What are the best vapes to stop smoking?

Evidence shows that vapes are significantly safer than smoking. They are a great tool for smokers looking to quit tobacco and are substantially less harmful than smoking. Making the switch from smoking to vaping reduces your likelihood of developing cancer and other diseases significantly.

However, vapes are not without risks and it is not recommended that non-smokers take up vaping. It is a tool to help smokers during their quit attempt and to stay smoke free.

When it comes to choosing a vape, it is an individual choice. The most important decision is that smokers make the switch from smoking to vaping – as cigarettes will kill one person in London every hour. 

Smoking causes at least 15 different types of cancer. Smoking a cigarette releases thousands of toxic chemicals – at least 70 of these chemicals such as tar and arsenic – are cancer-causing [1].

How do I choose the best vape to quit smoking?

There are different types of vape available for people looking to quit smoking. Common devices include bars, pod devices, and vape pens as well as refillable and disposable vapes.

Smokers should obtain a vaping device either from their local stop smoking service or a reputable retailer. This is to ensure that the device, and its components, comply with UK regulation standards and manufacturer guidelines.

Do not buy vapes from backstreet sellers or from under the counter as they are likely to be counterfeit. Illicit vapes may have poor build quality and often contain toxic chemicals. Many unregulated devices are unsafe and can be anonymously reported to Trading Standards to be investigated.

Which e-liquid for my vape should I choose?

The e-liquid is a separate component of the vaping device. It contains flavourings, nicotine and other chemicals.

The most common types of vape liquid used by smokers looking to quit include:

Freebase nicotine

-      This is the purest form of nicotine used in e-liquids and is typically used by heavy smokers at the beginning of their switch from cigarettes to vaping.

Nicotine salts

-      This liquid includes nicotine typically taken from the tobacco leaf and bonded with benzoic acid. This formula is absorbed into the bloodstream quicker and usually provides a less intense sensation compared to freebase nicotine.

How much nicotine is right for me?

Smokers looking to switch to vaping need to match the strength of nicotine in their e-liquid to their current level of smoking. This will ensure that they receive sufficient nicotine – allowing management of cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 

A general guideline is to match the nicotine level in the e-liquid to the number of cigarettes typically smoked per day. 

For example, someone who smokes 20 cigarettes a day, might start with a higher nicotine concentration, such as 18 to 20 milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml). Lighter smokers may opt for lower nicotine strengths such as 3 to 6 mg/ml. 

Combining vaping with other NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) products such as patches or gum can also increase a smokers chances of quitting smoking. 

These aids provide smokers with a steady supply of nicotine while adjusting to vaping. They help to manage cravings and allow smokers on their quit journey to begin gradually reducing nicotine dependency.

Smokers should experiment with different devices and e-liquid to find what works best for them and seek additional advice from experts if needed.

Vaping and smoking are not the same.

While cigarettes contain tar and deadly toxins, vapes only produce vapour with nicotine and flavourings. Debbie Robson, Senior Lecturer in Tobacco Harm Reduction at King's College London, explains.

Should I seek expert advice before vaping?

When making the switch from smoking to vaping, always seek expert guidance from reputable retailers and your local stop smoking service.

Whether you’re unsure about which vape device to choose, need assistance in selecting the right e-liquid to match your nicotine needs or how to safely maintain your device, support is readily available.

Speak with others who have made the switch from vaping to smoking. Ask them about their experience, if anything helped during the switch and what they wish they knew before swapping.

Help is available for those seeking additional support with switching from smoking to vaping.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and expert guidance is available to support you every step of the way.

How do I stop vaping?

People who have previously smoked, have successfully switched to vaping and are now thinking about quitting vaping can consult their local stop smoking service, before doing so.

Following this, here are several tips that can help you quit vaping.

Begin reducing the strength of the nicotine in your e-liquid.
Increase the time between vaping.
Add limitations as to when and where you vape. For example, only vape when outside or during work breaks.
Be patient with the process. Do not rush to reduce the strength of your nicotine.
Contact your local stop smoking service immediately if you feel at risk of smoking.

Stop Smoking London can help you quit

There is no safe level of smoking – quitting completely is the best thing you can do for your health.

You are three times more likely to quit smoking for good when combining medication with expert support.

Quitting smoking can be hard but Stop Smoking London is here to help you. We have helped thousands of Londoners quit smoking for good and have a variety of helpful services and resources that work.

Find your nearest local stop smoking service.

Ring the free Stop Smoking London Helpline.

Access helpful guides, success stories from ex-smokers and free resources.