The Main Ingredients of an E-liquid

When you take a puff, thick clouds envelop your sight, as if you're floating above the world, weightless and free. The cool, icy sensation or fruity burst dances on your tongue, making you feel like you're drifting through heaven with every exhale. But what makes this experience possible? It all comes down to the carefully selected vape liquid ingredients, each playing a key role in creating those delicious flavours and smooth vapour. 
After reading this, we know you’d be wondering what is in a vape liquid or what is in the e-juice that makes it the heart of every vape device out there. Hold on, as we’re here to tell you what vape juice is made of that works this magic.

The key vape ingredients that make up your e-liquid are:

• PG (Propylene Glycol)
• VG (Vegetable Glycerin)
• Nicotine (Optional)
• Flavourings

Now, before you get confused about what each of them is and how all vape juice ingredients work, this blog will tell you about each one of them. New to vape juice? Explore our comprehensive guide to e-liquids.

Let’s first get started with PG and VG!

We all have heard these terms, PG and VG, but very few of us actually know about them. PG stands for propylene glycol, which is sourced from natural gas or plant-based sources. VG stands for Vegetable glycerin, which is a natural chemical derived from vegetable oils. Both of these are non-toxic, organic compounds. They are widely used as additives in a variety of commercial foods and personal care products because they’re considered safe to use.

What PG Does in Vape Juice?

Firstly, we will discuss PG, or propylene glycol. It is one of the important vape juice ingredients because of some amazing properties, including:

• Its thin consistency helps the vape juice get absorbed by the polyfill and cotton fabric much faster.
• Less gunk build-up when heated.
• Tasteless, so it doesn’t alter the original flavour of your vape juice.
• It also produces a strong throat hit.
• PG is commonly used in tobacco, fruit and beverage vape fluids. It blends well with tart and fizzy flavours.

Along with these properties, there is one downside too: PG can cause allergic reactions in some consumers. These reactions can vary from minor, like a tingling sensation in the throat, to serious, like tingling in various parts of the body.

VG, which is also one of the primary vape ingredients, is the opposite of PG because it is:

• Thicker in consistency, which means slower absorption. The thickness causes gunk buildup.
• It has a sweet taste, which often makes it hard to detect the actual flavour of the vape juice.
• VG also gives less of a throat hit.
• The allergy risk is much lower than PG, but some vapers have complained about phlegm after using vape juice completely based on VG.
• This vape liquid ingredient is renowned for producing dense clouds.
• VG is mostly used in cream, custard and yoghurt flavoured vape fluids. It provides that thick, mouthful of dessert feeling.

Now let’s talk about when you should choose PG and when you should choose VG, also when you need a mix of both these vape ingredients.

• Throat hit: For a stronger throat hit, you need a high PG ratio mixed with freebase nicotine or nicotine salts.
• Smoothness: For a smooth vaping experience, your preference should be high VG, but the wattage must be adjusted to avoid any dry hit or burns.
• Surreptitious vaping: If you don’t want people to give you odd looks while you’re vaping, you need to choose high PG vape juice because high PG vaping produces less vapour.
• Cloud-chasing vape: If you like dense clouds and that thick mouthful feeling, high VG vape fluid is the right choice.

For further information, check out our guide on PG and VG in e-liquids!

Nicotine, found naturally in tobacco, is one of the star vape juice ingredients in e-liquids that gives you that satisfying hit. When you vape, nicotine quickly enters your bloodstream, hitting your brain and giving you that relaxed, happy feeling. It's why it can be addictive for some, and also gives you a little energy boost. With a range of nicotine strengths available, whether you want to go nicotine-free or need a stronger hit, there’s an option for everyone!

E-liquids typically contain two types of nicotine: freebase nicotine and nicotine salt, each offering a different experience. Let’s get to know more about them:

Freebase Nicotine:

Freebase nicotine is the classic choice for vaping. It provides a steady release of nicotine and delivers that satisfying throat hit, especially at higher levels. If you enjoy a strong, intense experience similar to smoking a traditional cigarette, freebase nicotine is your go-to.

Nicotine Salt:

Nicotine salt is the smooth operator of the vaping world. It absorbs quickly into your bloodstream, giving you a quicker, more satisfying hit with a gentler throat feel, even at higher concentrations. It’s perfect for those who want a fast and smooth nicotine experience without the harshness.

Not sure which nicotine type or strength is right for you? Our guide makes it easy!

Flavourings are one of the key ingredients in vapes that make each puff truly enjoyable. These food-grade, inhalation-safe flavourings are what transform your e-liquid into a flavour-packed adventure. Whether you’re craving juicy fruit blends or indulging in decadent dessert tastes, these flavourings turn every puff into a delicious experience. It’s what makes vaping so much fun; there’s a flavour for every mood.

How to Make Vape Juice?

Making vape juice at home is pretty straightforward. You’ll need four main ingredients: vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), nicotine (optional), and flavour concentrate. Mix VG and PG in your preferred ratio, add flavour, and stir well. If you're using nicotine, measure it carefully; our e juice calculator can help get the balance just right. Let it steep, and you're good to go.

Conclusion

At our online vape shop, we know the magic of vaping lies in the mix. Whether you’re after bold throat hits or thick, flavourful clouds, choosing the right e-liquid makes all the difference. Discover the perfect balance of vape ingredients and enjoy a tailored vaping experience like never before!