Because more people are taking better care of their health than ever before, concern about the safety of e-juice is appropriate. The safety of e-juices and what exactly they are made of is important. Many people think that if you’re “smoking” something, it’s unhealthy or it’s full of chemicals. Rest easy, e-juices are perfectly safe.
People often ask what the difference is between propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG)? Can either of these ingredients be harmful to one’s health? What about allergies and side effects?
If E-cigs are used as a ‘quit-smoking’ tool, obviously the smoker is concerned about their health. So, they are often concerned about switching one bad habit for another. But that’s not true. E-juices and their vapor as safe. Here’s why.
E-juices are made with propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), natural flavorings, and nicotine at the request of the consumer. Nicotine is sometimes the same dosage as a cigarette and weaned down gradually. Some people start at a lower dose and adjust accordingly. Vaping can also be a nicotine-free experience.
Some e-juices contain water and/or a sweetener. The amount of PG to VG varies by brand. Most e-juices are organic (meaning no pesticides or other harmful ingredients) and are considered safe.
What Does PG and VG Mean?
Vegetable glycerin (VG) is thicker than propylene glycol (PG). If the e-juice you select contains more VG, it will produce a lot more vapor. This is a personal preference and is used by vaping ‘hobbyists’. E-juices that contain more PG have a robust flavor and can deliver a greater throat hit. This is especially important for people who are quitting tobacco. You can also purchase e-juice in a 50PG/50VG formula. Personal preference varies.
Safe To Inhale?
Both PG and VG are used in many food products, and in medical and pharmaceutical products. Some asthma inhalers also contain PG and it is generally recognized as safe (G.R.A.S.) by the FDA. This information can be found on the FDA website.
Some people mistakenly assume that PG is harmful because it's used in anti-freeze. PG is actually used as a safer alternative in anti-freeze. It replaces the more harmful ethylene glycol producing a more non-toxic anti-freeze. It’s important not to confuse the two.
Are There Allergies and Other Side Effects Associated With E-juices?
There are numerous consumable food products made with the exact same ingredients. You probably have already consumed of these products. You would most likely already know if you are allergic. The most common allergy symptoms from PG would be eczema, throat irritations, and nausea. If you are concerned about PG, switching to 100% VG should resolve these symptoms. Of note, PG is also used in numerous cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, and many other products. Check the labels on some of your health and beauty items. You might already be using PG.
Other side effects from PG and VG would include dry mouth, sore throat, and increased thirst. Drinking more fluids can help. Similar symptoms can also be attributed to withdrawal from tobacco products.