Another myth is that e-cigarettes can explode easily. While there have been incidents of e-cigarettes exploding, these are typically due to improper usage or faulty batteries. These incidents are rare and can generally be avoided by following proper charging procedures, using the correct e-cigarette batteries, and avoiding physical damage to the device. Education around battery safety has become a key component of responsible vaping, helping to minimise these risks further. A report by the BBC looks in depth at the most likely reasons why a vape pen would explode, highlighting the dangers of malfunctioning batteries and unregulated products.

One of the most common worries we hear about e-cigarettes and e-liquid is that we don’t know what’s in them. The fact is that in the UK, nicotine vaping products are tightly regulated for safety and quality. All products for sale must be notified to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) with detailed information, including a listing of all ingredients. Always buy your vaping products from a reputable supplier, such as a specialist vape shop, pharmacy, supermarket, or a UK-based online retailer like Go Smoke Free, so you are covered by UK safety and quality regulations.

There is a widely held belief that vaping is just as harmful, if not more dangerous, than smoking traditional tobacco products. This misconception often stems from the presence of nicotine in many e-liquids, leading people to equate the two. However, numerous studies have demonstrated that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking. Public Health England, for instance, has repeatedly stated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking. The primary reason is that smoking involves combustion, which produces tar and a multitude of toxic chemicals. Vaping, on the other hand, heats a liquid to create vapour, largely avoiding these harmful byproducts. While not entirely risk-free, especially for those who have never smoked, vaping presents a far lower risk profile compared to combustible tobacco.

Another widespread myth is that the nicotine in e-liquids is the main cause of health problems associated with smoking. While nicotine is an addictive substance and not without its risks, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, it's not the primary driver of smoking-related diseases. The real culprits are the thousands of other chemicals produced during smoking. Nicotine, on its own, does not contribute to lung cancer, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at the same rates as smoking. This makes vaping a potentially valuable tool for harm reduction in smokers who are trying to quit.

A particularly horrifying myth is the idea that e-liquids contain anti-freeze, specifically a substance known as diethylene glycol. This myth likely originated from a 2009 FDA report that found trace amounts of diethylene glycol in one e-liquid sample. However, this was an isolated incident, and the industry has since implemented stricter quality controls. Modern e-liquids typically contain propylene glycol, a common food additive recognised as safe by the FDA, and vegetable glycerin. Neither of these substances poses the same risks as diethylene glycol. Find out more in our guide - What do PG and VG mean in E-Liquids?

Another common misconception is that secondhand vapour from e-cigarettes is as dangerous as secondhand smoke from traditional cigarettes. Numerous studies have shown that while secondhand vapour is not entirely harmless, it contains far fewer harmful chemicals than secondhand smoke, as detailed in this NHS article on The Dangers of Passive Smoking. The levels of nicotine and other toxicants in secondhand vapour are significantly lower, making it a less severe concern for bystanders. That being said, if you are vaping around others, always respect their personal space. Not everyone enjoys being engulfed in a cloud of vapour.

There is also a myth that e-cigarettes are a gateway to smoking for young people. While it's true that youth vaping rates have risen in recent years, the relationship between vaping and subsequent smoking is not as straightforward as some fear. Research by ASH has shown that the majority of regular e-cigarette users are former smokers who are using vaping as a means to quit smoking or reduce their cigarette consumption. Additionally, regulatory measures like age restrictions and banning certain flavours aim to limit youth access to e-cigarettes.

One myth that has gained traction is the idea that vaping can cause a condition called "popcorn lung." This concern arose from the presence of diacetyl, a flavouring chemical linked to bronchiolitis obliterans, also known as popcorn lung, in some early e-liquids. However, most reputable e-liquid manufacturers have removed diacetyl from their products. Furthermore, the levels of diacetyl found in the few e-liquids where it is present are far lower than those found in traditional cigarettes. Yet, there has been no significant increase in popcorn lung diagnoses among smokers. Cancer Research UK has explored the myth around vaping and popcorn lung in more detail - What are the facts about e-cigarettes and popcorn lung?

A frequently heard misconception is that flavoured e-liquids are more dangerous than unflavoured ones. In reality, for many people, flavoured e-liquids play a crucial role in making the switch from smoking to vaping. While some flavouring agents have raised concerns, most of the scrutiny has focused on specific chemicals rather than flavours as a whole. Reputable manufacturers now avoid these specific agents, and regulatory agencies often conduct reviews to ensure safety standards are met.

Another myth worth debunking is the belief that vaping doesn't aid in smoking cessation. Contrary to this belief, numerous studies indicate that e-cigarettes can be effective tools for quitting smoking. In a 2019 randomised control trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, e-cigarettes were found to be almost twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches and gum. Many smokers report that e-cigarettes help to manage their nicotine cravings and mimic the behavioral aspects of smoking, making it easier to transition away from tobacco.

Another myth is that vaping can lead to lung disease or infections. While the long-term effects of vaping are still being studied, there is currently no strong evidence to suggest that vaping causes lung disease at anywhere near the same rate as smoking. Cases of vaping-related lung injuries, such as those associated with the "vaping crisis" in 2019, were primarily linked to black market products containing vitamin E acetate—a thickening agent used in THC vapes. This highlights the importance of purchasing e-liquids from reputable sources to ensure safety.

Many believe that all e-liquids contain nicotine. While many do, there are plenty of nicotine-free options available. These are often used by former smokers who have weaned themselves off nicotine or by individuals who enjoy vaping but wish to avoid nicotine altogether. The availability of various nicotine strengths allows users to gradually reduce their nicotine intake, which can be a useful strategy for quitting altogether.

There is the myth that e-cigarettes are a target for new forms of addiction marketing. While the potential for misuse and marketing to non-smokers is a valid concern, increased regulation has targeted these practices. Advertising restrictions, flavour bans aimed at reducing youth appeal, and educational campaigns focus on limiting exposure to non-smokers and preventing e-cigarettes from becoming a new avenue for addiction. SmokeFree.Gov has created a vast range of resources to help ensure teens not only understand the risks of vaping, but also have the tools they need to help them quit. We expect to see more projects like this launched to help ensure that the younger generation is educated about the dangers of vaping over the coming year.

When exploring the myths about vaping, it is important to examine both sides of the coin. Some believe that because vaping is less harmful than smoking, it is entirely safe. This is a dangerous oversimplification. While vaping is certainly less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is not without risks. Non-smokers, particularly young people and pregnant women should avoid taking up vaping. A reduction in harm does not equate to something being completely safe, which is why responsible use is crucial. At Go Smoke Free, we encourage the use of vaping only as a smoking cessation tool.

While there are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding vaping and e-liquids, it is crucial to rely on scientific research and evidence to form a balanced understanding. Vaping is not without its risks, but it can be a valuable tool for harm reduction for current smokers. Understanding the true nature of these products and dismissing unfounded myths helps make informed decisions regarding their use. Both users and society benefit from informed discussions that consider both the potential benefits and risks associated with vaping.

At Go Smoke Free, we offer a huge range of fully regulated, genuine vaping products to suit your lifestyle and help you quit smoking. From disposable vapes to refillable vape kits, we have devices for all kinds of vapers. Our e-liquid collection is packed full of trusted e liquid brands, with everything from shortfill e-liquids, high PG liquids and high VG liquids to nic-salt liquids and nicotine free liquids to choose from.