**** Disclaimer: Nicotine is a highly addictive and dangerous substance. The following is for general information purposes only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional.****
Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years. Lots of people enjoy the flavours and experience of vaping without the use of nicotine at all. However, it’s also chosen by many in an effort to quit traditional cigarettes and can involve the use of nicotine. In that case, you have probably come across products containing Freebase Nicotine or SaIt Nicotine. If you are wondering if it really matters which one you use, read on to find out more.
It’s important to understand the differences between the types of nicotine available for vaping. Not only do they interact with the body differently they also behave differently in your device as well. While both provide the same end result, there are some important key differences between the two. Let’s take a look at what they each are.
Freebase Nicotine
Freebase nicotine (regular nicotine) is usually created by extracting nicotine from tobacco leaves, then adding it to a base solution of VG and/or PG. See our post on the Difference between VG and PG for more information. This type of nicotine has a higher pH level, which gives it a stronger throat hit similar to that of a cigarette. This can cause a harsh burning sensation when vaped at higher concentrations. It burns best at higher wattage, making it ideal for larger devices.
Freebase nicotine is slower to absorb into the bloodstream, which means it takes longer to feel the effects of it. This can lead to a delayed craving satisfaction, which may cause some vapers to consume more e-juice than necessary. This sometimes results in a generally unpleasant physical feeling; not unlike having smoked too many cigarettes in a row. If you don’t require a higher nicotine concentration, this could be a good choice for you.
From “a pack a day” use: In general it can be said that a concentration of about 3-6mg would be sufficient depending on your device.
Salt Nicotine
Salt nicotine, also known as nicotine salts, is a newer type of nicotine that has gained popularity in recent years. It is also diluted within a base solution of VG and/or PG. It is created by adding a chemical to freebase nicotine, which lowers the pH level. Additionally, this makes it much smoother to vape with no throat hit. It is also absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream, which means the effects of the nicotine can be felt more quickly. This can reduce the amount vapers need to consume before feeling the nicotine.
Salt nicotine has no throat hit, which means it can be consumed in higher concentrations without the harsh flavour of freebase nicotine. Since the effects can be felt faster, this can be especially beneficial for those who are trying to quit smoking. It requires a lower burn wattage than regular nicotine, so smaller devices are a good choice for salt nicotine.
From “a pack a day” use: In general it can be said that a concentration of about 12-15mg would be sufficient.