If you’re new to vaping, you might have come across the terms VG and PG. Fear not, this isn't some secret code exclusive to the experienced vaping community - it simply stands for Vegetable Glycerin and Propylene Glycol. Still have no idea what these mean? Don't worry - they sound more complex than they actually are! Read on to learn more.
All About That Base
Vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol are two of the key ingredients which provide the base for e-liquids. Combined with flavouring and often nicotine and distilled water, they make the juice what it is and allow it to be successfully transformed into yummy vapour for you to inhale!
Many e-liquids have equal amounts of VG and PG in their content, but this balance can be adjusted depending on your individual preference.
Spot the Difference
Both PG and VG are odourless, colourless substances found in many common food and personal care products, like soap, and are generally regarded as safe. However, the two ingredients have different consistencies, as well as a slightly different tastes. This means they produce their own distinctive mouth and throat sensation when inhaled. We’ve drawn up the differences below for you to compare!
PG
VG
Petroleum by-product
Natural chemical derived from plant oil
Slightly higher risk of allergic reaction than with VG
Natural – less likely to cause allergic reaction
Provides a stronger “throat hit” similar to a traditional cigarette
Provides a smoother hit
Carries flavour more effectively
Slightly sweeter than PG
Thinner than VG – will not clog your vaping device
Thicker than PG – gives denser sensation to the liquid and produces larger clouds but can clog atomiser
PG vs. VG
If you enjoy a sharper throat hit, for instance if you want to simulate the sensation of smoking as closely as possible, you’ll probably want a higher PG liquid. PG also carries flavour a little better than VG and produces less vapour, ideal if you want to be less conspicuous when vaping in public.
If a smoother delivery is important to you, higher VG may be more suitable. It produces a thicker cloud which feels slightly heavier in the mouth, as well as enabling denser, larger clouds of vapour. If you’re interested in cloud-chasing, the activity which involves competing to create impressive plumes of vapour, definitely favour VG over PG.
If none of this means that much to you then best go for a 50/50 PG/VG liquid – the best of both worlds! Have a browse of the e-liquids available at Vape Mountain now and discover your preferred blend!