What Electronic Cigarettes Contain
Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, rely on e-liquids vaporized to deliver aerosols. Primary components include:
- Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) as base liquids for vapor production
- Nicotine, an addictive stimulant
- Synthetic or natural flavorings for taste enhancement
- Contaminants introduced during manufacturing or heating processes
Harmful Ingredients Fast Discovery
When e-liquids are heated, they generate numerous toxic substances identified by research:
- Formaldehyde: Classified as carcinogenic, forms at high coil temperatures from PG/VG decomposition
- Acetaldehyde: Irritant linked to respiratory inflammation, asthma exacerbation, and DNA damage
- Diacetyl and related compounds: Present in butter-flavored additives, associated with bronchiolitis obliterans (popcorn lung)
- Heavy metals: Including lead and cadmium, leached from device coils into aerosols
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Such as benzene, contributing to oxidative stress and cancer risk
- Nicotine derivatives: Including nitrosamines, potential carcinogens
Regular exposure may increase risks of lung disease, cardiovascular issues, and dependence, necessitating caution.
