Propylene Glycol or as it is commonly referred to as PG is a frequently used term on the Next Day Vapes website and in the wider vaping community. But what is PG exactly? We go on to discuss everything you will need to know in this article.
What exactly is Propylene Glycol?
PG or Propylene Glycol is a by-product of petroleum. It is a synthetic, viscous, colourless, odour-free liquid with a slightly sweet flavour. PG is frequently mixed with VG (Vegetable Glycerine) in vaping, the two fluids when mixed create a wonderful suspension fluid for adding a range of flavour concentrates as well as nicotine shots. In vaping PG is used to deliver a “throat hit”, which is a similar sensation that smokers have when smoking tobacco.
What uses are there for PG?
Apart from being used in e-liquids for vaping, PG is also commonly used in cosmetics such as make-up and creams, as a food additive (PG extends the shelf life of foods), injectable medications, nicotine inhalers, personal hygiene products including baby wipes, pet foods (not cat food), shampoo and toothpaste as well as many other products.
Ingredients list for a vanilla flavouring which includes Propylene Glycol
Is PG safe to use?
As you can see from the above list, the use of PG is extensive – infact you are almost certainly consuming PG daily without knowing it! With such wide use of PG across so many industrial sectors (including medical and food) we are confident to say that PG is safe to use and unlike tobacco contains no cancer-causing carcinogens.
Don’t take our word for it only though, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says about PG:
“Propylene glycol is generally recognized as safe,”
which means that it is acceptable for use in flavourings, drugs, and cosmetics, and as a direct food additive.”
What are the benefits of high PG content in vaping?
The benefits of vaping with higher PG content e-liquids (typically 60% PG) when contrasted to higher VG mixes are listed below:
- Improved flavour – PG generally carries flavour a little better than VG, so flavours will be enhanced with higher PG levels
- Lower vapour – if you want to be more conspicuous or perhaps when vaping in public, PG is better. PG generates less vapour when exhaled, which is ideal in certain public settings in particular
- Throat hit – as mentioned previously PG delivers a sharp “throat hit”, which mimics tobacco. This is ideal for ex-smokers and those trying to give up smoking who crave this sensation in their vaping
What other factors are there to consider when using PG in vaping?
- Dry mouth and sore throats – particularly in the first few weeks of vaping symptoms such as a dry mouth and sore throats can arise. It is advisable to drink increased levels of water and other fluids in these early weeks of vaping
- Recently quit smoking – if you have recently quit smoking and are vaping for the first time, some symptoms you are experiencing are highly-likely to be smoking withdrawal-related rather than PG and vaping related
- Throat irritation – higher levels of PG (60%+) may irritate the throat. If this is the case, it is advisable to use a higher VG/lower PG blend such as 50/50 or maybe 60%VG/40%PG, or even 70%VG/30%PG. In the vast majority of cases, the levels of PG and VG will be clearly stated on the e-liquids you buy
The VG/PG% will be clearly labelled on vaping products, in this case, there is 30% PG
Where should I buy Propylene Glycol for vaping?
Always buy vaping e-liquids from a reputable dealer such as Next Day Vapes. Look for reviews from a website such as TrustPilot, which rates us at 4.6/5 (92%). It is easy to buy PG online from multiple sources, ensure any PG you buy is intended for use as an e-liquid.
Need advice?
If you need advice about the use of PG and the ideal mix for you why not email Next Day Vapes via our contact form. We will be glad to advise on our wide range of e-liquids and ones which may work well for you.
Image Credit: Open Food Facts
