cold turkey, or resorting to nicotine gum or patches that doesn't quite hit the spot.
That's because the nicotine addiction is only the half of it. Quitting nicotine completely without any transition is extremely difficult in itself, but you'll also find that you really miss standing outside with a cigarette and taking a break from your day, the action of inhaling and exhaling something - and even the social aspect of standing out in the smoking area! It's the little things that you've come to know, over however many years you've been smoking.
When you make the switch to vaping, you'll experience a much lower sense of finality than if you were to try and quit with gum, patches or nothing at all. You can still take a break from your day with an outdoor vape, you'll still experience the same inhale-exhale sensation, and you'll still get that nicotine hit. And even better? You get all the added bonuses, from the big financial savings, to the huge range of flavours available, to the ability to vape inside without any smells or stains to your home, hands or clothes, to your choice of nicotine strength... We could go on. Oh, and it's 95% less harmful, of course!
If you're a little further on in your journey, and you've officially make the decision to go from being a "smoker" to being a "vaper", you may be wondering where to start. The jargon and huge range of choice can seem a little overwhelming at first, but as always, we're here to help.
The first step is picking your device. We've put together a guide on how to find the perfect device for you, explaining some of the technical terms, going over the different parts that make up a vape kit, and exploring three different types of devices that will help you to pick that all-important first device. We also cover the two different types of vaping - DTL, where you inhale directly into your lungs, and MTL, which you'll find it exactly the same style of inhalation as smoking. Take a read through, and if you need any assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to the VHQ team.
The second thing you'll need is an e-liquid. If you love the taste of tobacco, you can make the switch much easier for yourself by picking a tobacco e-liquid that gives you an authentic flavour. Our Pure E-Liquid range includes a range of tobacco blend e-liquids to match some of the most popular cigarette brands, so that is always a great place to start.
Menthol smoker? We've got a huge selection of ice, mint and menthol e-liquids that you will immediately click with, or why not branch out and try a fruity menthol or something just a little different? After all, you're no longer limited to a few brands of cigarettes, the world is truly your oyster! Check out our guide on all things e-liquid, which walks you through picking flavours, nicotine strengths and much more. You'll be an e-liquid expert by the end of it!
You've picked a device and an e-liquid that suits your preferences, and now you're about to take that first inhale. Let's give you a quick run-down of some top tips before your first ever vape!
Disposables are the simplest way to make the switch to vaping. With a disposable device you do not have to worry about filling, charing or replacing coils. These type of devices are ready to go out of the box, simply open it up and it's ready to go, you don't even need to turn them on as they are activated by drawing on it in the same way you would a cigarette. Disposables come in a variety of flavours, just pick the flavour you fancy and you're all set. Click here to see our range of disposable devices.
As with all changes in your life, it’s great to have a support network whilst you’re trying to quit. Your friends and family are your first port of call, and if you have someone in your life who you can talk to about any struggles you’re having, it can hugely help towards keeping you on track and away from the cigarettes. With vaping now so common across the world, you may also have loved ones who vape - they can be really useful sources of technical and practical advice.
Whilst vaping is a much more enjoyable way of quitting smoking than going cold turkey or using nicotine replacement therapies like gum and patches, you may still struggle with cigarette cravings in the first week. This is completely normal! The key to staying on track with vaping is to not worry about how much you vape, even if it feels like you need to vape more than you ever needed to smoke.
Cravings typically last for a duration of five to ten minutes, so finding something to distract you during this time is key. Whether that’s making a brew, going for a short walk or chewing some gum, get your nicotine hit from your vape and wait for that pesky craving to pass. Keep the faith - you can do it! We also commonly suggest to our customers that, whilst you’re experiencing cigarette cravings, it’s a great time to reflect back on the real reason why you’ve tried to kick the habit. Whether it’s to save money, improve your health, protect your loved ones or just because, reminding yourself of your “Why” can do a lot.
As you get through the initial week, your cigarette cravings will begin to subside, and you can sit back, relax and enjoy vaping for what it really is. You've got this.
If you have any further questions about making the switch from vaping to smoking, we're always here to help. Just drop us an email or talk to us on live chat!
]]>You might expect an e-liquid to be filled with all sorts of chemicals and ingredients, but in fact, e-liquids within the UK are made from a maximum of five components to ensure safety and compliance with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This includes nicotine, Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerine (VG), flavourings and distilled water, although you’ll find that most brands have a nicotine-free option if that’s what you would prefer.
When you start off on your vaping journey, you’ll need to pick your first ever e-liquid. But this isn’t quite as simple as picking your favourite flavour - there are a few extra things to consider! In this guide, we’ll run through all the different aspects of picking an e-liquid to help you find the ideal juice for you!
We’ll start off with the most obvious part of your e-liquid decision, and the one you’ll initially be most comfortable with - choosing a flavour! When it comes to picking an e-liquid flavour, the world is at your feet. From the most deliciously fruity and exotic juices to indulgent dessert flavours, sweet candy aromas and rich tobacco blends, you have a huge range of options to suit your personal preference.
New vapers often find that the transition from smoking to vaping is made much easier by going with what they know, which is why some of our most popular e-liquids are Pure Ice Menthol, Pure Menthol and Pure Virginia, replicating your preferred cigarette brands or icy menthol hit! However, this is the chance to really explore the world of e-liquid flavours, so why not utilise our Pure or Vampire Vape multi-buy offer to try out a few different types?
Specific flavours aside, you’ll also find that you may also prefer one e-liquid brand to another. For instance, our Pure E-Liquid range is designed to provide a clearer, cleaner vape that won’t get overpowering as you go through the day, whilst brands such as Vampire Vape and IVG are great for vapers with a real sweet tooth!
Depending on the style of vaping you choose, whether that’s DTL or MTL, the exact ratio of your e-liquid’s components will differ, which is why you’ll see a “PG/VG Ratio” on each of our e-liquid’s product descriptions across the VHQ website.
PG is a food-safe chemical that you’ll find in many pre-packaged foods and medicines, and plays the role of carrying the nicotine and flavourings to enable proper vapourisation. It also provides the feeling the vaping industry term a “throat hit” which is a satisfying feeling at the back of your throat that you’ll instantly recognise from smoking. For MTL vaping, the method that most closely resembles smoking a cigarette, you’ll need an e-liquid with higher PG content such as 70% PG to 30 VG. This is because PG is more easily vapourised than VG, meaning you don’t need the higher power or lower-resistance coils that you find with DTL and sub-ohm devices.
VG is a derivative of plant oil, used as a sweetener and thickener in the food industry. In an e-liquid, VG is used to deliver big clouds of vapour, which is why you’ll need an e-liquid with a higher VG content for DTL or sub-ohm vaping - as high VG e-liquids require a specific type of coil and a more powerful battery to vapourise.
As a simple guide, we’ve demonstrated which PG/VG ratios are suitable for your style of vaping below:
E-liquids come in a wide range of nicotine strengths, from nicotine-free or 0mg, to the maximum allowed strength available in the UK of 20mg, or 2%. The stronger the % or mg amount, the more nicotine is delivered, with a more enhanced “throat hit”, just like a cigarette. Depending on whether you’re planning to vape MTL or DTL style, we’ll provide an easy explanation of which strength should suit you best, when compared to your previous smoking habits.
For MTL vapers, there are a wide range of strengths to pick from, so think about how many cigarettes you’re used to smoking, and start off on a strength similar to your experience. Depending on which e-liquid brand you pick, you’ll see that strengths are tiered differently - for instance our Pure E-Liquid range goes up in 5mg strengths, whereas Vampire Vape goes up in 3mg strengths.
If you want to vape DTL or sub-ohm, where you inhale directly from the device without holding the vapour in your mouth first like a cigarette, you’ll need a much lower nicotine strength liquid, typically between 0.3% to 0.6%, or 3mg/ml to 6mg/ml.
As you become more familiar with vaping, you might need to move to a higher or lower nicotine content e-liquid, to find that perfect hit. Many of our customers also make the decision to quit nicotine in general for good, so they slowly move down in nicotine strengths until they are satisfied with a nicotine-free e-liquid.
To throw something else into the mix, there is a completely different type of e-liquid that may suit your requirements A nicotine salt, or nic shot for short, is an e-liquid formulated in a slightly different way. And no, it’s not salty! Nic salts are a type of naturally-occuring nicotine found in the tobacco leaf, and are a brilliant option for anyone looking to curb their nicotine cravings for longer periods of time, or for anyone who can’t vape frequently and needs a longer-lasting nicotine hit.
A nicotine salt provides the most efficient delivery of nicotine to your bloodstream, unlike the distilled or “freebase” nicotine that you’ll find in a standard e-liquid. This is because the “salts” alter the PH level of the liquid, which is more compatible with the human body and how it absorbs nicotine. Just like your typical e-liquid, nicotine salts are still 95% less harmful than smoking a cigarette, with no other additives than your PG, VG, nicotine and flavouring mix.
Nic salts help you to vape less, so can be a good cost-effective option too if you find yourself making your way very quickly through a freebase nicotine e-liquid. You’ll also find that they can often provide a richer, flavourful and more enjoyable vaping experience, as freebase nicotine can affect the e-liquid’s overall flavour. However, nicotine salts may not be for you if you were a lighter smoker, as the high nicotine content within nicotine salt e-liquids can be too much for some.
Like the food in your fridge or cupboards, e-liquids do come with a “Best Before” date that gives you an idea of when your juice will be at its highest quality. However, this date is very different to those used by the food industry, as your e-liquid are shelf-stable just like canned food, meaning that your e-liquid is perfectly fine to vape for many years after this date. You’ll notice when your e-liquid may be a little too old to be tasty if you experience a gradual decrease in flavour and aroma, a change in colour of the e-liquid or bottle, and a reduction of nicotine potency.
So that’s it, a beginner’s guide to e-liquid! We hope we’ve explained every aspect of an e-liquid to you as clearly as possible, but if you are still unsure about what e-liquid is right for you, remember that the VHQ team are always here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a personal e-liquid recommendation to suit your preferences.
]]>For mouth-to-lung vapers, and anyone that loves to try various different flavours without committing, a standard 10ml bottle of e-liquid is ideal for you. 10ml e-liquids come pre-mixed with nicotine, from 0mg strengths to the maximum UK strength of 20mg. But, have you noticed that you can no longer buy any nicotine-containing e-liquids in a bottle size greater than 10ml?
For sub-ohm or direct-to-lung vapers, larger bottles of e-liquid were very useful, as a convenient, environmentally-friendly and money-saving option for the higher amount of liquid needed to vape using this method. Why purchase five 10ml bottles of e-liquid when you can purchase one 50ml bottle? But, with the introduction of the Tobacco Products Directive, or TPD, in May 2017, vape companies were no longer allowed to sell nicotine-containing e-liquids in bottles greater than 10ml in size. Vapers who were used to unlimited bottle sizes had to get the same amount of e-liquid that they required for their needs, but in 10ml bottles.
When the TPD came into force, the innovative vape industry had to deliver to combat this drastic change - how could we make large bottles of e-liquid that were still compliant with UK law? Introducing… the shortfill! Just like its name, a shortfill is an underfilled bottle of e-liquid ranging from 25ml to 200ml in size. As shortfill e-liquids do not contain any nicotine, they don’t fall under TPD regulation.
But where’s the nicotine, we hear you ask? Where’s the rest of the liquid? Shortfills are designed in this way to allow for the addition of a nic shot, or nicotine shot. Nicotine shots are typically 10ml bottles of e-liquid at 18mg nicotine strength, which can come in multiple variations including different ratios of PG/VG and either flavourless or containing menthol for an icy hit.
By adding a nic shot to your shortfill e-liquid, you can mix the juice to your desired strength, which is usually 3mg or 6mg for sub-ohmers. To do so, you simply pop the cap off the bottle, add the shot and shake vigorously, providing a much larger quantity of nicotine-containing e-liquid. For instance, adding a 10ml bottle of 18mg nicotine e-liquid to a 50ml shortfill would provide 60ml of 3mg e-liquid. If you’re a nicotine-free vaper, you’re ready to go as is!
With shortfill bottle sizes ranging from 25ml up to a huge 200ml, it can sometimes seem confusing how much nicotine you need to add - but it’s actually as simple as filling up your device! Here’s a useful table to explain exactly how to get the perfect strength for you.
Bottle Size |
Nic Shots Added |
Result |
25ML |
Half a nic shot |
30ML at 3MG |
1 x nic shot |
35ML at 6MG |
|
50ML |
1 x nic shot |
60ML at 3MG |
2 x nic shot |
70ML at 6MG |
|
100ML |
2 x nic shot |
120ML at 3MG |
4 x nic shot |
140ML at 6MG |
|
200ML |
4 x nic shot |
240ML at 3MG |
8 x nic shot |
280ML at 6MG |
Browse our huge range of TPD-compliant 10ml e-liquids and shortfills from 30ML to 100ML today, and find the perfect juice for you!
]]>Quitting smoking is much easier when you’ve got a quality device that matches your requirements, so in this guide we’ll walk you through the different types of vape kits and their varying features. You’ll be sure to find one that suits you just perfectly!
As you enter the world of vaping, you’ll come across two very commonly used acronyms. DTL and MTL. What on earth do they mean?
MTL, or mouth-to-lung vaping, is a style of vaping that copies the technique of smoking. You first draw vapour into your mouth, then into your lungs. This provides the “throat hit” effect much like smoking, which is why we would always recommend MTL vaping for anyone looking to make the switch away from smoking. For your quitting efforts to be as successful as possible, you’ll want your vaping experience to perfectly replace the feel of smoking a cigarette - and that’s why MTL vaping is our go-to suggestion.
DTL, otherwise known as direct-to-lung or sub-ohm vaping, is a vaping method used by more experienced vapers who want a deep lung hit. You may have seen pictures of people vaping and producing huge clouds of vapour - that’s DTL! To vape in this manner, rather than drawing the vapour into your mouth and then your lungs, you take the vapour directly into your lungs. It’s a little difficult to explain in comparison to smoking, but it’s more akin to taking a deep breath whilst allowing the vapour to enter your lungs within the air you breathe in, then breathing out as you normally would.
Before you pick a device, you’ll need to decide on which style of vaping is right for you. This is because the device you pick will be designed on one style or the other, with kits, e-liquids, tanks, coils and other accessories specifically made for either MTL or DTL vaping. Some more advanced kits can be tailored to either style… but if you’re getting confused already, stick with what you know and join the MTL club!
Drip tip or Mouthpiece: A drip tip is a hollow mouthpiece found on slightly more advanced vape kits, which screws directly onto the tank. They come in all shapes, sizes and designs, and can be made from materials such as steel, resin, aluminium, plastic or ceramic. When you purchase a vape kit you’ll usually get a drip tip provided, but when you get to the stage of wanting to customise how your drip tip looks and performs… you’ve officially graduated from the beginner school of vaping.
Coil: A coil is one of the most important components in your vape device, responsible for heating up the e-liquid in your kit and turning it into vapour. Coils are made from wire and a wicking material such as cotton or mesh. Coils come in a variety of specifications, from low-resistance coils suitable for sub-ohm or DTL style vaping, to high-resistance coils that are designed for MTL vaping. Again, when you purchase a vape kit, you’ll find that your device often comes with a few spare coils to start you off, so when you’re ready to purchase some replacement coils, you’ll just need to search our website for that type - no tricky decisions necessary!
Tank: Just like its name suggests, a vape tank is a reservoir which holds your e-liquid. With pod kits, your pod functions as a combination of a tank and coil, whilst with other starter kits your tank will typically be detachable for refilling and coil changes. Coils are attached to and held within the tank, which wicks juice and heats it up to produce vapour. When you purchase a vape kit, the tank will be included in addition to the body of your device, or “mod”, or you can purchase the two separately and mix and match.
The battery: If you’re new to vaping, you don’t have to worry about your battery. Most devices, aside from the most advanced, have a built-in battery that you’ll never even see, change or even think about. You simply plug your vape in to charge with a cable, and vape away!
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You Want: The Easiest Form of Vaping Possible
Disposables are the simplest way to make the switch to vaping. With a disposable device you do not have to worry about filling, charing or replacing coils. These type of devices are ready to go out of the box, simply open it up and it's ready to go, you don't even need to turn them on as they are activated by drawing on it in the same way you would a cigarette. Disposables come in a variety of flavours, just pick the flavour you fancy and you're all set. Click here to see our range of disposable devices.
Pod kits are usually a slightly smaller vape with a two-part system, a pre-filled or refillable pod and a device with an internal battery. How pod devices work is that each “pod” contains your coil and wick (and e-liquid if it’s pre-filled), meaning you’ll never have to worry about which coils you need, or do any fiddly coil changes. To use the pod You simply add your liquid, or buy the prefilled pods that match your device, clip into the device and go. When you’re finished with the pod - you’ll know this when the flavour starts to reduce in quality - you just click a new pod into your device!
Pod kits are a fantastic choice for beginner vapers, as you’ll get absolute simplicity from your vape. You don’t need to have any technical know-how, and some pod devices are even inhale-activated. That means that you don’t even have to press a button to vape, you just take a draw and the device will automatically release vapour.
Whilst pre-filled pod kits such as MyBlu do limit your flavour and brand selection when it comes to picking an e-liquid (but increase ease-of-use even further), refillable pod devices such as JustFog Minifit, Caliburn, Vapmor Vpen, Vaporesso Pod Stick and Innokin Go S provide total flexibility with your juice. You can pick from any brand of e-liquid on the market, from Pure to Vampire Vape, IVG, Ohm Brew and more. This enables you to find the perfect e-liquid for you, whether you’d prefer a fruit, dessert, menthol, sweets, cocktail, tobacco or some other crazy flavour!
You Want: Easy Vaping With a Few Different Settings
Vape pens are a style of device that… looks like a pen. Slim, smaller and very portable, a vape pen is a fabulous choice for on-the-go, convenient vaping. They come in a wide variety of colours, styles and features, but are most commonly a less complex form of device that makes them perfect for beginner vapers and those making the switch from smoking. These devices have a detachable tank that you refill with your choice of e-liquid, and you’ll typically have access to a smaller range of set customisation options, such as adjustable airflow and power settings, with very minimal complexity. You can cycle through these options to find the right setting for your needs.
You Want: To Customise Your Vaping Experience
Using a slightly more advanced kit gives you the opportunity to fully tailor every aspect of vaping, from the method of vaping (MTL or DTL) to the e-liquid you use, voltage, wattage and more. Whilst this may seem too complex if you’ve just started vaping, the majority of devices will provide guidance to the best settings for your chosen vaping method, and you can tweak your kit from these benchmarks until it’s just right.
Need more guidance on finding the right device for you? The friendly VHQ team are always here to help as experts on all things vaping, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a personal kit recommendation to start you off on your journey.
]]>Action on Smoking and Health state: “No person may produce or supply a cigarette or hand rolling tobacco with a filter, paper, package, capsule or other component containing flavourings; a filter, paper or capsule containing tobacco or nicotine; or a technical feature allowing the consumer to modify the smell, taste, or smoke intensity of the product.”
How Do I Get My Menthol Fix?
If you’re a menthol smoker, don’t panic. This may feel like a win for health, but it doesn’t feel like a win for you, when you’ve been accustomed to your menthol cigarettes of choice for so long. In fact, menthol users make up a massive 26% of all current smokers in the UK, so this new ban will provide tough choices for many individuals looking to satisfy their nicotine cravings.
If the menthol ban has inspired you to make a change to your habits, both vaping and heated tobacco products are exempt from the ban, so there are a wide variety of alternatives on offer. Making the switch to vaping presents menthol-seekers with the best chance of finding an alternative product that works for them, providing the same authentic experience as smoking, with that menthol freshness you’ve come to know and love. With nicotine gum and patches, many ex-smokers find it hard to manage without the hand-to-mouth action typical of smoking, or even the five minutes you get to yourself whilst you’re having a cigarette break.
With vaping, you’ll experience the feeling of familiarity you crave, in addition to having a wide range of flavours and nicotine strengths to most effectively replace your menthol cigarettes and tobacco. Used to only having a few options of menthol cigarette flavours? Welcome to a world of pure menthols, minty menthols, fruity menthols, tobacco menthols, cocktail menthols - we could go on! There are a huge range of menthol e-liquids and heated tobacco solutions that effectively replace your menthol cigarettes and tobacco, with the bonus of being, on average, 95% less harmful to your health than smoking.
We know that vaping can seem a bit daunting with so many options, but we’re here to help guide you through every step of the way. All of these choices exist to give you the best possible chance of quitting smoking for good, with a tailored smoking experience to suit your exact needs.
What Device Should I Start With?
Our first piece of advice is to begin with a device that isn’t too complex or expensive, to stop you from getting overly frustrated with a huge variety of settings. For ultimate ease-of-use, pod kits provide a clip-and-go vaping experience that could not be simpler, avoiding the need for fiddly coil changes and any technical know-how. Refillable pod kits such as the Vapmor Vpen, Innokin Go S provide the option to fill the pod with your choice of e-liquid, enabling you to find that perfect menthol and stick with it!
If you’re looking for something a little more advanced, without being overly complex, the Aspire Pockex or Vaptio Tyro Nano kits are a great choice. Want something stylish with great performance? We highly recommend the Innokin Kroma-R Zlide Kit, which comes with push-fit coils for increased reliability and easy coil changes, and is ideal for vapers of all experience and usage levels.
But what about if you’ve tried vaping before, and didn’t find it very satisfying - but you want to make the switch away from smoking? IQOS heat-not-burn devices are a great alternative to smoking, which heat tobacco as opposed to burning it, which releases the true taste of real tobacco. If you don’t get on with vaping, IQOS is a fantastic option to help you make the switch away from smoking, with Blue and Turquoise HEETS, or tobacco sticks, delivering a menthol hit you’ll love.
What’s the Best Menthol E-Liquid for Me?
At VapeHQ, our most popular e-liquids across the entirety of our online store and retail network are Pure Menthol and Pure Ice Menthol. Pure Ice Menthol delivers a blast of minty chill, whereas Pure Menthol is a classic menthol flavour, both ideal for menthol smokers looking to kick the habit and switch to vaping. Both Pure Menthol and Pure Ice Menthol are available in a range of nicotine strengths from 0mg to 20mg, for your perfect all-day vape.
Pure Ice Menthol takes the top spot as the UK’s favourite menthol, but don’t take our word for it, we’ve had 300 reviews on this brilliant juice! Here are some of our favourites:
“This was the first vape liquid I used when I chose to stop smoking, and it was so effective I never went back to cigarettes. One of the only flavours that doesn't ever fade. A daily vape that satisfies every time. The mint is cool and pleasant, the throat hit is perfection. When I use Pure vape products my coils last forever, saving me money. I have tried so many e-liquids but of all I have tried this is the best in every way.”
- Eddie
“Such a good taste. Stopped my craving of cigarettes too as is strong enough.”
- Amy
“Simply the best you can get. Gives you that extra hit other companies seem to lack. A definite re-order!”
- Jess
“Used Pure Ice Menthol for a long time. Tried several mint flavours, before being advised to try this. Wouldn’t change for anything else now.”
- David
“I’ve been using this flavour since I stopped smoking, and have tried many other flavours, but this is the best menthol on the market. Highly recommended.”
- Amanda
“Have been smoke-free since using a vape. Ice Menthol is the only flavour that does the job for me. Great delivery and excellent service.”
- James
In summary, we’d like to show our support on what could be a difficult day for some as the Menthol Ban comes fully into force. But if life is giving you a sign to stop smoking and make the switch to vaping, it’s now! Join the vaping revolution with VapeHQ today, and find your perfect menthol.
]]>With so many of you joining us this January to ditch the cigs, we’ve put together a timeline of the health milestones you can achieve if you continue your momentum throughout 2020. Even as quick as an hour into quitting smoking you’ll see improvements to heart rate, blood pressure and circulation, but let’s start where you’re at now. One month in!
If you’re reading this on the 31st of January and have been taking part in our smoke-free challenge for the month, your body is already beginning to heal. You’ll experience improved energy levels, plus a decrease in smoking-related symptoms such as sinus congestion, shortness of breath and pesky coughs. You’ll find it easier to perform activities such as running and jumping without wheezing or feeling light-headed.
And there’s more! Your lungs are now beginning to regenerate, helping to reduce excess mucus build-up and protect against any bacterial infections.
For the few months after quitting, you’ll see continued enhancements to circulation and lung function. For anyone with a womb, your fertility begins to improve and the risk that your baby will be born prematurely is reduced. You’ve also made it through the hardest part of withdrawal!
After an amazing nine months into your smoke-free journey, your lungs will have significantly healed. The delicate structures within your lungs have recovered, and you’ll see a decrease in the frequency in lung infections now that these fibers can do their job more easily!
One year in to quitting the cigs, and your risk for coronary heart disease has now decreased by HALF that of a smoker. This risk will continue to decrease the longer you stay smoke-free. You’ll also be able to breathe much easier when you’re exerting yourself, and coughing should be minimised.
As cigarettes are packed full of toxins, your arteries and blood vessels narrow which increases the likelihood of developing blood clots. After five years without smoking, your arteries and blood vessels begin to widen, lowering the risk of stroke. Your risk of stroke will continue to reduce over the next 10 years as the body continues to heal!
The big 1-0. 10 years after quitting smoking, your chances of developing lung cancer and dying from it are approximately cut in half in comparison to a non-smoker. In addition, your likelihood of developing mouth, throat or pancreatic cancer has significantly reduced.
15 years after quitting smoking, your chance of developing coronary heart disease has been reset - now comparable to the equivalent of a non-smoker. Plus, the risk of developing pancreatic cancer has reduced to this level too! At this stage, your body has hugely healed itself and the discomfort of those few weeks after quitting are a hazy memory. You’ve done brilliantly!
After 20 years, the risk of death from causes such as lung disease and cancer has officially dropped to the level of a person who has never smoked a cigarette in their life.
We’d like to say a huge congratulations to anyone who has joined us this January, whether you’ve given up smoking or have reduced your cigarette intake with the help of vaping. Through every step of your journey, we are here to help.
Find your nearest VapeHQ at https://vapehq.co.uk/pages/storelocator.
Best wishes,
The VapeHQ Team
After all the indulgent festivities and as the tunes of Auld Lang Syne fade away, it’s now time to get back to business and think about the exciting year of 2020. What will you do to make this year a better one for you and your family? There’s no better place to answer this question than in compiling your New Year’s resolutions.
For smokers nationwide, we’re dedicated to the one resolution that will outshine the rest. Making the switch for good, from cigarettes to vaping. If you’ve been thinking about beginning your smoke-free journey, the New Year provides you with a fresh, clean state from which to really strive for this goal.
If you’re still on the fence about the benefits of vaping, we’d like to run you through some of the most significant impacts that making the switch can bring. Here are eight key benefits you could enjoy if you decide to make the switch with VapeHQ in 2020.
1. Save your money
The average vaper spends just £5 a week. If you currently smoke 20 cigarettes a day, your weekly bill stands at around a whopping £70 a week, £300 a month or a huge £3,650 a year. 40 a day? Double that figure, then think about what you could do with that kind of money in your pocket! With an initial small outlay for your device, you’ll see a huge amount of difference in your weekly spend.
Calculate how much you spend on smoking here: https://www.nhsinform.scot/stopping-smoking/calculate-my-savings
2. Know what you inhale
As you may know, cigarettes contain thousands of chemicals, including carbon monoxide, arsenic, ammonia, radon, methane, acetone, butane, hydrogen cyanide and cadmium - released into your body when tobacco is burned through the process of combustion. Many of the ingredients within cigarettes are poisonous and over 60 are known to be cancer-causing (carcinogenic).
In comparison, e-liquids contain vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol, two products you will regularly find within your food and classified by the FDA as safe, plus distilled water, some flavours and nicotine. When you vape or use heated tobacco solutions such as the IQOS, nothing is burnt and no smoke is formed or inhaled - only vapour.
3. Improve your health
Filled with all of these chemicals, cigarette smoke has been proven to cause lung, throat and mouth cancer, plus a host of other diseases and health problems. Comparatively, vaping has no known links to cancer or lung disease, as no carcinogens are produced. In fact, Public Health England and the Royal College of Physicians have estimated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful, with vaping tightly regulated for safety and quality within the UK.
4. No second-hand smoking
If you have children or live with a partner, you may already know about the dangers of second-hand smoking. Smoking in the same environment as others can be detrimental to their health as well as your own, which contributes to over 300,000 GP consultations and 9,500 hospital admissions for children each year in the UK. With vaping, no smoke is formed, meaning that there is no danger of second-hand smoke inhalation.
5. Get that flavour!
At VapeHQ, many of the team are ex-smokers. That’s why we understand that you may like the smell and taste of tobacco or menthol, or you may be addicted to the nicotine and ritual of smoking without a care in the world for the taste! That’s why we offer a huge range of flavours to suit all palates, from replica tobacco or menthol to fruit, dessert, drinks or sweets flavours. You’ll also notice that, after quitting smoking, your sense of smell and taste improves quite significantly
6. Smell better
When it comes to cigarettes, we don’t need to preach this point. You already know that cigarette smoke sticks to anything and everything, from your hair, to your clothes, to your curtains - even if you nip outside with the kitchen door open. When you vape, a subtle vapour is produced which does not cling to anything, leaving you, your family and your house smelling fresh.
7. Control your nicotine
As you initially make the switch over to vaping, you may wish to begin at a higher nicotine level to help you avoid any cravings. The great thing about e-liquids is that they come in many strengths, meaning you can gradually reduce your nicotine intake down to as low as you’d like - even 0mg. You can also choose the amount you wish to vape at any time, perfect for if you just need a little hit to get you through part of your day.
8. Vape inside!
This is our last point within our New Year’s blog, but for some it’s a huge factor. Whilst some people do choose do smoke inside, the majority of individuals have to go outside to smoke. When it’s raining or freezing outside, it’s never the most pleasant experience. With vaping, you are free to vape within your own home, without the fear of making your house smell, second-hand smoking or accidentally burning a hole in the carpet. Some pubs in the UK are now vape-friendly too, which is a trend we will gradually see more of throughout the years.
If you were thinking of making the switch already, or if we’ve convinced you with our Eight Reasons Why, know that at VapeHQ we truly are here to help. Our friendly vape advisors and huge range of products are on hand to help you quit the cigarettes for good.
Find your nearest VapeHQ at https://vapehq.co.uk/pages/storelocator to make the switch today.
Best wishes,
The VapeHQ Team
It’s the middle of VApril and we are so proud of you for powering through this challenge. You are embarking on a journey to go smokefree, which might take you a day, it might take longer, but we have faith in you.
If you need a little more encouragement, here are some good reasons to make the switch!
1. Vape wherever you want (almost)
Whilst smoking in your house can stain paint and turn it yellow, plus make your home smell like an ashtray, vaping inside isn’t an issue. At VapeHQ Head Office, we vape at our desks. Even better, some pubs, restaurants and other establishments are gradually learning about vaping and allowing you to vape indoors. No more standing outside in the rain.
2. Vaping is less harmful
Nearly half of the population don’t realise that vaping is much less harmful than smoking, up to 95%! Yes, if you use a nicotine e-liquid there are still some risks, but in comparison to the carcinogens, tar and other nasties within conventional cigarettes, it’s one of the best and most satisfying smoking replacements. For your family, vaping is also a less harmful option, with second-hand vaping currently undergoing studies which demonstrate that it poses little danger, if any.
3. Save money!
Whilst cigarettes typically cost between £8 to £10 a pack, or even more depending on your favourite brand, our Pure e-liquids start from just £4.50 per bottle - or get 3 bottles for just £12.50. The average smoker usually vapes around 2ml to 3ml per day, making vaping significantly more friendly to your wallet.
If you have any questions or want more advice on how to make the switch, please visit any one of our VapeHQ stores across the country. Our vape consultants will help you through every step of the way.
You can find your closest VapeHQ by clicking here.
Share your vaping journey using social media and the hashtags #VAprilChallenge and #VapeWithVHQ!