E-liquids explained: what’s really in them?

If you vape, you’ve inhaled e-liquid — also called vape juice. But what exactly is in that little bottle? While most UK vapers focus on flavour or nicotine strength, understanding what makes up an e-liquid can help you make smarter, safer choices. Here’s the breakdown of the four main ingredients — and how they affect your body.

What is e-liquid made of?

A standard e-liquid typically contains four components:

• Propylene glycol (PG): carries flavour and gives a stronger throat hit.
• Vegetable glycerine (VG): creates dense, smooth vapor clouds.
• Flavourings: food-grade compounds that provide taste and aroma.
• Nicotine (optional): a stimulant and mildly addictive substance used to replace smoking.

1. Propylene glycol (PG)

PG is a colourless, odourless liquid that’s used in food, medicine, and cosmetics. It’s great at carrying flavours and creates that “throat hit” many ex-smokers crave.

• Feels like: sharp, punchy sensation when inhaled.
• Good for: people who want a strong hit and bold flavour.
• Watch out for: throat irritation or dry mouth if you’re sensitive.

2. Vegetable glycerine (VG)

VG is a thicker, slightly sweet liquid derived from plants. It’s what makes your vape clouds look like something out of a magic show.

• Feels like: smooth, cool, slightly sweet inhale.
• Good for: cloud chasers and those who prefer a gentler vape.
• Watch out for: gunked-up coils or reduced flavour intensity.

3. Flavourings

E-liquids get their personality from food-grade flavourings — anything from tobacco and mint to fruit, dessert, or drink profiles.

• Types used: same flavour molecules approved for foods and drinks.
• Regulation: UK limits certain additives to protect lung health.
• Watch out for: strong sweeteners can burn coils and affect taste over time.

4. Nicotine

This is the ingredient that satisfies cravings. In the UK, nicotine levels in e-liquids are capped at 20 mg/ml — but many vapers choose lower strengths or go completely nic-free.

• Options: freebase nicotine (stronger throat hit) or nicotine salts (smoother delivery).
• Addiction: yes, nicotine is addictive — but not nearly as harmful as the tar in cigarettes.
• Watch out for: dizziness or headaches if you use too high a strength.

How do these ingredients affect the body?

Compared to smoking, vaping eliminates tar, carbon monoxide, and many carcinogens. But it’s not “just air.” PG and VG are considered low-risk for healthy users, while nicotine’s effects depend on dose and delivery.

• Short-term: throat dryness, mild irritation, or lightheadedness.
• Long-term: current evidence shows far fewer risks than smoking, but research is ongoing.
• Important: buy from UK-regulated brands that meet safety standards and avoid DIY mixing unless experienced.

Final word: knowledge is power

Understanding what’s in your e-liquid isn’t just for geeks — it’s the key to customising your vape, reducing risk, and staying in control. Whether you want big clouds, bold flavour, or a smoother quit, your e-liquid blend makes all the difference.

Explore trusted e-liquids

Ready to upgrade your vape? Check out our full range of UK-tested e-liquids and nicotine salts — crafted for flavour, performance, and peace of mind.