E-liquids to avoid: ingredients to watch out for

Free from the 7,000 harmful substances found in traditional cigarettes, the electronic cigarette is today the healthiest alternative to tobacco. However, the quality and composition of e-liquids available on the market vary greatly. Some indeed contain ingredients that are best avoided to preserve your health. So, which e-liquids should you avoid? On the contrary, which e-liquids without toxic products should you favour? If you are looking for the best e-liquids, follow our guide and tips to choose the safest options!

E-liquids to avoid: the basics you need to know

The e-liquids to vape with your electronic cigarette are composed of:

• Propylene Glycol (PG)
• Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
• Flavourings
• Optionally, nicotine.

Propylene Glycol is a petrochemical-derived ingredient used in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. As for Vegetable Glycerin, it serves as a humectant to promote condensation. It is commonly used in cosmetics and in many pharmaceutical products. Both components are considered safe. However, be aware that Propylene Glycol (PG) may cause allergies, inflammation and irritation in the most sensitive individuals. It poses no danger, but this type of reaction can be uncomfortable.

What you need to watch out for most in the composition of your e-liquids is the addition of potentially harmful ingredients. These are implicated in the onset of adverse effects affecting the respiratory tract. The quality of flavourings and additives is paramount, as these elements release more volatile particles when heated.

Finally, it should not be forgotten that even if e-liquids are generally considered safer than traditional cigarettes, they are not entirely risk-free. Inhaling vapour containing chemical substances can still have effects on health. This is why it is recommended to vape in moderation and to choose quality e-liquids, free from potentially harmful ingredients.

Ingredients to ban from e-liquids

Several components found in certain e-liquids may pose a health risk. Here are the main ones to watch out for:

Diacetyl

Diacetyl is a popular and controversial flavouring agent used to give a rich, buttery taste to certain foods. Its use in the popcorn manufacturing sector led to the diagnosis of lung diseases in workers employed in these factories. The term "popcorn workers lung" is indeed used to describe obliterative or constrictive bronchiolitis.

Inhaling this product would destroy the bronchioles inside the lungs, causing a dry cough, breathing difficulties and shortness of breath. People affected by this disease suffer from a lack of oxygen that can lead to a form of exhaustion. Although it is banned in e-liquids in Europe, diacetyl can still be present in liquids from other parts of the world, particularly in indulgent-flavoured e-liquids. It is therefore crucial to check the origin of your e-liquids to avoid this dangerous compound.

If you are fans of popcorn e-liquids, go for risk-free options guaranteed diacetyl-free! Le Vapoteur Discount offers you the Pop Corn e-liquid from the One State range by E. Tasty and its caramelised popcorn flavour. Fans of sweet flavours will also enjoy the Pop Corn Caramel e-liquid by Ça Passe Crème! and its creamy touch.

Acetone

Acetone is a chemical product used in perfumery. When heated, it can transform into diacetyl and become potentially irritating to the respiratory tract. It has a very similar structure to diacetyl and is primarily used for its buttery notes. Furthermore, acetone is a powerful solvent that poses environmental risks and can contribute to the degradation of indoor air quality, which is why it is best avoided in e-liquids.

To enjoy buttery e-liquids without any health effects, head over to discover the Caramel Beurre Salé e-liquid by Les Bêtises Du Coq or the inimitable Le P'tit Beurre e-liquid by La Fabrique Française.

Acetyl propionyl

Acetyl propionyl is a flavour enhancer, just like diacetyl and acetone. It can be found in the composition of certain e-liquids with complex flavours and can pose risks when inhaled. Users may therefore develop respiratory problems. Acetyl propionyl is also suspected of being a risk factor for certain cardiovascular diseases.

Do you enjoy vaping complex e-liquids? No need to worry — Le Vapoteur Discount has selected highly crafted options guaranteed free from acetyl propionyl. Let yourself be tempted by the Même e-liquid by Swoke, blending red fruits and apple, or the Rendez-Vous e-liquid by Olala Vape, a classic e-liquid with floral aromas, additive-free and sucralose-free.

Paraben

Paraben is a preservative used in many products, particularly in cosmetics. It may be present in certain e-liquids and is suspected of being an endocrine disruptor that could increase the development of certain cancers. It is also associated with fertility disorders and hormonal imbalances. The use of paraben in vaping products should therefore be avoided.

To vape safely, opt for paraben-free e-liquids from the Curieux brand. Our favourites? The Cassiopée with mango, peach and a fresh twist.

Pulegone

Pulegone is a potential carcinogen banned as a food additive. However, the compound may be present in certain menthol- and mint-flavoured e-liquids. Inhaling this substance may increase health risks, hence the importance of choosing e-liquids without this ingredient. This substance is notably known to be a powerful irritant of the respiratory tract.

A fan of icy flavours? Try Le Vapoteur Discount's Menthe Polaire, Menthe Fraiche and Xtrem Fresh e-liquids with your eyes closed!

Dyes

Dyes are strictly unnecessary in e-liquids but can sometimes be included in their composition. They are banned in all e-liquids sold in France but may appear on the ingredient list of liquids manufactured abroad. Furthermore, some dyes can be allergenic or even toxic when inhaled. It is therefore preferable to favour e-liquids without dyes.

E-liquids to favour

Here are some examples of safe vape products containing no potentially harmful ingredients:

Vegetol e-liquids

Vegetol or vegetable monopropylene glycol is an ingredient that enables the manufacture of e-liquids without water or ethanol. As such, this ingredient drastically reduces the number of molecules inhaled. Moreover, being 100% plant-based, it is often well tolerated by people sensitive to propylene glycol (PG), thus reducing the risk of irritation and allergies. In addition to being better for health, vegetol is also eco-friendly. Its natural composition means it contributes only minimally to carbon dioxide emissions. Vegetol is also known for its ability to enhance flavour restitution, which is a significant advantage for fans of e-liquids with diverse flavours.

At Le Vapoteur Discount, discover a selection of over a hundred vegetol e-liquid references. Among our customers' favourites is the Silver Blend e-liquid from the Végétol By LiquidArom range, a dry blond classic, strong in taste and power. The entire LFR range is also developed with vegetol as its base, including the renowned Le Parrain e-liquid, which restores the classic flavour to its former glory. 

Please note that e-liquids with a vegetable base do not respond well to high heat; it is preferable to opt for low-wattage devices such as flat electronic cigarettes.

AFNOR-certified e-liquids

The AFNOR certification guarantees that you are buying a French e-liquid that has undergone rigorous control from production to packaging. This certification also ensures that the product complies with the strict quality and safety standards in force in France, thus offering complete transparency regarding its composition. AFNOR-certified e-liquids are therefore a safety guarantee for vapers, ensuring they are free from potentially harmful substances. Furthermore, this certification is a mark of quality, proving that the product has been manufactured in compliance with strict and rigorous standards.

Le Vapoteur Discount's e-liquid range is 100% AFNOR certified. For consumers, this guarantees vaping pharmaceutical-grade products free from carcinogenic substances, vegetable or mineral oils, dyes, sugars and sweeteners, and preservatives. Whether you prefer Bubble Gum or TB Corsé, vary your pleasures with complete peace of mind.

Nicotine-free e-liquids

Nicotine is the most addictive substance found in e-liquids. Opting for a nicotine-free e-liquid can help limit this dependency. It should be noted that a very high amount of nicotine can be dangerous for people with cardiac problems. For those hoping to find the least harmful e-liquid, we suggest choosing a low-nicotine e-liquid or a cheap nicotine-free e-liquid. This is a particularly suitable solution for vapers who wish to gradually reduce their nicotine consumption or eliminate it entirely.

For vapers who have successfully quit tobacco with a tobacco e-liquid, the unbeatable Mozambique e-liquid by Pulp is available in a 0 mg nicotine version, as are L'Intense by Roykin and the USA Menthe by D'lice.

Natural flavour and single-flavour e-liquids

E-liquids containing natural flavourings and single flavours release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during vaporisation than complex flavourings. Their composition minimises the inhalation of potentially irritating substances and is a safer option for health-conscious vapers. Furthermore, e-liquids with natural flavourings better preserve flavours, for a more authentic and enjoyable vaping experience. It is therefore recommended to favour these types of e-liquids for a quality, healthy and environmentally friendly vaping experience.

Single-flavour e-liquids don't necessarily mean boring: Alfaliquid is one of the pioneering vape brands that has developed an unprecedented range of flavours. Peach, Green Apple, Blackberry, Blackcurrant, Blood Orange or Cherry... You haven't finished making wonderful discoveries!

E-liquids to avoid: our tips for making the best choice

To choose a safe e-liquid, it is crucial to be informed and exercise good judgement. Here are the habits to adopt and the precautions to take to make your selection with complete peace of mind.

Buying from a recognised retailer

It is essential to purchase your e-liquids from an official and trusted retailer. E-liquids sold on the black market or by unofficial sellers may contain harmful ingredients and are not subject to rigorous quality controls. By choosing to buy from Le Vapoteur Discount, you ensure you obtain compliant, high-quality products with a fully transparent composition. Moreover, our teams are trained to advise you and help you make the best choice based on your preferences and needs.

Checking composition and origin

Before buying an e-liquid, it is essential to check its composition and origin. Avoid e-liquids containing potentially harmful ingredients such as diacetyl, paraben or propylene glycol. Prioritise e-liquids from reliable sources that comply with current regulations. Also make sure that the ingredients used are clearly listed on the packaging. By choosing an e-liquid manufactured in France, you have the guarantee of quality and compliance with French and European standards. Strict quality standards exist in France and in the European Union that guarantee the safety of the ingredients used. However, these standards may be less stringent in other countries, which can lead to the use of potentially harmful ingredients. Therefore, before buying an e-liquid, it is recommended to check its origin and ensure it complies with the quality standards in force in your country.

Favouring reputable and regulated brands

Opt for e-liquids from reputable and regulated brands, which are more likely to comply with quality and safety standards. In France, all e-liquid brands are subject to rigorous controls, which guarantees better safety for consumers. Do not hesitate to research the brand and read other users' reviews before making your choice.

Opting for certified e-liquids

Certified e-liquids are subject to rigorous testing and are a mark of quality. Choosing these products gives you additional assurance regarding their quality. For example, AFNOR-certified e-liquids comply with strict production and packaging standards, thus offering better transparency and traceability. Furthermore, they have been tested to guarantee their safety and compliance with health and safety standards. This is a wise choice for all those who are health-conscious and want to enjoy the vaping experience with complete confidence.