In this article, Le Vapoteur Français explains the term propylene glycol (PG) / Vegetable glycerin (VG) to help you distinguish between the different e-liquids for your e-cigarette. Our main goal is to help you find the right vape liquid, according to your preferences and your equipment.
As you may have noticed, the PG/VG ratio is a current value for any e-liquid. Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) are part of the composition of e-cigarette liquids. They can make up to 90% of an e-liquid blend. These two substances produce the vapor that creates the illusion of cigarette smoke, and they provide a feeling of “throat hit,” that is, the contraction in the throat when the vapor passes, which is more or less reminiscent of cigarettes.
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Remember this term “hit”, as it is mentioned throughout the article.
1. What is propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin?
Propylene glycol or PG
Propylene glycol is a non-toxic food compound, even with repeated and prolonged exposure. It is a water-attracting molecule found in the cosmetic, food, and medical industries. For example, if you take a breadcrumb with PG, it will remain soft for 5-6 days, while without PG it will only stay soft for 1-2 days.
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In the vaping field, PG produces a fine vapor at low temperatures. It retains flavor and perfectly reproduces taste. Mixed with nicotine, it is this component that promotes the “hit.” This sensation is generally sought after by people who start vaping because it gives the impression of smoking a real cigarette.
Vegetable glycerin or VG
Vegetable glycerin is a natural compound that is also used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It is this liquid that generates the vapor that comes out of the e-cigarette. Slightly sweet and fatty, its taste will add sweetness to your vape and reduce the spiciness of propylene glycol. However, the success is limited and the flavors are somewhat altered.
As you have understood, the PG/VG composition is one of the criteria to consider when choosing your vape liquid. Now, the question remains: what PG/VG ratio suits you?
2. How to choose the PG/VG ratio for your e-cigarette?
Each e-liquid has a more or less high percentage of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, each having specific properties. For this reason, the choice of the PG/VG percentage for your e-cigarette significantly impacts the sensation felt during vaping. It depends on both your previous cigarette consumption and the desired sensation.
In the world of vaping, the content of propylene glycol (PG) is always indicated before that of vegetable glycerin (VG). Therefore, if you hear about an 80/20 e-liquid, it means it contains 80% PG and 20% VG.
E-liquid with high PG content
This is a liquid e-liquid that provides a significant “throat hit” (contraction of the throat during inhalation) and a satisfying amount of vapor. It is an ideal e-liquid base for beginners who want to maintain the feeling of a classic cigarette.
Attention: A high dose of PG combined with a high nicotine content (over 12 mg) can cause throat tingling.
- 100% PG: very high throat hit and very little vapor
- 80% PG/20% VG: high throat hit and low vapor
- 70% PG/30% VG: a comfortable throat hit and higher vapor
E-liquid with balanced PG and VG content
This is a good compromise that provides the best of both components: good flavor return, appropriate throat hit, generous vapor, and low viscosity, which prevents rapid contamination of the material.
- 60% PG/40% VG: a slight throat hit but much more vapor
- 50% PG/50% VG: a perfect combination of a sweet hit and good vapor production
- 40% PG/60% VG: a very smooth hit and greater vapor
E-liquid with high VG content
This is a liquid e-liquid that produces a lot of vapor and perfectly simulates cigarette smoke. The vapor produced by VG is dense and dissolves slowly in the air. However, VG slightly distorts flavors (sweet taste) and the “hit” is limited. This e-liquid is suitable for “subohm” enthusiasts (looking for big clouds that vaporize with high wattage).
- 30% PG/70% VG: a very light hit and very good vapor
- 20% PG/80% VG: minimal hit and very dense vapor
- 10% PG/90% VG: very low hit and big smoke clouds
- 100% VG: almost nonexistent hit and big smoke clouds
In summary, if you prefer a “hit,” choose a relatively high propylene glycol content. However, if you want to reduce that throat sensation and have a slightly sweeter experience, promote a higher vegetable glycerin content.
A person starting with e-cigarettes tends to choose a ratio of 80/20 or 70/30 to replicate the feeling of conventional cigarettes. Gradually, as their throat and mouth adjust, the same person will reduce the PG level and choose a higher VG ratio to continue vaping without shame.
Attention: You cannot use an e-liquid with all models of e-cigarettes. Indeed, depending on the propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin, the vapor may or may not be compatible. The PG/VG ratio has a real influence on the choice of equipment.
How to choose an e-liquid based on your e-cigarette?
It is important to know your material and the type of e-liquid suitable for its use. In fact, most problems that arise with an e-cigarette come from a liquid that is inappropriate for the material and causes dry hits* and liquid leaks.
* Good to know: Dry hit corresponds to the absence of e-liquid in the clearomizer, which is poorly hydrated. For this reason, low liquid levels and high temperatures cause an unpleasant taste and a very strong sensation in the throat.
- With a simple clearomizer
Prioritize the use of liquid liquids (rich in PG) to ensure good cotton e-liquid supply is guaranteed. In fact, using thick liquids (more than 60% VG) will cause problems with “dry hits” (lack of e-liquid in the clearomizer), which will lead to faster deterioration of the material and the resulting vapor will be more unpleasant when inhaled.
- With a subohm clearomizer
Ideal for vaporizing thick liquids (rich in VG) without causing “dry hits.” The Subohm clearomizer is made of cotton, which can be easily soaked due to large openings. Thus, the vapor produced is high and the airflow is significant. Using liquid liquids (more than 60% PG) can trigger significant leaks.
- With a rebuildable atomizer
It is suitable for thick liquids (rich in VG) without the risk of “dry hits.” However, it is also possible to vaporize liquid liquids by adjusting the fitting and the amount of cotton.
If you hesitate to choose your PG/VG, feel free to contact us!
Tag: PG / VG