10 Benefits Of Vaping vs Smoking

1. Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
2. Lower Health Risks
3. Control Over Nicotine Intake
4. No Lingering Odour
5. Greater Flavour Variety
6. Greater Life Expectancy
7. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
8. Vaping Indoors and Public Places
9. Less Social Stigma
10. Innovation and Customisation
11. Pros and Cons
12. Conclusion

There are many questions asked about the comparison and any similarities between vaping and smoking. Some electronic e-cigarettes may look the same, and the habit seems familiar with a puff and inhale action with both, but is the method where the comparison ends? Does it benefit a vaper to quit smoking and switch to e-cigarettes?

In recent years, vaping has emerged as a popular alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. This shift has sparked a lot of discussions about the benefits of vaping compared to smoking, among not just smokers, but also medical professionals, government officials and the media.

There are harmful emissions from both vapes, whether they contain nicotine or not, and of course cigarettes, which we have seen from years of medical research, plus the well-known fact it is the highest preventable cause of death worldwide each year.

If you are looking to find clear, comprehensive information about the benefits of adults vaping instead of smoking, this is the right place. Let's explore ten benefits of vaping over smoking.

1. Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

One of the most significant advantages of vaping is the reduced exposure to harmful chemicals compared to smoking. Studies from Cancer Research UK highlight that there are over 5000 dangerous and sometimes unknown chemicals (many are poisonous) found in each cigarette. Seventy of these are attributed to the form of cancer.

There are thousands of chemicals in cigarettes, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. In contrast, e-cigarettes have far fewer chemicals and, most importantly, do not produce carbon monoxide or tar.

As limited research exists on the chemicals in vape e-liquids, it is not known for sure how many are dangerous. However, we do know e-liquids are primarily composed of nicotine, flavourings, and a base of Propylene Glycol or Vegetable Glycerine (both are used in the production of food and medicinal products).

If you have never smoked, it is advised to never vape either, as any chemicals inhaled into the lungs can be harmful. The plan should be for any adult who has started vaping to quit smoking to stop that too.

2. Lower Health Risks

Switching from smoking to vaping can lead to lower health risks. Studies have shown that vaping is less harmful than smoking due to the absence of combustion and the reduced presence of harmful substances.

Early research shows that blood vessel health can improve following one month of the switch, according to the British Heart Foundation. And lung function could improve by up to 10% after you quit smoking thanks to the removal of tobacco, per NHS studies. Chances of stroke, heart disease and various forms of cancer also decrease once you give up smoking.

But also bear in mind that vaping is not the cure – merely a suggested alternative by various organisations. It still contains nicotine which can elevate the heart rate, and increase anxiety through cravings.

If you can, try NRT’s such as nicotine gum or patches first. Other symptoms you may see when you reduce the risk of dangerous health from smoking are clearer skin, reduced stress and anxiety (contrary to popular belief) and improved fertility.

Once you stop smoking, blood circulation and oxygen levels will improve, leading to a better chance of reducing fatigue, greater energy levels and less stress.

3. Control Over Nicotine Intake

What is good about vapes vs cigarettes is it allows users to have more control over their nicotine intake.

E-liquids come in various nicotine strengths, going as low down as zero, allowing individuals to choose the level that best suits their needs and previous cigarette habits.

This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to gradually reduce their nicotine consumption over time. As medical professionals advise not to go cold turkey but to cut out cigarettes, the gradual nature of nicotine which can be reduced with vaping could be seen as a benefit.

How much nicotine is in each vape and the level it compares to one cigarette depends on the milligram of strength. Other contributing factors include how big a puff you take, how deeply you inhale and overall lung capacity.

4. No Lingering Odour

One of the most noticeable benefits of vaping is the lack of lingering odour. While it is true that the puff of fruity e-liquids can be unpleasant for non-vapers, there is no comparison to the smell of traditional smoking.

Cigarettes produce a strong, persistent smell that clings to clothing, hair, and surroundings longer after the smoke disappears. In contrast, the vapour produced by e-cigarettes dissipates quickly, leaving no lasting odour on clothes or hair and in vehicles.

In addition, with vaping vs smoking, you will begin to regain your sense of smell and taste as the olfactory senses come back after you put down cigarettes. Breathing will also be easier as your bronchial tubes start to relax as early as 72 hours after your last cigarette.

5. Greater Flavour Variety

Vaping offers a wide variety of flavours, meaning you are no longer restricted to just tobacco. For some, it is great you still have the option of tobacco and menthol when vaping, but there are also thousands of fruit, dessert, and beverage flavours.

There is an e-liquid to suit every taste bud and preference. This variety is a major factor behind the successful switch for many users. As your taste and smell improve within just one week after that last cigarette, the range of flavour sensations will come flooding back.

6. Greater Life Expectancy

Although smoking can significantly reduce life expectancy, with half of long-term smokers sadly dying from diseases relating to cigarettes, sometimes this is not enough incentive. With smoking, it is expected that people who quit smoking by the age of 30 add an extra 10 years to their lives. And even those who quit after the age of 60 can expect at least three additional years compared to if they carried on smoking.

You will not only live longer but those around you will as they will not be subject to dangerous second-hand smoke. While no studies to date have shown vaping can cause danger from passive vapour, and it is believed there is reduced risk vs smoking, it will take multiple generations of research to know for sure.

Vaping is generally more discreet and convenient than smoking. E-cigarettes produce less visible vapour compared to the smoke from traditional cigarettes, making it easier to vape without drawing attention. Additionally, many vaping devices are compact and portable, allowing for use in various settings.

7. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, the recent good news is the UK Labour Government has only added a flat rate of £2.20 per 2ml of e-liquid containing nicotine. Because there is an additional rise in tax on tobacco products such as cigarettes, the price of cigarettes remains considerably higher than a vape kit.

And particularly if you opt for a refillable and reusable device and e-liquid kit, this means more savings and the chance to reduce your nicotine levels. E-liquids and replacement coils are generally less expensive than the cumulative cost of cigarettes, providing savings for regular users.

8. Vaping Indoors and Public Places

There are no rules in place at the time of writing to ban vaping indoors in a similar situation to cigarettes. However, it is at the discretion of the establishment, so you may or may not need to step outside to vape.

All public enclosed spaces in Scotland since 2006 plus England, Northern Ireland and Wales since 2007 have banned smoking, but the Labour government recently lifted the smoking ban in outdoor pub and garden spaces.

But a vape comes in handy because you can get your nicotine fix in multiple places where it’s not possible to smoke. Just ask before you hit the fire button or auto-inhale to be courteous!

9. Less Social Stigma

Smoking has become increasingly stigmatised in many societies, with smoking bans and negative public perceptions. Vaping, on the other hand, is often viewed more favourably and may face fewer social restrictions.

This can make it a more acceptable alternative for those looking to quit smoking. Nevertheless, also bear in mind that because nicotine is found in both cigarettes and vapes, a stigma can still exist that vaping is just as bad as smoking, which is a misconception.

10. Innovation and Customisation

Finally, the last benefit of vaping against smoking is the pure convenience and level of customisation, made possible through vape brand innovation. The vaping industry is continually evolving, with new technologies and devices regularly entering the market.

This innovation allows users to customise their vaping experience to suit their preferences, whether it's through adjustable power settings, temperature control, or different coil types.

Such options can enhance satisfaction and retention for those switching from smoking to vaping.

Pros and Cons of Vaping With and Without Nicotine

While there are numerous benefits to vaping compared to smoking, it's important to consider the potential downsides. Vaping is not entirely risk-free, and its long-term health effects are still being studied. However, for individuals seeking an alternative to smoking, the advantages often outweigh the drawbacks, as we have summarised below:

• Fewer toxins from vaping vs smoking
• No passive smoke to impact loved ones or colleagues
• More cost-effective
• Greater customisation and control over flavour, nicotine strength and experience
• The smell lingers for less time and is better tolerated by non-smokers and non-vapers

And when you consider you can also vape without nicotine, which should be the final stage before quitting, it gives a former smoker a greater chance of success.

Conclusion

Within minutes, the health benefits when you put down the cigarette begin to kick in. After seven days, there will be noticeable benefits and money saved. And after a few months, you will begin to see significant change. As all medical professionals say, it is never too late to quit!

Vaping properly offers several benefits over smoking, including reduced exposure to harmful chemicals, lower health risks, and the ability to control nicotine intake.

Additionally, vaping is more discreet, cost-effective, and socially acceptable, making it a viable option for those looking to quit smoking.

By understanding these benefits, you can make informed decisions and pass on the knowledge to others exploring vaping as an alternative to smoking and thinking of quitting.

But remember while there are clear benefits of quitting smoking, cigarettes for e-cigarettes should be a short-term solution with the goal that you can quit both and move away from inhaling substances and nicotine.