Vaping vs Smoking: What Are The Risks?
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Time to read 4 min
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When it comes to nicotine, both vaping and smoking have attracted significant attention for their health implications. However, understanding their differences is essential, especially when evaluating which is safer. Check out this quick read on vaping vs smoking for more.
Table of Content
Traditional cigarettes are undeniably harmful. When lit, they release thousands of chemicals, many of which are highly toxic—about 70 of these are known to cause cancer. Tar and carbon monoxide, two of the most dangerous substances in cigarette smoke, are significant contributors to serious health issues such as cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke.
Vaping involves inhaling vapour produced by heating a liquid, which usually contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Unlike smoking, vaping does not involve combustion, meaning it doesn't release tar or carbon monoxide—the two substances most responsible for the severe health risks linked to smoking according to the NHS.
A 2022 review of international evidence, cited by the NHS, concluded that vaping, in the short and medium term, poses only a small fraction of the risks associated with smoking. This suggests that for smokers who switch entirely to vaping, exposure to harmful toxins is significantly reduced.
While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, it is not completely without risks. The long-term effects of vaping are still being studied, and it remains essential to be cautious, especially for non-smokers. Nicotine, whether consumed through smoking or vaping, is an addictive substance and not harmless.
A study by Brighton and Sussex Medical School found that young adults who perceived vaping as less harmful than smoking were more likely to switch to vaping six years later. Researchers highlighted that "misperceptions" about vaping deter many smokers from making the switch. While vaping is not risk-free, evidence indicates it is significantly less harmful than smoking and can aid in quitting. However, 85% of English adults who smoked in 2024 either overestimated vaping risks or were unaware of its relative safety compared to smoking.
Cancer Research UK emphasized that legal e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco or many toxic chemicals found in cigarettes, though their long-term effects remain unknown. They noted harmful side effects, such as throat irritation and headaches, but stated there is no solid evidence linking vaping to cancer.
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Below we highlight some of the key ingredients in both cigarettes and eliquids. These ingredients are some of the key things to consider when debating vaping vs smoking. The difference is massive and helps highlight how making the switch to vaping is much better for your overall health. Cigarettes take the lead with over 7000 different chemicals when burned vs the 4-5 ingredients used when making eliquid. Eliquid for vaping is made up of , vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, nicotine (optional), and flavourings.
| Category | Cigarettes | E-Liquids |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Tobacco, paper, and filters | Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), Nicotine (optional), Flavourings |
| Chemicals | Over 7,000 chemicals when burned, including tar, carbon monoxide, arsenic, benzene, and at least 69 known carcinogens (e.g., formaldehyde, cadmium) | Fewer chemicals, primarily PG, VG, and food-grade flavourings. |
| Additives | Ammonia, acetone, and other toxic substances | Optional sweeteners and enhancers, some of which may pose risks |
Cigarettes: Tobacco, paper, and filters.
E-Liquids: Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerine (VG), Nicotine (optional), flavourings.
Cigarettes: Over 7,000 chemicals when burned, including tar, carbon monoxide, arsenic, benzene, and at least 69 known carcinogens (e.g., formaldehyde, cadmium).
E-Liquids: Fewer chemicals, primarily PG, VG, and food-grade flavourings.
Cigarettes: Ammonia, acetone, and other toxic substances.
E-Liquids: Optional sweeteners and enhancers, some of which may pose risks.
At Evolution Vaping, we’ve made it simple to find products tailored to your vaping experience. Each hardware product is tagged with a 'Vaper Level' helping beginners, intermediate users, and experts choose the best options. Explore our vaper level page to learn more and see our top picks for every level.
Beginner kits often make vaping simple, enjoyable and low maintenance. With features such as:
Beginner kits are simple and affordable. Just fill the pod with an eliquid of your choice and push the pod into the device. After allowing the liquid to soak for at least 5 minutes you're ready to go! Inhale on the mouthpiece and enjoy! Some kits even come with pre filled pods!
😅Feeling lost? Jump on our live chat for answers to any questions you have about vaping. Alternatively check out our beginners guide to vaping for a full run down of everything vaping related!
Vaping vs smoking: Who wins? Is vaping safer than smoking? Yes, it is considered safer, particularly for those making the transition from smoking. The ultimate goal for better health should be to quit both smoking and vaping altogether.
If you are a smoker looking to quit, reaching out to local healthcare resources or programs, such as those supported by the NHS, can provide guidance and support on your journey to a smoke-free life. If you’re convinced vaping will give you the best chance at quitting smoking for good, start your journey with us today! We offer a huge range of refillable compact vape kits that simulate the smoking sensation you need. If you have any questions feel free to give us a call or jump on our live chat.
A 2015 independent review conducted by Public Health England found vaping to be up to 95% less harmful than traditional smoking.
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