What is an Electronic Cigarette?

The electronic cigarette, also known as the e-cig, was first developed in China just a few years ago. It is widely popular in Europe and increasingly popular in the United States. 

An electronic cigarette is a handheld electronic device similar in size and shape to either a cigarette, ballpoint pen, or a screwdriver that utilizes a battery and atomizer to deliver nicotine to the user in the form of a vaporized solution of water, nicotine, glycerin or propylene glycol and flavoring. When the user puffs on the cigarette tip it activates the atomizer and the user inhales the vapor mixture and is able to exhale vapor resembling smoke. The process is referred to as vaping rather than smoking.

The size and shape you chose will depend on your personal preferences. Don't be surprised if your personal preferences change as you experiment with them. Initially, it was ideal to have the e-cig look and feel like a real cigarette. Later you'll be realizes the advantages to having it look like a pen or a screwdriver.

The Traditional Real Cigarette Look: This e-cig looks like a real cigarette. It is white with a golden brown filter and the tip glows red (via an L.E.D. light) when you puff the cigarette and the vapor released looks like real smoke. To anyone looking at you, they would assume you are smoking a regular cigarette. 

The Non-Traditional Real Cigarette Look: This e-cig looks like a real cigarette except for color and the L.E.D. light. This e-cig comes in various colors such as black or titanium and the L.E.D. light comes in colors such as blue, green or white.

The Pen Style Look: This e-cig looks like a ballpoint pen and has a tapered mouthpiece. These also come in either black or titanium and come with different color lights or sometimes no light at all.  As time goes by, more and more colors are becoming available.

The Screwdriver Look: This e-cig looks like a small screwdriver. This style utilizes a larger battery to increase the life of the e-cig between charges.  This type is often referred to as a "Mod".  The mods often use higher voltage. 

Advantages of Vaping over Smoking

• No tar, harmful toxins, or carbon monoxide as found in traditional cigarettes
• No more second-hand smoke to worry non-smokers around you
• No lighters needed, non-flammable
• No ashtrays needed, no ash or butts to dispose of
• No smoke, only vapor
• Allows you to get your nicotine fix in places smoking is not allowed, no more going outside to smoke
• Less expensive than traditional cigarettes
• Will hopefully allow cheaper insurance rates since you're no longer a tobacco user
• Improved health without the tar and toxins
• Improved self-esteem by losing the stigma of being a smoker, you're now a non-smoker
• No more burnt holes in carpet, clothing, sofas
• No more smokey-smelling clothes or hair
• Fresher breath