One of the most common questions I get in the shop — especially from people switching from smoking — is:
"What’s actually in this stuff I’m inhaling?"
It’s a fair question, and honestly, one more people should ask. While disposable vapes don’t give much away, when you move to bottled e-liquid, you’ll see names like PG, VG, nic salts, and flavour concentrates all over the label.
If it all sounds a bit science-y or confusing, don’t worry. I’m going to break it down into plain English and help you understand exactly what goes into your e-liquid — and why it matters.
The Four Main Ingredients in E-Liquid
Most vape juice is made up of four key ingredients:
-
Propylene Glycol (PG)
-
Vegetable Glycerine (VG)
-
Flavourings
-
Nicotine (optional)
Let’s take a look at each one — and what they do.
🔬 1. Propylene Glycol (PG)
What it is:
A clear, odourless liquid that’s used in food, cosmetics, and medicines — even asthma inhalers.
What it does in e-liquid:
- Carries flavour very effectively
- Produces a stronger throat hit (similar to smoking)
- Is thinner than VG, so it soaks into coils quickly
High-PG e-liquids are ideal for:
- Mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping
- Pod kits or starter kits
- Nicotine salts and 50/50 juices
Example: Most nic salt juices (like Elfliq) are around 50% PG.
If you're after a cigarette-style hit, PG is your friend. It’s what gives that little kick at the back of your throat.
🌿 2. Vegetable Glycerine (VG)
What it is:
A thick, sweet, plant-based liquid. Found in food, skincare, and even pharmaceuticals.
What it does in e-liquid:
- Produces bigger vapour clouds
- Makes the vape smoother and less harsh
- Adds a slight sweetness to the flavour
High-VG e-liquids are perfect for:
- Sub-ohm vaping
- Direct-to-lung (DTL) devices
- Cloud chasers and dessert flavours
Example: Most shortfills like Soda King 100ml are 70/30 VG/PG.
When someone walks in asking for “something that chucks clouds,” I point them to high-VG shortfills every time.
🍓 3. Flavour Concentrates
What they are:
Food-grade flavourings that give your e-liquid its taste — whether it’s Blue Razz Ice, Rhubarb & Custard, or something tropical.
How they work:
These are carefully blended concentrates made to mimic everything from sweets to fruits, drinks, tobacco, and desserts.
All flavourings used in UK e-liquids are subject to strict safety regulations under TPD (Tobacco Products Directive).
Each brand has its own flavour formula. Some go big on sweetness, others aim for clean, balanced flavour. That’s why Elfliq tastes different from Bar Juice, even in the same flavour.
⚠️ 4. Nicotine (Optional)
What it is:
The addictive substance found in tobacco — but without the tar, carbon monoxide, or thousands of toxic chemicals found in cigarettes.
In e-liquid, it comes in two forms:
🔹 Freebase Nicotine
- Found in traditional juices (3mg, 6mg, 12mg)
- Gives a stronger throat hit
- Slower to absorb
🔸 Nicotine Salts
- Found in most disposable-style nic salts (10mg or 20mg)
- Smoother, faster-acting, ideal for heavy cravings
- Best used in low-wattage pod systems
You can also get 0mg liquids, or use shortfills where you add your own nic shots to reach your preferred strength.
One of my regulars mixes his own: 1 nic shot for 3mg, 2 shots for 6mg in a 100ml shortfill. It gives more flexibility without the harshness.
What About Sweeteners and Additives?
Some e-liquids also include:
- Sweeteners (like sucralose) to enhance flavour
- Cooling agents (like WS-23 or menthol) for that icy exhale
- Colourants – though most UK brands don’t use them, especially in TPD-compliant ranges
These extras can affect coil life — sweetened juices tend to gunk coils faster — but they’re safe when used properly and legally in the UK.
Why This All Matters
Understanding your e-liquid ingredients helps you:
- Pick the right juice for your device
- Avoid burnt coils or harsh throat hits
- Choose the right nicotine strength for your needs
- Make informed decisions about what you’re inhaling
I always say: vaping should be simple, but it’s still worth knowing what’s in your bottle. You’re in control now — and that’s a good thing.
E-liquid might seem mysterious at first, but once you know the basics — PG, VG, flavour, and nicotine — it all starts to make sense. Whether you’re chasing clouds, curbing cravings, or just looking for a smoother vape, the right combination is out there.
And if you're still unsure? Come see us in-store or drop a message — we’re always happy to help you decode your juice label and find something that suits your style.