Nicotine salt e-liquids, commonly known as nic salts, have surged in popularity among vapers over the past few years. Offering a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine absorption, they have become a preferred alternative to traditional freebase nicotine e-liquids. Whether you are new to vaping or considering making the switch from freebase e-liquids, understanding how nic salts work and their potential benefits can help you make an informed decision.
What Are Nic Salt E-Liquids?
Nic salts refer to a type of e-liquid that uses a modified form of nicotine designed to provide a more satisfying experience with a gentler throat hit. Unlike traditional freebase nicotine e-liquids, which can be harsh at higher strengths, nic salts allow for higher nicotine concentrations without discomfort. This makes them a popular choice for those looking to curb cravings effectively while enjoying a smoother vaping experience.
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The Science Behind Nic Salts
Nicotine salts are created by combining freebase nicotine with a weak organic acid, such as benzoic, salicylic, or lactic acid. This chemical process lowers the pH level, resulting in a milder throat hit even at higher nicotine concentrations. Moreover, nic salts are absorbed into the bloodstream more rapidly, mimicking the effect of traditional cigarettes and helping users manage cravings more efficiently.
Nic Salt E-Liquids Vs. Freebase Nicotine E-Liquids
While both freebase nicotine and nic salts serve the same purpose, there are key differences between the two:
- Nicotine absorption: Nic salts provide faster nicotine absorption, delivering a quicker and more effective craving relief.
- Smoothness: Freebase nicotine has a higher alkalinity, leading to a harsher throat hit, whereas nic salts offer a smoother experience.
- Craving satisfaction: Due to their enhanced absorption rate, nic salts deliver a more prolonged nicotine effect, reducing the need for frequent vaping.
- Flavour intensity: Some freebase e-liquids may have stronger throat hits that can interfere with flavour, whereas nic salts maintain a balanced and enjoyable taste.
Quick Comparison
NIC SALTS | FREEBASE E-LIQUIDS |
Smooth throat hit at all strengths. | Increasingly intense throat hit – increases with strength of e-liquid. |
Extra concentrated flavours available. | Less intense flavour profiles. |
Higher nicotine strengths available (usually up to 50 mg). | Tapered nicotine strengths (usually up to 18 mg). |
Different Types Of Nic Salt E-Liquids
There are two primary categories of nic salts:
- Traditional nic salts: These provide a balanced nicotine hit with a moderate flavour intensity, similar to regular vape juice.
- Bar salts: Designed to mimic the intense flavours of disposable vapes, bar salts offer a double-concentrated taste experience for users seeking a bold and flavourful vape.
Nic Salt E-Liquids Vs. Nic Salt Shots
Nic salt e-liquids are ready-to-vape products containing a blend of PG, VG, nicotine salts, and flavourings. On the other hand, nic salt shots are nicotine boosters designed to be added to longfill e-liquids. These shots allow vapers to customise their nicotine strength while maintaining a preferred flavour profile.
Why Choose Nic Salts?
Nic salts offer several advantages that make them an appealing option for many vapers:
- Faster nicotine delivery: Due to their unique composition, nic salts provide a rapid nicotine hit, making them more effective at curbing cravings.
- Smoother inhale: The reduced pH level results in a less harsh throat hit, even at higher nicotine strengths.
- Long-lasting effect: Nic salts stay in the bloodstream longer, reducing the need for frequent vaping sessions.
- Enhanced flavour: Unlike freebase nicotine, nic salts do not interfere with the taste, allowing for a more enjoyable vaping experience.
- Compatible with most vape kits: With a balanced 50/50 PG-VG ratio, nic salts work well with a wide range of vaping devices, particularly low-wattage pod systems.
Are Nic Salts Right for You?
Nic salts may be ideal for individuals who:
- Are transitioning from smoking and require a high nicotine concentration without harshness.
- Seek a vaping experience that closely mimics traditional cigarettes.
- Experience difficulty managing cravings with freebase nicotine e-liquids.
- Prefer a smoother, less irritating throat hit while maintaining nicotine satisfaction.
- Want a more flavourful and consistent vaping experience without frequent refills.
Best Vape Kits For Nic Salts
While most vape kits can handle nic salts, some devices are specifically optimised for them. Pod systems, such as the Vaporesso XROS range, are excellent choices as they feature refillable pods with built-in coils, providing an easy and efficient vaping experience. These devices typically offer smart wattage adjustments, ensuring an optimal balance between flavour and vapour production.
Best Vape Coils For Nic Salts
For the best experience, nic salts should be used with coils rated between 0.8 Ω and 1.8 Ω. Lower-resistance coils (below 0.8 Ω) are typically designed for high-VG freebase e-liquids and can result in excessive nicotine intake when used with nic salts.
Common Misconceptions About Nic Salts
Despite their popularity, some misconceptions exist about nic salts:
- Nic salts are stronger and more addictive: While nic salts provide a faster nicotine hit, they are not inherently more addictive than freebase nicotine.
- Only heavy smokers should use nic salts: Although ideal for transitioning smokers, nic salts are also beneficial for casual vapers looking for a smoother experience.
- Nic salts produce more vapour: Since nic salts are typically used in lower-powered devices, they generate less vapour than high-VG freebase e-liquids.
How To Inhale Nic Salt Vapes
You may have heard the terms MTL and DTL used by vapers when describing their inhale style. There is also a newer style that has become more popular since the rise of disposable vapes called RDTL. We know this can all sound like jargon, however, understanding what these initials mean can give you an edge when working out how best to enjoy your nic salt e-liquids (or any vape juice for that matter!). We also have a full guide on this subject if you would like to learn more about mastering the perfect inhale.
What Is MTL Vaping?
MTL means mouth-to-lung and is the preferred way to inhale nic salt vape juices paired with an appropriate pod device. This is where you inhale, hold the vapour in your mouth before drawing it into the lung, and exhaling – similar to smoking a cigarette.
What Is DTL Vaping?
DTL stands for direct-to-lung and is more typical of high VG vapers, so less preferable when using nic salts. This is simply the act of drawing the vapour directly into the lung and exhaling in one motion.
What Is RDTL Vaping?
As pod devices have become more tailored to nic salt vaping, particularly those trying to capture the open draw typical of a disposable vape, some brands offer sub-ohm coils that are still designed for vaping with nic salts These are called RDL, which stands for restricted-direct-to-lung. This is where you inhale as if it were a DTL vape, but with less of an impact to reduce irritation at higher strengths – think of it as a middle ground. If you are a disposable vape user looking to switch to nic salts and refillable vapes, this could be the perfect option for you!
Nic salts have transformed the vaping landscape by offering a smoother, more satisfying alternative to traditional freebase nicotine e-liquids. Their ability to provide a rapid and prolonged nicotine hit, coupled with enhanced flavour and reduced throat irritation, makes them a top choice for many vapers. Whether you are new to vaping or seeking a more effective way to manage nicotine cravings, nic salts can be an excellent option to explore.