Smoking rates are steadily decreasing here in the UK. While the reasons for this vary, experts believe that vaping may be a contributing factor, with nearly three million people using vape pens as a successful stop smoking tool. Yet, anyone researching vape usage may entirely miss this benefit due to the many myths that now exist about vaping in general.
For some reason, people seem endlessly sceptical of this new advancement. Yet, many of these vaping myths aren’t based on much fact at all. If you’re torn about your vape usage right now or have avoided quitting smoking for fear of what a vape might do, keep on reading to find out about the common vaping myths that give even the Greek Gods a run for their money.
# 1 – Vaping is as Bad as Smoking
While no one’s claiming that vaping is good for you, the idea that it’s as bad for you as smoking simply doesn’t hold any weight. There’s a growing body of evidence to suggest that vapes from reliable, UK-based sources are significantly better for users than cigarettes. This is because, while they contain nicotine, vape liquids are free from the most harmful smoking chemicals, such as tar and carbon monoxide.
Many sensationalist stories about vaping risks also refer to brands or vape flavours which contain other harmful chemicals such as diacetyl, which has been linked to a condition known as ‘popcorn lung’. However, diacetyl has been banned in the UK, meaning that this risk isn’t something you need to worry about when buying vapes locally.
# 2 – Vape Markets Aren’t Regulated
That leads us nicely onto myth #two – the long-standing idea that vape markets aren’t well regulated. There’s simply no truth to this claim, especially considering that the UK has some of the strictest vape and e-cigarette laws in the world. Reputable vape companies trading in this country must adhere to these regulations, which include the need to declare and visibly list all vape ingredients.
Vapes sold in the UK are also capped at 20mg nicotine concentrations and 2 ml e-liquid tanks. If a seller claims otherwise, they’re likely selling illegal vapes that are always best avoided. However, buying from a reliable UK seller can see you buying fully-regulated products at all times.
# 3 – Vaping Appeals to Young Users
The appeal of vaping for young people is widely discussed and can be off-putting for users who don’t want to set a bad example. In truth, though, this is not a cut-and-dry issue. While usage rates amongst young people are rising, surveys have previously highlighted that regular vape use is rare amongst this age group, and is generally restricted to those who have smoked in the past. Smoking amongst young people is also continuing to decrease, in large part because it’s less of a societal ‘norm’ thanks to tools like e-cigarettes and vapes.
It’s easy to get caught up in these vaping myths, but it might be worth questioning their truth before you let them stand between you and your no-smoking journey.
