Burnt vape hits are a common issue faced by vapers, and it often raises questions, especially about nicotine. When your vape delivers a burnt taste, you may wonder whether you’re still inhaling nicotine and if continuing to use a burnt vape poses any health risks. In this article, we’ll explore whether burnt vapes still contain nicotine, the health implications of using burnt vapes, and how you can prevent this from happening.

Does a Burnt Vape Still Contain Nicotine?

Yes, even when a vape tastes burnt, it can still contain nicotine. Nicotine is a component of the e-liquid, and a burnt taste doesn’t negate its presence. However, the vaping experience is severely compromised, and burnt hits can make it difficult to inhale the vapor properly, potentially affecting how much nicotine you absorb. While the burnt taste comes from a damaged coil or overheated e-liquid, the nicotine content remains unless the liquid has completely evaporated​.

The Dangers of Using Burnt Vapes

The health risks associated with vaping a burnt coil extend beyond a bad taste. When you take a hit from a burnt vape, you expose yourself to harmful chemicals that can be produced by overheated e-liquids and damaged coils. Compounds such as formaldehyde can be released when the e-liquid is burnt, which has been linked to respiratory issues and long-term health concerns​. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals may weaken your immune system, leading to more frequent infections and longer recovery times​.

Furthermore, burnt vape hits can irritate your throat and lungs, causing discomfort and coughing. The vapor produced from a burnt coil can be acerbic, leading to a less satisfying and potentially harmful vaping session​.

Causes of Burnt Vape Hits

Several factors contribute to a vape tasting burnt, the most common being the coil and wicking material. Here are some potential causes:

  1. Dry Hits: These occur when the coil heats up without enough e-liquid, leading to a burnt taste. Keeping your tank full and ensuring the coil is properly primed before use can prevent dry hits​.
  2. Incorrect Wattage: Vaping at too high a wattage can cause the coil to overheat, burning the wick and producing a burnt taste. Always check the recommended wattage range for your device.
  3. Old or Damaged Coils: Over time, coils can degrade or get clogged with e-liquid residue, making them prone to burning. Regularly replacing your coils can help maintain a clean and smooth vaping experience​.
  4. PG/VG Imbalance: E-liquids with a high VG (vegetable glycerin) content are thicker and may not wick into the coil as efficiently, leading to dry hits. Balancing your PG (propylene glycol) and VG ratios is essential for avoiding burnt hits.

How to Prevent Burnt Hits

Preventing burnt hits requires a combination of proper maintenance and understanding your vape’s limits:

  • Priming the Coil: Before using a new coil, add a few drops of e-liquid directly to the cotton wick to ensure it’s saturated before firing up your vape.
  • Use the Right Wattage: Stick to the wattage range recommended by the manufacturer to avoid overheating the coil.
  • Regular Coil Replacement: Coils degrade over time. Regular replacement, based on your vaping frequency, can prevent burnt hits from becoming a regular issue​.
  • Monitor E-Liquid Levels: Always ensure that your e-liquid levels are sufficient to keep the wick saturated and prevent dry hits​.

Healthier Alternatives

To minimize the chances of experiencing burnt hits, consider switching to e-liquids that are less sweetened, as they tend to leave less residue on the coil. Additionally, using a lower-wattage device with coil-friendly e-liquids can extend the life of your vape and prevent the unpleasant burnt taste.

Conclusion

Burnt vapes not only compromise the flavor and nicotine delivery but also pose serious health risks due to the release of harmful chemicals. Although nicotine is still present in a burnt vape, the overall vaping experience is significantly diminished. To protect your health and enjoy a smoother vaping experience, regularly replace your coils, monitor your e-liquid levels, and ensure proper wattage settings. By taking these steps, you can avoid the frustrations and dangers of burnt hits while continuing to vape safely.