With over 35 million users from around the globe, it’s safe to say that vaping has been widely accepted by the general public. As an effective alternative to cigarettes, it’s no surprise that more people are starting to see the true value of pods and box mods. But while vaping’s ever-increasing popularity is something to be happy about, there’s no ignoring the fact that many people still have misconceptions about e-cigarettes.

If you take a good look at the history of vaping, you’ll notice that the smoking alternative is relatively young. Since it’s only been around for two decades, those who aren’t too familiar with e-liquids and other similar products tend to make assumptions about it. But if you want to get into vaping or are looking to make better choices as a consumer, you should always arm yourself with the right information. To help you out, the guide below will debunk 5 common vaping myths.

Vaping and E-Cigarette Myths

Myth: E-cigarettes are not regulated.

Truth: Vape regulations already exist and are evolving.

Any consumable product must be approved by the relevant agencies before they are officially introduced to the public. While a high number of organizations may make you think otherwise, you’ll be happy to know that vaping products are, in fact, regulated. 

Authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have taken the necessary measures to safeguard the public’s health. Other than prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes to minors, they’ve made it a point to standardize the quality of products. Thanks to these requirements, you won’t have to worry that the e-liquid your consuming contains questionable ingredients, as long as you stick to legitimate sources, of course.

Myth: Vaping can’t help you quit smoking cigarettes.

Truth: Yes, it certainly can.

Letting go of a smoking habit can be a very difficult task. Since the process can take a lot of time and willpower, people who are looking to stop seek the help of alternatives such as nicotine patches and gum. If you’re planning to quit for good, it’s interesting to know that e-cigarettes will make things easier for you.  

A 2019 study compared the effectiveness of e-cigarettes with other nicotine replacement products. After a year of research, it was found that 18% of e-cigarette users were eventually able to quit smoking. This figure is highly significant since only 10% of participants who were using patches and gums were able to stop.  

Since the transition to becoming a non-smoker can take a while, regulated consumption of e-fluids can help you cope with withdrawals or tough bouts of stress. If you’re having some difficulties, it’s best to consult with a medical professional for a proven strategy.

Myth: Vaping is as harmful as smoking cigarettes.

Truth: Not even close.

Many people tend to think that nicotine is the ingredient responsible for causing cancer. Since it’s present in both cigarettes and e-liquids, many people fall into the notion that vaping is just as harmful. But unlike traditional tobacco products, vape juices don’t contain harmful components such as tar, carbon monoxide, and arsenic.

Nicotine may be the ingredient that makes people addicted to smoking but it’s the other chemicals that are responsible for damaging one’s lungs. E-cigarettes aren’t completely harmless, but considering their contents, the risks they pose are significantly less. In fact, the risks associated with smoking vapes are 95% less than cigarettes.

Note: Knowing about the harmful contents of a cigarette will discourage you from lighting one up. 

Myth: Vaping is harmful to bystanders.

Truth: Potentially, but not really.

When it comes to cigarettes, medical evidence has proven time and time again that second-hand smoking is dangerous to one’s health. Since tobacco-based products contain harmful carcinogens, this is precisely the reason why some countries such as the UK and Japan prohibit smoking in public areas. Unfortunately, the risks brought by secondhand smoking have created a stigma that vaping can also be harmful to bystanders. 

Up to this day, there’s still no concrete proof that passive vaping can greatly affect one’s health. Given that e-liquids are only composed of 4 main ingredients: nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavoring, the vapor users emit are relatively harmless. However, it’s important to note that people who have underlying respiratory conditions (e.g. Asthma) may be irritated by it. As you enjoy your vaping products, always remember to be mindful of the people within your vicinity and do not vape near children or pregnant women. 

Myth: E-cigarette manufacturers encourage the youth to smoke.

Truth: Absolutely not.

E-cigarette providers do not encourage smoking among the youth in any way. Underage users may be trying out vapes or cigarettes due to their curiosity, but laws and regulations make it difficult for them to do so. If you take a look at vape ads or visit the online shop of some companies, you’ll notice that warnings and restrictions are placed visibly.

As anti-smoking policies and the selling process of brands become stricter, it’s expected that e-cigarette smoking among the youth will continue to decline. 

The Truth is Out

Now that we live in a digital world, access to information has never been this easy. As you consume content on your social media feed, always remember to approach things with care. Knowing how to discern facts effectively will help you steer clear of the consequences of misinformation.