Is vaping better than smoking?

Vaping involves inhaling vapourised nicotine using a device known as an e-cigarette (also referred to as vapes or e-cigs). You may have noticed these devices becoming increasingly popular in recent years but are they really better than smoking? 

According to the NHS, vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes, this is supported by a report that Public Health England revealed, which found that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking cigarettes. This article will tell you all about how vapes work, how they compare to cigarettes and the benefits of switching to e-cigarettes.

How do e-cigarettes work? 

Firstly, we should clarify that using e-cigarettes and vaping are often confused as being different things, however, they are actually referring to the same action using the same devices. 

As mentioned, e-cigs have shot up in popularity in recent years, in fact, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reported that since 2012, the use of e-cigarettes among adults in the UK has risen from 700,000 to a whopping 3.6 million. The demand for e-cigarettes is likely to have increased for a host of reasons, but they are praised for their ability to help wean smokers off of cigarettes. So, how do they work?

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices which heat up ‘e-liquids’ containing nicotine and propylene glycol or glycerine. When these liquids are heated, they create a vapour which can be inhaled by the user. The vapour itself will taste very different to cigarettes because they do not contain tobacco and can be found in a variety of flavours to suit the preference of the user. 

It’s also worth noting that there are different types of vaping devices, these include:

• Cigalikes - these look just like cigarettes and there are both disposable and rechargeable versions available. 
• Mods - these are larger devices which can produce high vapour and last longer than other e-cigarettes, making them more suitable for those who vape frequently. They also feature various power settings and a refillable tank which makes them more cost effective.  

• Mini vapes/pod systems - These are incredibly compact and consist of a two part system of an e-liquid filled pod and battery. 

• Vape pens - named after their appearance, these resemble the shape and size of pens and are popular thanks to their simple design.

If you’re new to vaping or unsure of which type of vaping device would be right for you, you can always ask an approved specialised vaping store and to consider your options. 

For anyone who’s eligible, we’ll send you an e-cig starter pack in the post. Our Advisors and Coaches will help you switch to vape and become smoke-free. Why not give vaping a go and receive free support from us along the way? Learn more.

Vaping vs smoking

Both smoking and vaping pose risks to your health, but how do they compare? Here are some of the benefits of using vapes instead of cigarettes:

You can save money

How much do you spend on cigarettes each week? On average, a smoker in the UK with a twenty-a-day habit will spend roughly £65.80 a week, that’s £3,421.60 in a year! Carola used to smoke twenty cigarettes a day but now that she has switched to vaping, she now spends around £15 a week on e-cigs - this is a massive saving!

”To anyone thinking about switching to vape, I would say, do it! I’m saving a lot of money.”

As vapes come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, you can find affordable options that suit your budget but generally speaking, vaping will cost you less than cigarettes.

They’re less harmful

This is the best advantage of vaping. Whilst vaping is not recommended for non-smokers as their long-term effects are still unknown, Cancer Research highlights that e-cigs are less harmful than cigarettes with tobacco and so, offer smokers a less damaging alternative to satisfy their addiction. You can control your nicotine intake

You can control your nicotine intake

E-liquids are available in a variety of strengths, giving you control over how much nicotine you consume. This can also be an easier way of working your way down to lower levels of nicotine gradually.

You won’t have that ‘smoker’s smell’

The smell of smoke can be quite overpowering and you may have had family members or friends tell you that you smell in the past, leaving you feeling self-conscious. This is because the compounds (such as nicotine) from the smoke can linger in the air and on surfaces such as clothing. 

Vaping on the other hand, does not leave you smelling of smoke, in fact, the smell of vapes can be rather fruity and pleasant (or even odourless if that’s your preference). Essentially, switching to vaping can help you to build some confidence and you won’t be left worrying about bad breath!

They can be found in a variety of flavours

You can find e-liquids for vapes in a range of flavours, including various fruits, menthol and even beverages. People who are eligible to receive our vape starter kit can choose from nicotine, menthol and fruity flavours. 

Looking to stop smoking? 

If you live in Dorset and you’re looking for support to stop smoking, we’re here to help!

With our friendly team of advisors and coaches offering guidance each step of the way, you can learn how to smoke less and manage your cravings. Simply register or have a chat with us today to start your journey to become smoke-free. . Start stopping today.