Vaping has grown incredibly popular among the youth, even though the sale of related products to people younger than 21 years old is illegal. As a parent, you must know what is best for your children. In this article, we will tackle everything that you and your teenager should know about quality vapes.
What Is It?
Vaping refers to the act of inhalation and exhalation of aerosol produced by electronic vapor devices upon heating liquid substances. JUUL is presently the most well-known brand of vapes, which is why it is sometimes called Juuling. Vapes are also called vape pens, tank systems, e-cigarettes, and electronic cigarettes.
What Is In It?
There are numerous different components, depending on the device, liquid, and/or pod used. Below are commonly found in vapes:
High nicotine levels
Vape products typically have nicotine doses of anywhere from 2 mg/ml to over 59 mg/ml. There are even companies participating in a so-called nicotine arms race, which involves raising the dose so that it exceeds those found in rivals and traditional cigarettes. Each pod of JUUL has a nicotine level of 59 mg/ml, equivalent to around a pack or two of cigarettes.
Flavoring
A lot of young people are enticed by the various flavors of vape products. They mask the taste of chemicals and nicotine from the e-liquid, so inhalation becomes easier and smoother. As usual, tobacco and menthol are the mainstays. However, there are also fun flavors, such as cotton candy, popcorn, and gummy bear.
The government has been cracking down on them, which has involved a ban on flavored refillable cartridges. The exceptions to the rule are tobacco and menthol. However, these regulations have pushed young people to disposable vapes with even more flavors and nicotine.
Marijuana and similar substances
More vape products now contain marijuana-derived ingredients. The list includes THC and CBD. The former refers to its psychoactive compound, while the latter offers anti-inflammatory properties and other medicinal benefits. Recently, new products that offer the inhalation of substances, such as vitamins and nutrients, have been introduced to the market as well.
Is It Bad for Teenagers?
These days, there is growing recognition that the inhalation of vapor may be an unhealthy and possibly dangerous habit. It is important to note that its effects are different from that of smoking traditional cigarettes.
Here are some of the most common health effects associated with vapes:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Mood swings
- Behavioral changes
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Vomiting
- Lung injury
- Poorer attention
- Worse impulse control
- Higher risk for stroke and heart attack
These are true for traditional vapes, although you should also be wary of flavoring and additional substances.
End Notes
Vapes have become popular among teenagers because they are discreet and viewed as cool. The delicious flavors and possibility of carrying out vape tricks also appeal to them. As a parent, you should let your children know about its potential harms and risks. We hope that this guide has helped you learn more about vaping!