Nicotine salts are a type of e-liquid that is gaining popularity among vapers. They are made by combining pure nicotine with certain types of acids, resulting in a more stable and smooth-hitting e-liquid.
One of the main differences between nicotine salts and traditional, or "freebase," nicotine e-liquids is the pH level. Freebase nicotine has a higher pH level, which can make it harsh on the throat when vaped at high concentrations. Nicotine salts, on the other hand, have a lower pH level and are smoother on the throat, even at high concentrations. This makes nicotine salts a good option for smokers who are trying to switch to vaping and want a more similar experience to smoking.
Another difference between the two is the absorption rate. Nicotine salts are absorbed by the body more quickly than freebase nicotine, which can provide a faster and more satisfying nicotine hit. However, this can also make nicotine salts more addictive, as the body becomes accustomed to the higher levels of nicotine more quickly.
There are also some drawbacks to using nicotine salts. One is that they are not compatible with all types of vaping devices. They are best used in low-wattage, mouth-to-lung devices or pod devices, as higher wattage of sub-ohm devices can cause the nicotine levels to be too high. Additionally, because nicotine salts are smoother on the throat, it can be easier to inhale higher concentrations without realising it, which can be a bad combination.
In terms of overall pros and cons, it really comes down to personal preference and what you are looking for in an e-liquid. Freebase nicotine e-liquids may be a good option for those who want a strong throat hit and are not as concerned about the absorption rate. On the other hand, nicotine salts may be a better option for those who want a smoother hit and are trying to switch from smoking to vaping. It's important to be aware of the potential risks and to use caution when vaping, regardless of the type of e-liquid being used.