Understanding nicotine levels in DIY vape juice is crucial for both experienced vapers and those looking to enter the world of vaping. With the rise in popularity of DIY vape juice, it's important to know how to properly handle and mix nicotine to ensure a safe and satisfying vaping experience. First and foremost, it's essential to understand that nicotine levels in DIY vape juice are measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml). This measurement determines the strength or concentration of nicotine in your e-liquid.
The importance of proper nicotine measurement
The importance of proper nicotine measurement cannot be overstated when it comes to DIY e-liquids. Nicotine is a key component in e-liquids, providing the desired throat hit and satisfaction for vapers. However, accurate measurement is crucial to ensure safety and consistency in the vaping experience.
Firstly, improper nicotine measurement can lead to health risks for vapers. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance, and too much of it can cause adverse effects such as increased heart rate, dizziness, nausea, and even poisoning. On the other hand, too little nicotine may not provide the desired satisfaction for smokers trying to switch to vaping as a harm-reduction tool. Therefore, precision in measuring nicotine quantities is essential to avoid potential health hazards.
What is nicotine and its effects?
Nicotine is an addictive substance found in e liquid, the liquid used in electronic cigarettes or vaping devices. It is a naturally occurring compound found in tobacco leaves, known for its stimulant properties. When heated, it vaporises and can be inhaled.
The effects of nicotine on the body are both physical and mental. When inhaled, it quickly enters the bloodstream, reaching the brain within seconds and triggers the release of dopamine. This surge of dopamine creates a sense of euphoria and relaxation, which contributes to its addictive nature.
However, nicotine also has several detrimental effects on health, so using it in decreasing amounts over time is recommended to break the addition.
What are the main nicotine strengths for pre-mixed e-liquid?
The most common range of nicotine levels found in pre-mixed e-liquids in the UK is 3mg - 20mg, with the most commonly found strengths being 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 20mg.
However, when creating your own DIY vape juice, you can customise the nicotine level based on personal preference.
Is 20mg of nicotine considered a lot?
In 2016, TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) regulations were introduced that limit the nicotine strength for pre-mixed e-liquids to 20mg/ml (2%). Generally, this is considered to be around the same amount of nicotine found in a regular cigarette, so it's an excellent place for ex-smokers to start when determining their ideal nicotine levels.
Vapers who are used to higher nicotine strengths might find 2% relatively low, so may opt for DIY e-liquids as a way to experiment with nicotine levels. Those who prefer a smoother and milder experience might find 2% (or lower) sufficient.
Factors to consider when determining nicotine levels
When it comes to mixing your own e-liquids, one of the most important factors to consider is the nicotine level. Nicotine is a key component in traditional cigarettes, and its presence in e-liquids can mimic the same satisfaction that smokers seek. However, determining the right nicotine level for your DIY e-liquid can be a daunting task. Here are some essential factors to consider before choosing a nicotine strength.
Firstly, it's crucial to assess your smoking habits and determine how much nicotine you currently consume. If you are a heavy smoker who goes through multiple packs a day, you may require a higher nicotine concentration in your e-liquid to satisfy cravings. On the other hand, if you're a light or occasional smoker, starting with lower concentrations would be advisable.
Freebase nicotine or nic salts?
When it comes to creating your own e-liquid, understanding the effects of freebase nicotine and nicotine salts is essential. Both forms of nicotine are commonly used in e-liquids, but they differ in terms of potency and how they affect your vaping experience. The choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference, desired throat hit, and overall satisfaction.
Freebase nicotine is the most common form used in traditional e-liquids. It is created by removing protons from the nicotine molecule through a chemical process called deprotonation. This modification increases the pH level, making it harsher on the throat and requiring higher levels to achieve a satisfactory vaping experience. In contrast, nicotine salts are created by combining pure nicotine with an organic acid such as benzoic acid, so users can achieve a better nicotine hit at lower levels.
Determining the right nicotine level for your DIY vape juice
Determining the appropriate nicotine level for DIY vape juice is a personal process that requires experimentation. It is important to keep in mind that individual preferences vary greatly, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase until finding the perfect balance. Ultimately, finding the right nicotine level in DIY vape juice involves trial and error, but with patience and persistence, vapers can create a customised vaping experience tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
If you're ready to start mixing your own e-liquids, F&S DIY e-liquid has everything you need. Our range includes custom-mixed e liquid bases with nicotine or without, nic salts and nicotine shots, and e-liquid flavour concentrates from the leading brands in the industry. Order online today for fast UK delivery.