What is e-liquid and what does it contain?

Chapter 3

What is e-liquid and what does a vape liquid contain?

An e-liquid or vape liquid is the mixture heated inside an electronic cigarette to generate aerosol. Its composition matters: not all liquids are the same, and manufacturer quality, traceability and the correct device make a real difference.

This content is intended for adult smokers. Nicotine-containing liquids are not intended for minors, non-smokers, pregnant women or users with medical concerns without first consulting a healthcare professional.

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1. What exactly is e-liquid?

An e-liquid, also called vape liquid, is the formula placed inside the cartridge, pod or tank of an electronic cigarette. When heated by a coil, it generates the aerosol that is inhaled.

A serious vape liquid is not an improvised mixture: it must be formulated with suitable ingredients, comply with applicable legal requirements, declare its composition and be used in the correct device. This matters: even a good liquid used incorrectly can give a poor experience, burnt taste, too much nicotine or irritation.

Direct idea

E-liquid should not be chosen by flavour alone. You need to look at composition, PG/VG ratio, nicotine type, strength and device compatibility.

2. Common components of a vape liquid

Not all liquids contain exactly the same ingredients. An e-liquid may contain a PG/VG base, flavourings, nicotine and, in some formulations, small amounts of water. The important point is that each ingredient has a clear function.

1. Propylene glycol (PG)

PG is a thinner carrier that helps transport flavour and gives a more pronounced throat hit. In vaping it is used because it dissolves flavourings well and produces a finer aerosol.

2. Vegetable glycerine (VG)

VG is thicker and adds more visible body to vapour. It also softens the throat sensation, but because it is thicker it requires coils and devices that can wick properly.

3. Nicotine

Nicotine is optional: there are liquids with and without nicotine. For adult smokers, choosing a suitable strength may help make the transition away from combustible tobacco more orderly. It is not intended for non-smokers.

4. Flavourings

Flavourings define the taste profile: tobacco, fruity, fresh, sweet or creamy. The fact that a flavouring is food-type does not automatically mean every inhalation use is valid; this is why manufacturer control and regulation matter.

5. Water in some formulas

Some formulations may include small amounts of water to adjust fluidity. It is not a universal or essential component in every liquid.

3. Understanding the PG / VG ratio

The PG/VG ratio affects fluidity, throat hit, vapour production and coil compatibility. Choosing the wrong ratio may cause leaking, burnt taste or poor wicking.

More propylene glycol (PG)

More defined flavour and a stronger throat hit.
Thinner liquid, common in pods and MTL draws.
Less visible vapour and more contained consumption.
May feel drier or more irritating for some sensitive users.

More vegetable glycerine (VG)

Denser and more abundant vapour.
Smoother, rounder throat sensation.
Thicker liquid: needs good wicking.
More suitable for lower-resistance coils and higher-power devices.

4. Freebase nicotine and nicotine salts

Nicotine in vaping is mainly found as traditional or freebase nicotine and as nicotine salts. The practical difference is the throat sensation, recommended device type and usual nicotine strength.

Freebase

Usually fits well in traditional liquids and moderate or medium power. At higher strengths, the throat hit tends to be more pronounced.

Nicotine salts

Usually provide a smoother draw at higher strengths and are mainly used in low-power pod systems. They are a common option for adult smokers looking for a transition closer to a tight cigarette-like draw.

Do not use nicotine salts in high-power or sub-ohm devices. Strength should match the device and the adult smoker’s profile.

WE DO NOT PLAY WITH YOUR HEALTH

We only sell e-liquids manufactured in Europe or the USA. Do not sacrifice your safety for a lower price.

A cheap liquid with no traceability, no clear manufacturer or insufficient composition information is not a smart purchase: it is an unnecessary risk. In vaping, liquid quality and correct device use matter.

Medical explanation of e-liquid components by Dr. Bueno (Medicina Clara).

Frequently asked questions about e-liquid

How do I choose my e-liquid?

If you are coming from tobacco, it makes sense to start with a suitable nicotine strength and a simple device. Tobacco flavours can help keep the experience familiar at first; later you can explore fruity, fresh, sweet or creamy profiles.

Why does my e-liquid change colour?

Nicotine and some flavourings may darken due to oxidation, light or temperature. A slight colour change can be normal, but if the liquid smells bad, tastes strange, is expired or has been poorly stored, it is better not to use it.

Why does it make me cough?

This can happen at first or when something is not properly adjusted: too much nicotine, excessive power, incorrect draw, dry coil or PG sensitivity. Check power, coil, PG/VG ratio and nicotine strength before blaming the liquid.

How can I save e-liquid?

Use higher-resistance coils, lower power and an MTL draw if you want more contained consumption. Simple pod systems usually use less liquid than high-power sub-ohm devices.

Can I make my own e-liquid?

Yes. This is called DIY mixing. You can buy bases and flavour concentrates separately and use nicotine shots or nicokits if you want to prepare your liquid with nicotine. Percentages, steeping time and final nicotine strength must be respected.

Sources and recommended reading

European Commission. Electronic cigarettes: safety and quality requirements. European Commission.
GOV.UK / MHRA. Advice on ingredients in nicotine-containing liquids in electronic cigarettes and refill containers. GOV.UK.
OHID. Nicotine vaping in England: 2022 evidence update. Official summary.

Questions about nicotine?

Go to Chapter 4: Nicotine in vaping