What Are Nicotine Salts?

The word on the street is that nic salts are the next big thing in the world of vaping, and if you haven't tried them already, you're missing out. There might be some truth in that, but nicotine salts are more than just another try-and-forget trend out there. Vapers and smokers are flocking towards this new phenomenon, and there's a good reason for that. If you're not sure what all the fuss is about, or even if you've already tried nic salts but have no idea what they are, this article is here to shed some light on one of the hottest topics right now.

What Exactly Are Nicotine Salts?

To put it simply, nic salts are derived from the natural nicotine salts found in tobacco plants, and aim to replicate the same nicotine hit that is provided by smoking a cigarette, as nic salts are absorbed into your bloodstream at a much faster rate than what you're probably familiar with. For a slightly more scientific explanation, it's important to understand two basic terms: pH and alkalinity.

Most e-liquids are made with what is known as freebase nicotine, which has a higher pH, leading to increased alkalinity. If you've ever vaped before, you're probably well aware that increasing the nicotine content comes with a harsh throat hit that causes you to vape a smaller amount than if you were to vape with an e-liquid that is lower in nicotine. This unpleasant throat hit is actually caused by nothing else but alkalinity. Benzoic acid, found in nicotine salts, lowers the pH levels of nicotine, reduces its alkalinity, and leads to a much smoother vaping experience. 

Nicotine Salts vs. Freebase Nicotine

Now that we've gone over the basics, what you're probably most interested in is how all of this will affect your vaping experience. As mentioned, one of the major differences between freebase nicotine and nic salts is the harshness induced by higher nicotine levels.

Yet it's the second difference that causes smokers and former smokers to fall head over heels with this new vaping phenomenon. Nicotine salts are absorbed into the body easier and quicker than when vaping regular nicotine liquid. They are highly soluble in fat and water, and thus more rapidly absorbed in the lungs, providing an instantly satisfying flavour when inhaling. Freebase nicotine affects the e-liquid's overall flavour, while salts have next to no effect in this area, giving you a more flavourful, enjoyable and richer vaping experience.

Absorption of nicotine salt compared to other nicotine products

Who Should Consider Using Nic Salts?

Nicotine salts come with a range of benefits, including higher nicotine levels, smoother taste, longer shelf life and a user-friendly device. This makes them perfect for both experienced vapers and complete newbies, but you should definitely consider switching to nicotine salts if you:

• Want to find an alternative to smoking cigarettes
• Have already tried vaping but didn't like it
• Want to start vaping but don't know where to start
• Are a seasoned vaper looking for higher nicotine levels and an experience closer to smoking
• Want to get more bang for your money

Where Can I Try Nicotine Salts?

One of their many benefits includes using a small and discreet device that is easy to use even by beginners. A basic rule you should stick to when choosing your device for nic salt is that you should avoid using high-powered devices, or sub-ohms.

Devices used for vaping nic salts are not only low profile and sleek, but usually also auto fire, which means you only get vapour when you inhale it. We realise that when starting out, all this information might be a bit daunting, which is why we've come up with a few suggestions to point you in the right direction.

If you don't have the right device, or would like to upgrade, we recommend the MyBlu Starter Kit, which includes a MyBly device with a USB charger for immediate use. Some of our favourite refills made with nicotine salt include MyBlu Intense Tobacco, MyBlu Intense Strawberry Mint, MyBlu Intense Menthol and MyBlu Intense Blueberry.

At VapeMountain.com, we're always interested in what our customers have to say. If you'd like to share your experience with the myblu vaping system or have a question, please feel free to let us know in the comments below or find us on Facebook or Twitter!