Whether you’re new to vaping or just curious about what you’re inhaling, understanding the ingredients in your e-liquid (also called vape juice) is essential. At its core, vape juice contains just a few ingredients, each playing a specific role in delivering flavor, vapor, and satisfaction. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s in your e-liquid, how each component works, and what to look for in a high-quality formula.
The 4 Main Ingredients in E-Liquid
1. Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
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What it is: A thick, odorless liquid derived from vegetable oils.
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Why it's used: VG is responsible for creating big, dense clouds of vapor. It has a slightly sweet taste and provides a smoother inhale.
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Common ratio: E-liquids with high VG (like 70/30 VG/PG) are popular among cloud chasers and sub-ohm vapers.
2. Propylene Glycol (PG)
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What it is: A thin, flavorless liquid commonly found in food and pharmaceuticals.
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Why it's used: PG carries flavor more effectively than VG and provides a stronger “throat hit,” which some ex-smokers prefer.
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Common ratio: A 50/50 PG/VG blend is ideal for balanced flavor and vapor production.
3. Nicotine (Optional)
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What it is: The addictive stimulant found in tobacco, available in different strengths.
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Why it's used: Nicotine gives the satisfying “buzz” and throat hit many vapers want. E-liquids range from 0mg (nicotine-free) to high strengths like 50mg (often in nicotine salts).
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Types of nicotine:
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Freebase nicotine – traditional form, better for sub-ohm vaping.
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Nicotine salts – smoother and more concentrated, better for pod systems.
4. Flavorings
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What it is: Food-grade flavor concentrates used to create everything from fruity to dessert to menthol flavors.
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Why it's used: Flavor is what makes vaping enjoyable. The best brands use clean, lab-tested ingredients without unnecessary additives.
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Pro tip: Look for brands that disclose their flavor sources and avoid sweeteners that gunk up coils.
What’s Not Supposed to Be in Your E-Liquid
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No Vitamin E Acetate – this additive, most commonly found in some black market THC vapes, is harmful when inhaled.
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No Diacetyl – a buttery flavoring linked to lung issues; reputable brands avoid it.
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No Harmful Fillers – quality e-liquids don’t use oils, thickeners, or unknown substances.
Why Ingredient Transparency Matters
Not all e-liquids are created equal. Choosing a vape brand that’s transparent about what’s in their juice helps you:
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Avoid harmful additives
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Ensure consistent quality
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Get a better vape experience
Know What You’re Vaping
Understanding what’s in your vape juice helps you make informed choices about what you inhale. The best e-liquids are simple, clean, and focused on quality—not gimmicks. Whether you’re cloud-chasing or just looking for a satisfying throat hit, it all starts with what’s in the bottle. Check out our collab with Skwezed for a high quality, tested and true selection of e-liquids with every Blankers bundle.
FAQ: What’s in E-Liquid?
Does vape juice contain oil?
No. Vape juice should never contain oil. Ingredients like VG and PG are water-soluble and safe for inhalation, unlike oils.
What is VG/PG in vape juice?
VG (Vegetable Glycerin) produces vapor, while PG (Propylene Glycol) enhances flavor and throat hit. Most e-liquids are a mix of both.
Is nicotine always in e-liquid?
No. You can choose nicotine-free vape juice or select from a variety of nicotine strengths to suit your preference.
Are flavorings in vape juice safe?
Reputable brands use food-grade, lab-tested flavorings. Avoid unknown brands or products without ingredient transparency.
What should I avoid in e-liquid ingredients?
Avoid e-liquids that list oils, vitamin E acetate, or diacetyl. Stick to trusted brands that disclose what’s in their products.