Vaping has grown into a popular alternative to traditional smoking, attracting millions worldwide with its variety of flavors and reduced health risks. However, for those new to the experience, understanding how to hit a vape effectively can make all the difference between a satisfying inhale and a harsh, uncomfortable one. This guide walks you through the essentials of vaping, tackling common hurdles like the dreaded vape cough and offering insights into how vaping compares to smoking traditional cigarettes.
Understanding the Basics of Vaping
Before diving into how to hit a vape, it’s important to understand the components of a vape device. Most vapes consist of a battery, a coil, a tank or pod for the e-liquid, and a mouthpiece. These elements work together to heat the e-liquid into vapor, which you inhale. The two main styles of vaping are:
- Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): Similar to smoking a cigarette, you draw vapor into your mouth before inhaling it into your lungs.
- Direct-to-Lung (DTL): You inhale the vapor straight into your lungs, delivering a more intense flavor and vapor cloud.
Knowing your preferred style will guide your choice of device and help you avoid issues like vape cough.
Step-by-Step: How to Hit a Vape
- Prime Your Device: Before using a new vape or coil, add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the coil to saturate it. This prevents dry hits and burnt flavors.
- Adjust Your Settings: If your device has variable wattage, start at the lower end of the recommended range for your coil. Gradually increase it to find your sweet spot.
- Take a Slow, Controlled Draw: Place your lips around the mouthpiece, creating a seal. Draw slowly and steadily to allow the vapor to form properly. For MTL users, hold the vapor in your mouth briefly before inhaling. For DTL users, inhale directly into your lungs.
- Exhale Gently: Blow out the vapor in a controlled manner to enjoy the flavor and avoid irritation.
Avoiding Vape Cough
Many beginners experience vape cough when they first start. This can be caused by inhaling too quickly, using a high-nicotine e-liquid, or simply adjusting to the sensation of vapor versus smoke. To reduce the risk:
- Opt for a lower nicotine strength if you’re sensitive to throat hits.
- Take shorter puffs and avoid inhaling too forcefully.
- Experiment with e-liquids that have a higher VG (vegetable glycerin) content for smoother vapor.
Comparing Vaping to Smoking
One common question among new vapers is: how many vape puffs is one cigarette? The answer depends on the nicotine concentration and your vaping habits. On average, 15–20 puffs from a vape containing 12 mg/ml nicotine may approximate the nicotine delivery of one cigarette. However, vaping offers more control, allowing users to tailor their experience.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to hit a vape properly enhances your experience while minimizing discomfort. Whether you’re transitioning from smoking or exploring vaping as a hobby, understanding the nuances—from avoiding vape cough to knowing how many vape puffs is one cigarette—can ensure a smoother journey. Embrace the art of vaping and find the balance that works best for you!
