Vaping has become a global trend, making it a hot topic filled with misconceptions and myths. To cut through the haze, we've prepared a deep-dive into the most common vaping myths debunked, using scientific evidence from trusted organisations like Public Health England and the World Health Organisation. We hope this guide helps clear the smoke surrounding e-cigarettes, vape juice, and more.

This is one of the most common vaping myths, suggesting that vaping products are more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. However, Public Health England states that vaping is up to 95% less harmful than cigarette smoke. It's true that e-cigarettes and vaping devices contain nicotine and other chemicals, but the absence of tar or carbon monoxide, which are present in harmful cigarette smoke, means vaping comes with fewer health risks.

E-cigarettes can be an effective tool to quit smoking. Research from Cancer Research UK shows that e-cigarettes, often combined with stop smoking service support, can be more successful than traditional methods like nicotine patches. This can make a big difference to the average smoker looking to quit.

Some believe that vaping acts as a gateway for young people, leading them to start smoking tobacco cigarettes. In reality, most e-cigarette users are transitioning smokers looking to quit, not non-smokers starting a new habit.

Most e-liquids used in vaping devices do contain nicotine, the addictive substance found in cigarettes. However, the amount of nicotine intake can be controlled by the user, and nicotine-free vape juice is also available.

Secondhand vape, or passive vaping, does not carry the same risks as secondhand smoke from tobacco products. While e-cig aerosols are not risk-free, containing some potentially harmful chemicals, the risk is much lower than passive smoking of traditional cigarettes.

From basic e-cigs to advanced, customizable vaping rigs with removable batteries, vaping devices come in all shapes and sizes. Vape products also vary in nicotine strength and vape juice flavours.

Among vaping myths debunked, the association of vaping with popcorn lung, a rare disease named for its association with a popcorn factory, is one of the most common. In fact, cases of popcorn lung among vapers are extremely rare. The ingredient of concern, diacetyl, which is associated with popcorn lung, has been largely phased out of e-liquids in many countries, including the UK.

1. Are there proven harms to vaping?

While vaping is not risk-free, it is generally accepted as a less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes. Some identified health risks include dependence due to nicotine and potential harm from other chemicals in vape juice. However, e-cigarettes do not produce tar or carbon monoxide, two of the most harmful elements in tobacco smoke.

2. What is the toxic truth about vaping?

While vape juice does contain some potentially harmful chemicals, such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and in some cases vitamin E acetate, they are typically present at much lower levels than in cigarette smoke. However, each person's reaction can vary, and further health research is needed.

3. What is scary about vaping facts?

One concern is that young people may be attracted to vaping due to the wide variety of e-liquid flavours, potentially leading to nicotine addiction. However, regulations like the UK's Tobacco and Related Products Regulations have been introduced to restrict marketing to young people.

4. Has vaping saved lives?

Vaping products have proven to be a useful tool for many people to quit smoking, thereby reducing their risk of smoking-related diseases. By switching from smoking cigarettes to vaping, it's estimated that thousands of premature deaths have been prevented.

By debunking these common vaping myths and looking at scientific evidence from trusted organizations like Public Health England, we hope to educate and inform, dispelling the misconceptions that often cloud discussions about vaping. Remember, while vaping can be a valuable tool to quit smoking, it should not be started unnecessarily, especially by non-smokers and young people.