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As the popularity of electronic cigarettes surges, more and more people question, “Is vaping bad for you?”. Undoubtedly, this is a valid concern, given the alarming effects of smoking. While it has emerged rapidly as a popular alternative to tobacco consumption, people are still dubious of its safety or are concerned about its impact on one’s health. Luckily, we are here to help clear that doubt. This blog addresses your growing concerns and debunks some myths.
So, without any delay, let’s get right into it.
To answer the question of how bad is vaping for your health, it is important to know how it works. In hindsight, it involves inhaling vapours produced by electronic cigarettes or similar devices like disposable vapes, Vape Kits, etc. Unlike traditional cigarettes, these devices work by heating vape juice (eliquid) containing nicotine (optional), flavourings, and other ingredients. The absence of combustion is a significant reason it is relatively less harmful than smoking.
For decades, researchers have debated this comparison. Sufficient evidence shows that 7,000 chemicals in traditional smoke are toxic and carcinogenic. Public Health England, in one of their extensive research, declared it as 95% safer than smoking itself. Yet still, the question “How Bad is Vaping?” lingers.
Here is a quick breakdown between both for a better picture:
Aspect |
Smoking |
Vaping |
Main Substance Inhaled |
Tobacco smoke (burnt tobacco) |
Vapour from e-liquid (nic salts and flavourings) |
Combustion |
Yes (burns tobacco at high temperatures) |
No (heats e-liquid, no combustion) |
Toxic Chemicals Produced |
Over 7,000 harmful chemicals, including tar, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde |
Fewer toxic substances; traces of chemicals like heavy metals, but much lower levels |
Carcinogens |
Many carcinogens, including benzene and formaldehyde |
Significantly fewer, non-combustive process reduces harm |
Effects on Lungs |
Tar buildup, prone to lung cancer, COPD, chronic bronchitis |
No tar, much lower risk of lung diseases |
Nicotine Delivery |
Yes (in high amounts) |
Yes (adjustable levels) Explore more to choose the right nicotine strength. |
Impact on Heart |
Increased chances of heart disease and stroke |
Less harmful to the heart; no combustion means reduced chances of heart-related issues |
Oral Impact |
Stains teeth, causes foul breath, increases gum disease |
Minimal staining, less risk of gum disease (but nicotine can affect gum wellness) |
Addiction |
Highly addictive due to nicotine and habit-forming behaviour |
Addictive but generally offers a way to reduce nic levels over time and helps quit smoking |
Health Risks |
High rate of cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke |
Lower rate of all cigarette-related diseases, but long-term effects are still under study |
Cost |
More expensive due to the continuous purchase of cigarettes |
Cheaper in the long term; requires upfront purchase of vape device, but refills are cheaper Learn more about how much do vape cost. |
Environmental Impact |
Produces large amounts of waste (cigarette butts, ash) |
Produces vapour, which dissipates, and less waste (no ash or cigarette butts) |
Looking to switch habits; here is a beginner’s guide for vaping.
Even though it is considered a much safer alternative, the question of “Is vaping bad for you?” depends on various factors. The quality of one’s e-liquid, frequency of usage, consumption, and device authenticity play a significant role. (read more to spot fake vapes). Nicotine is the primary substance used in both traditional smoke and vape juices. However, it isn't the primary troublemaker. It’s the toxic by-products of combustion after lighting up a cigarette that's problematic (this is entirely avoided in vapes).
While cigarette consumption is known to cause at least 16 different types of cancer, including the lungs, there is no tar in vape devices. In the short term, vapers may experience symptoms like dry throat, nausea or slight dizziness, but they are mild and temporary. For now, it possesses fewer risks comparatively. However, much research is yet needed.
Oral hygiene is yet another emerging concern. How bad is vaping? Smoking is notorious for causing poor oral health and mouth cancers. Luckily, it has no such drastic impact on one’s teeth. Though there is a slight chance of reduced blood flow due to nicotine in e-juices, the level of harm in comparison to tobacco is minimal. Plus, unlike cigarettes (which leave a tar layer causing staining), electronic cigarettes don't cause staining.
Vaping has helped millions quit, especially in October with its stoptober quit smoking campaign. There are some worth mentioning benefits of it and here are some:
Controlling one’s nic intake is essential in one's cessation journey, and e-puffs allow that. From zero to various strengths, you can customise it accordingly without developing a significant addiction.
They are known to be more environmentally friendly with lesser impacts, along with not emitting polluted smoke and other waste like cigarette butts.
Along with many types of e-cigarettes, there are many great disposable vape flavours to enjoy. You have the leverage to control your nic intake and choose your preferred device and favourite flavour for a fun cessation journey.
There are many common myths and questions to ask. Here are some debunked:
A lot of people wonder if it has adverse side effects. There is less research to state it for sure. However, it has proven less harmful than tobacco since it doesn't have many harmful toxins.
There is a common misconception that electronic pods are equally addictive as traditional ones. Both of these do contain nicotine, but e-cigs are relatively less addictive. Plus, you can always adjust your strength according to your preference and gradually reduce it.
Again, research in such a domain is limited. However, e-liquids and their vapours don't contain much harmful chemicals or pollutants for the environment and people around them. On the other hand, passive smoke is known to be super harmful to the people around.
So, what's the verdict? The answer is short and simple; while it is not precisely without risks, it is comparatively safer than traditional smoke. The physical impacts are minimal, and it is a good alternative for your cessation journey. Want to learn more about it? Read our guides or talk to our specialist for personalised advice!
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