PROS AND CONS OF VAPING
May 24, 2023
As more research comes out on the link between cigarettes and cancer, many smokers are looking for a healthier alternative to get their nicotine fix. Nicotine acts on receptors in the brain that help us feel happy, relaxed, and alive. After consistent use over time, a smoker’s brain becomes used to the presence of nicotine and craves it more strongly the more it’s used. As such, it can be extremely difficult to quit smoking even though the side effects are often disastrous. Vaping has helped users cut down on the number of cigarettes and reduce their dependence on nicotine for years now and is a much healthier method of inhaling the substance. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of vaping below.
Pros
Overall Health—Since vaporizers only heat the substance enough to produce vapor and don’t actually burn the product, vaping doesn’t produce the carcinogens that regular cigarettes do. For smokers looking to reduce their cancer risk, vaping is a much safer option than cigarettes.
Cost—Although the initial cost of a vaporizer and juice may be higher than a pack of cigarettes, it actually costs less in the long run than a cigarette habit. If you also factor in medical costs saved from switching, it’s a no-brainer!
Little to No Smell—This is a big pro for many users, especially for people in public. Cigarettes produce their familiar odor, but vaporizers, again, don’t burn the product or give off as much of an odor, if at all. Additionally, studies have found far less toxins in second-hand vapor than second-hand cigarette smoke, so just another reason why the public prefers vaporizers over cigarettes.
Options—With the vaporizer industry booming right now, there are a plethora of flavor options, nicotine levels, and modifications you can choose for your vaporizer. No matter how picky you are, you’re sure to find the perfect device and juice combo to suit your preferences.
Cons
Allergies—Some users have reported allergic reactions to the contents of vape juice. Most juice contains a combination of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), however, you can find juices on the market that are 100% one or the other, plus the nicotine and flavoring. If you experience allergies with one type, you can try the other as an alternative.
Battery Safety—The batteries in a vaporizer must be properly cared for to reduce risk of explosion. Most explosions that have occurred with vaporizers were due to human error. Vapers who like to experiment with MODs accidentally overloaded their battery, which caused it to explode. As long as you follow battery best practices, like avoiding tampering with it, storing at room temperature, ensuring proper ventilation when charging, and pairing it with compatible parts inside of your vaporizer, you shouldn’t have any abnormal problems with your battery.
May Not Help You Quit—Although vaporizing may be a healthier alternative to smoking, and it has helped smokers reduce their nicotine intake in many cases, it may not completely aid in helping one quit smoking. Since nicotine dependence is both a physical and psychological addiction, users often need counseling and support to help them fully quit. If you’re not a smoker to begin with, it’s best not to pick up the habit of vaping in the first place.