VAPING

What we know so far about vaping

  • If you don’t smoke, don’t vape: as vaping is not risk-free.
  • Vaping is not recommended for children and never smokers.
  • However, vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking and can be a useful quit smoking tool.

Switching to vaping is the most popular way stop smoking in Wales.  Around 16% of the adult population have ever vaped (NSW 2022-23)  and around 6% vape daily (NSW 2021-22)

For the latest stats on vaping in Wales click here for our 2024 survey

The NHS say you’re roughly twice as likely to quit smoking if you use a nicotine vape compared with other nicotine replacement products, like patches or gum.

However you only get the full benefits of vaping if you stop smoking completely. Some people manage to make a full switch very quickly, while for others it can take a bit longer.

There are products to suit all types of smokers and you may find you need to try a few before you find the one that suits you best.

What are Vapes?

Vapes are battery operated devices filled with an e-liquid, or juice, which contains nicotine. The liquid is heated up by a coil in the e-cigarette then turns into a vapour which is inhaled. The nicotine is then absorbed into the lungs.

The ingredients inside the e-liquid include propylene glycol and glycerine which are usually used as food additives, water, nicotine and flavourings.

Unlike conventional cigarettes, vapes do  not burn tobacco and do not produce tar or carbon monoxide, two of the most damaging elements in tobacco smoke.

ecig-infographic-01

Why vape?

Vaping can be a highly effective way to quit smoking. Using a vape closely mimics the hand to mouth action of a conventional cigarette. The vapour that is inhaled contains nicotine so it satisfies cravings without the harmful effects of inhaling tobacco.

According to research commissioned by Public Health England, vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking.

How to find a vape shop

The Independent British Vape Trade Association represents responsible, ethical, independent vape businesses in the UK.  Visit their website to find your local vape shop.

What are my other quit smoking options?