Many new users of electronic cigarettes wonder whether you should swallow the vape smoke and what is the best way to use these devices. It’s normal to have doubts since vaping is a whole new world full of possibilities and options. Below, we answer these questions and explain the different techniques for using these small electronic devices.
What is a vape?
A vape is an electronic device that generates vapor from special liquids containing nicotine, flavorings, or other substances such as THC or CBD extracts. It works by heating the liquid without combustion, which means it produces vapor instead of smoke, unlike traditional cigarettes. This feature has led many to view vaping as a less harmful alternative to tobacco, offering a wide variety of flavors and fewer usage restrictions. Vapes are gaining popularity among various consumers, with many turning to vaping as a way to quit smoking.
Since vaping is not the same as smoking, it’s common to have many questions about how to use these electronic cigarettes properly. The truth is that vaping requires technique and skill, and it’s worth learning how to do it correctly to enjoy a better experience.

One of the most common questions is whether you should swallow vape smoke. The answer is that you should not because the aerosols used in these devices are designed for inhalation, not ingestion. Swallowing the vapor may cause discomfort and nausea.
Electronic cigarette liquids are formulated with several main ingredients.
- Propylene Glycol (PG): A colorless, slightly sweet chemical that provides a throat hit similar to that of traditional cigarettes. It also carries the various flavors.
- Vegetable Glycerin (VG): A thick, sweet liquid responsible for producing the large vapor clouds that many vape users enjoy.
- Nicotine: In some cases, e-liquids may contain nicotine in various concentrations to help smokers gradually overcome their addiction.
- Flavorings: The flavors in e-liquids are achieved through various compounds, such as diacetyl.
- CBD: There are also CBD vape liquids that allow users to enjoy both the flavor and medicinal benefits of this compound.
The market offers an endless variety of vape liquids with different PG and VG ratios, with or without nicotine, and a wide range of flavors. Users can also create their own mixes. However, in no case should the vapor be swallowed, as it could irritate the digestive system.

Vaping techniques
There are several techniques for effective vaping. If you’re new to this world, the first step is to choose the right equipment. Pod systems are smaller and need to be refilled more often, while mods have larger tanks and longer-lasting batteries, making them ideal for frequent smokers. Disposable vapes are the most affordable and beginner-friendly option.
Some electronic cigarettes produce vapor automatically when you take a puff, while others require you to press a button to activate the device. These initial puffs are called “dry hits,” where you don’t yet fully experience the flavor or vapor production.
MTL technique
The MTL (mouth-to-lung) technique involves taking short puffs, similar to those used when smoking a traditional cigarette. The vapor is first held in the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs, allowing for a more intense flavor experience. This technique works best with e-liquids that have a higher PG concentration and requires a device with low airflow and power below 20 watts.
DL technique
The DL (direct-to-lung) technique involves taking long, deep inhales similar to using a hookah, allowing the vapor to go directly to the lungs. This method produces large vapor clouds but slightly reduces flavor intensity. Devices with power above 30 watts and e-liquids with a higher VG content are recommended.

Purge technique
The purge technique involves exhaling vapor through the nose after inhaling, allowing for a fuller appreciation of the e-liquid’s flavor notes.
Dry mouth technique
This technique involves holding the vapor in the mouth without inhaling it into the lungs or swallowing it. This method enhances the intensity of the flavor, making it ideal for flavor-rich e-liquids.
Cloud chasing
Cloud chasing is a vaping competition where users aim to create large, dense vapor clouds. It requires high-powered devices and e-liquids with a high VG content.
As you can see, none of these techniques involve swallowing the vape vapor. Instead, it is held in the mouth or lungs before being exhaled through the mouth or nose.
You can also control the airflow to adjust the amount of vapor you inhale with each puff, depending on your preferences. Additionally, some adjustable mods allow you to modify the settings to achieve a throat hit that many users seek. As you can see, vaping offers a wide range of possibilities to enhance the experience.

Tips for enjoying a good vaping experience
If you’re new to vaping, keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose high-quality liquids from trusted brands. Ensure they are made with certified ingredients and meet official safety standards.
- Experiment with different flavors and compounds, such as CBD e-liquids, which offer both flavor and relaxing effects thanks to cannabidiol.
- Monitor your consumption: While vaping is less harmful than smoking, it is not entirely risk-free.
- Try different electronic cigarettes until you find one that suits you best.
- Clean and disinfect your vape regularly to keep it functioning like new.
Now that you understand you shouldn’t swallow vape smoke, you can start enjoying your device safely. Always choose quality products and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.


