In recent years, vaping has evolved into one of the most discussed topics. As per National Youth Tobacco Survey, over 2 million U.S. middle- and high-school students reported vaping. Some people feel it's a "safer" alternative to smoking, while others view it as harmful.
With so many opinions on the internet, some even "misleading," it's hard to know what's fact and what's fiction. If you’re someone who purchases vapes online in Canada, this article is here to bust ten common vape misconceptions and help you understand the real e-cigarette facts.
1. Vaping and Smoking Are the Same
A lot of people think that vaping is just as dangerous as smoking. That’s inaccurate. Traditional cigarettes burn tobacco, producing tar and thousands of other toxic chemicals. Vapes heat liquid to create vapor, so there’s no burning. When comparing vaping vs smoking, vaping generally exposes users to far fewer toxins.
While it’s not completely risk-free, most studies suggest that vaping is a significantly less harmful option for adult smokers. This highlights one of the benefits of vaping over smoking - harm reduction. Additionally, vaping can serve as an effective tool for those looking to quit smoking.
Many smokers have successfully reduced or completely replaced their cigarette use by switching to vaping, often using nicotine-containing e-liquids in gradually decreasing strengths. For adult smokers, switching to vaping for smokers is generally considered a significantly less harmful alternative than continuing to smoke traditional cigarettes.
2. Vaping Causes Popcorn Lung
This myth originated years ago when fumes from a chemical known as diacetyl were associated with a lung disease called "popcorn lung." Most of today's vape liquids here in Canada do not contain diacetyl. Reputable manufacturers adhere to safety standards, and diacetyl has been removed from e-liquids for years. There is no credible relationship between vaping and popcorn lung cases.
While vaping is not completely risk-free, the removal of harmful chemicals like diacetyl has made modern e-liquids much safer than early versions. Users who choose reputable brands and follow proper usage guidelines can significantly reduce potential vape health risks.
Vaping should still be approached responsibly, but the fear of developing popcorn lung from contemporary vape products is largely unfounded.
3. Vapes Always Contain Nicotine
It is important to note that not every vape liquid contains nicotine. Indeed, many individuals purchase vapes online made with nicotine-free e-liquids. They provide the same enjoyment of flavor and vapor experience without the risk of addiction, which makes vaping more attractive to people who enjoy the experience for its sensory aspect alone.
Nicotine-free vaping can also serve as a transitional option for those looking to gradually reduce their nicotine intake. By starting with lower or zero-nicotine e-liquids, users can enjoy the familiar hand-to-mouth routine and sensory experience of vaping while minimizing dependence. This flexibility makes vaping a customizable experience that can suit a variety of preferences and goals.
4. Vaping Is Only for Smokers Trying to Quit
Some people believe that vaping is exclusively for those with the intention to quit smoking. This is also not true. While many previous smokers do engage in vaping after quitting, many adults vape just for fun or relaxation. A wide range of adult users is interested in vaping for its flavors, variety of cloud tricks, and device customization.
Vaping has evolved into a hobby and lifestyle for many users, offering an element of creativity and personal expression. From experimenting with different e-liquid flavors to customizing devices and performing vapor tricks, it appeals to individuals who enjoy the experience itself rather than using it as a cessation tool. This versatility shows that vaping can cater to diverse interests beyond just quitting smoking.
Learn More: The Best Vaping Sets For Heavy Smokers
5. Vapes Explode Easily
Stories about vape batteries exploding raise concern. In most cases, these incidents occur due to improper use or due to the use of a defective charger, battery, or vape device. When used properly, or with the proper cable, a vape device is safe.
To further reduce the risk, users should follow manufacturer guidelines, avoid overcharging, and never use damaged batteries or incompatible chargers. Storing devices safely and keeping them away from extreme temperatures also helps prevent accidents. By taking these precautions, vaping remains a safe and manageable activity for most users.
6. Vaping Leads Teens to Smoke Cigarettes
This is an issue that troubles parents, but the evidence is unclear. Many young people who experiment with vaping never transition to smoking cigarettes. Teens try vaping for reasons other than being ready to smoke, often because of curiosity or flavors. In Canada, strict age restrictions for gaining access to vaping do help limit underage access.
Education and open conversations about vaping can also play a key role in preventing underage use. By informing teens about the potential risks and setting clear expectations, parents and educators can help young people make informed choices. Combined with regulatory measures, these efforts contribute to keeping vaping primarily an adult activity.
7. Secondhand Vape Smoke Is Just as Bad as Cigarette Smoke
The vapor produced by e-cigarettes is not comparable to cigarette smoke. When cigarettes burn, they emit toxic substances into the atmosphere that can persist for hours or longer. In contrast, vape vapor dissipates more quickly than cigarette smoke and contains fewer harmful chemicals. While it is courteous to avoid vaping around others, studies have shown that exposure to secondhand vapor is considerably less harmful than secondhand smoke.
8. Vaping Doesn’t Help People Quit Smoking
Many smokers have switched to vaping, reducing or completely stopping nicotine. The important thing is to find a comfortable level of nicotine, and then slowly decrease that level over time. Vaping can be an effective harm-reduction strategy when used properly.
It’s also important for users to have a plan and set realistic goals when using vaping to reduce nicotine intake. Tracking progress, being patient with gradual reductions, and seeking support from friends, family, or cessation programs can improve success. With a thoughtful approach, vaping can be a practical and manageable step toward lowering nicotine dependence.
9. All Vape Liquids Are the Same
Different vape liquids contain different ingredients, nicotine content, and flavor profiles. For instance, to produce a thicker vapor, many vape liquids contain some configuration of vegetable glycerin, and for a stronger flavor, many use propylene glycol, and combinations of these ingredients, too. Quality also varies by the manufacturer, of course. When you buy vapes online, make sure they are lab-tested and that there is an ingredient list.
10. Vaping Harms Everyone the Same Way
Vaping has different effects on individuals. While some feel throat irritation or a dry mouth from vaping, others may not. How a person feels when they vape can depend on the device, the type of e-liquid used, and how frequently someone vapes. Comparing the experiences of one person to someone else does not provide the complete picture. It is more useful to know how your own body will respond to vaping.
Final Thoughts
There is misinformation about vaping that is presented without any proof. Although vaping is not harmless, it is not the same as smoking and should not be grouped with smoking. Proper use, quality, reputable products, and the right information can make all the difference.
If you are considering using vaping products or transitioning from smoking to vaping, you will want to do thorough research. Search for reputable sources and reliable sellers that ship products to Canada. When purchasing vapes online in Canada, focus on sellers, brands, or organizations that support product transparency and follow applicable laws. This way, you have the important details of what you are consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vaping safer than smoking?
Vaping is not completely risk-free but e-cigarettes expose users to significantly fewer toxic chemicals than traditional cigarettes. However, vaping should still be approached responsibly and only with regulated, quality products from trusted online vape stores in Canada.
Can vaping help quit smoking?
Yes, many adult smokers have successfully used vaping as a harm-reduction tool. By gradually lowering nicotine levels in e-liquids, some users manage to reduce or even quit smoking altogether.
Do all vape juices contain nicotine?
Not all vape liquids contain nicotine. Many options are nicotine-free, offering the same vapor and flavor experience without the addictive element. This makes vaping customizable for those reducing nicotine intake or simply enjoying the sensory aspect.
Is secondhand vape smoke harmful?
Vape vapor is not the same as cigarette smoke. It contains fewer toxins and dissipates more quickly, though it’s still best to avoid vaping in enclosed spaces or around non-users.
