Vape Juice 101: VG and PG Ratios
Most vapers would most likely look at three things in an e-cig juice: the flavor, the nicotine level, and the vegetable glycerin (VG)/ propylene glycol (PG) ratio. As a beginner, you can be stuck trying to figure out what VG/PG ratio means.
Read on and learn everything you need to know about VG and PG.
All e-juices have a base: VG, PG, or a combination of both. These ingredients are used as a base to mix the other ingredients. They can play a huge role in enriching the flavor, throat hit, and vapor production of an e-liquid. Both VG and PG are used as food additives, so they are safe for consumption.
Each of them has their unique characteristics, which will be discussed below.
Vegetable Glycerin
Consistency: This substance is thicker than PG. Its absorption rate is also slower for cartomizers and wicks.
Flavor: VG has a naturally sweet flavor, and its sweetness tends to alter other flavors in the blend.
Throat hit: You cannot expect a strong throat hit from MAX VG e-liquids (i.e., e-liquids that have a higher VG ratio).
Vapor: The throat hit may be weak, but VG is the best in terms of vapor production. Vape juices with a high VG ratio are smooth and produce immense clouds of vapor.
Device maintenance: Since it is thicker and sweeter, your vaporizer is prone to getting gunked up. Thus, maintenance checks and cleaning is necessary.
Shelf life: Its organic nature gives it a shorter shelf-life.
Allergy risk: Some vapers have complained of phlegm build up in their throats after using a MAX VG vape juice. Generally, VG cause less allergic reactions.
Who Should Vape 100% VG E-liquidS: Do not opt for a 100% VG e-liquid if you are is allergic to the substance. It is recommended for vapers who are into competitive cloud chasing.
Propylene Glycol
Consistency: This substance is thinner than VG. In fact, it has a runny consistency and can be easily absorbed by the cotton found inside cartomizers.
Flavor: PG is a tasteless substance. This means it will not alter the e-liquid’s flavor.
Throat hit: PG produces a stronger throat hit, which is why some vapers experience throat irritation from MAX PG vape liquids. Also, it also tends to dry your mouth.
Vapor: PG is temperature-resistant. You need a higher voltage to create a vapor. This sometimes leads to a burnt taste especially if the voltage gets too high.
Device maintenance: Since PG is low in density, it is less likely gunk up your vaporizer.
Shelf life: It is a non-toxic synthetic liquid, which means it contains non-natural ingredients. This also means its shelf-life is longer compared with VG.
Allergy risk: PG is known to cause some allergic reactions. The allergic reactions vary between a mild, tingling throat sensation to serious irritations all over the body.
Who Should Vape 100% PG: 100% PG vape juices are quickly becoming a thing of the past. It is recommended for vapers who want a strong throat hit.
A combination of the VG and PG is a trend these days. And here are the most common ratios.
- 70% VG and 30% PG — This is suitable for vapers who enjoy huge clouds but want a good throat hit at the same time. It is the best ratio for vapers who want to get the best of both worlds.
- 50% VG and 50% PG — If you are getting to know both VG and PG, this is a good place to start.
- 20% VG and 80% PG — You do not always see this ratio around. The mix gives you an increased vapor production and a mild throat hit.
- 60% VG and 40% PG — This ratio that produces great vapor and more flavor.
Conclusion
PG and VG work differently in an e-juice, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. For beginners, it is best to start with a 50/50 ratio before you try other combinations. Most experienced vapers use different VG/PG levels with various devices. You would have to do some experimentation to see what suits you best.
Leave a reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.