Elfliq: The Official Elf Bar Liquid - 10ml E-Liquid Nicotine Salt

Nicotine salts, often referred to as "nic salts," are a form of nicotine found naturally in tobacco leaves. Unlike freebase nicotine, which is extracted and treated for use in traditional e-liquids, nicotine salts remain in their natural state and are chemically bonded to an acid. This bond allows nicotine salts to deliver a smoother vaping experience, even at higher concentrations.

The creation of nicotine salts for vaping involves combining pure nicotine (freebase nicotine) with organic acids, such as benzoic acid. This process reduces the pH of the nicotine solution, resulting in a less harsh throat hit compared to traditional nicotine e-liquids.

• Stability: Nicotine salts are more chemically stable than freebase nicotine, meaning they degrade less quickly over time.
• Absorption: The acidic environment facilitates rapid absorption of nicotine into the bloodstream, mimicking the efficiency of nicotine delivery from smoking traditional cigarettes.

Freebase nicotine is pure nicotine that has been "freed" from its salt form. It is alkaline, with a high pH, and produces a harsher throat hit as the nicotine concentration increases. Nicotine salts, on the other hand, are combined with an acid to lower their pH, resulting in a smoother experience.

One of the most significant differences is the sensation during inhalation:

• Freebase Nicotine: Often results in a harsher throat hit, particularly at high concentrations, which can deter some users from increasing their nicotine intake.
• Nicotine Salts: Provide a much smoother throat hit, even at higher strengths, making them more palatable for users transitioning from cigarettes or those who require higher nicotine doses.

Nicotine salts are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly than freebase nicotine due to their chemical structure. A 2015 study by Pax Labs demonstrated that nicotine salts closely mimic the nicotine delivery efficiency of cigarettes, providing a faster and more satisfying nicotine hit.

• Freebase Nicotine: Best suited for sub-ohm devices or high-wattage vaping setups, which produce larger vapour clouds but consume more liquid.
• Nicotine Salts: Optimised for low-wattage, pod-based systems that use less liquid while delivering high nicotine concentrations effectively.

Nicotine salts offer a range of benefits, making them a popular choice for certain vapers:

The lower pH of nicotine salts makes them smoother on the throat. This is particularly advantageous for former smokers or beginners who may find freebase nicotine too harsh.

Nicotine salts allow users to vape higher nicotine strengths without the unpleasant throat irritation associated with freebase nicotine. For example, a 20 mg/ml nic salt liquid feels less harsh than a similar freebase nicotine product.

The rapid absorption rate of nicotine salts closely resembles the nicotine hit from a traditional cigarette, making them an ideal option for those transitioning from smoking. Studies suggest that this quick uptake can help curb cravings more effectively.

Nicotine salts are often used in compact, low-wattage pod systems. These devices are discreet, portable, and consume less e-liquid, offering convenience and cost efficiency.

Due to their chemical stability, nicotine salts have a longer shelf life compared to freebase nicotine, reducing the risk of degradation and maintaining flavour quality over time.