What to expect as a first time vaper? A comprehensive guide

According to user surveys, many individuals transitioning from smoking to vaping experience an initial adjustment period that can include mild, temporary side effects. For those asking what to expect as a first time vaper, it is important to understand that the sensation is distinctly different from smoking, requiring a new inhaling technique and some patience.

Quick Summary

As a first-time vaper, you can anticipate an initial period of adjustment involving a new inhale technique, a different mouthfeel, and potential temporary coughing or dryness before settling into a preferred device and flavor.

Key Points

• Initial Coughing is Normal: Your body needs time to adjust to the sensation of inhaling vapor, which differs from smoke.

• Start Simple: For beginners, pod systems or simple vape pens offer the best balance of ease of use and performance.

• Hydrate: E-liquid ingredients can cause dry mouth and throat, so keep water handy to stay hydrated.

• Practice the Technique: Use a Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) technique, which is similar to smoking, for a smoother transition.

• Be Patient with Nicotine: It takes time to find the right nicotine level and for your body to adapt. Don't start too high.

• Clean and Maintain: Regular cleaning and coil replacement are essential for preventing issues like burnt taste and leaks.

The Initial Experience: More Than Just Vapor

When you take your first puff, the sensation will be different from smoking. The vapor, which is produced by heating a liquid, feels 'thicker' or 'wetter' than smoke. This is the primary reason why many new vapers experience an initial cough. This is a common, temporary reaction as your lungs and throat adjust to a new form of inhalation. The vapor is also rich with the flavor of the e-liquid, a stark contrast to the burnt tobacco taste.

Common Physical Sensations

• Coughing: A natural reflex to the new sensation of vapor entering the lungs. With a few slow and steady puffs, this should subside.
• Dry Mouth and Throat: Both propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), common e-liquid ingredients, are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture. Staying hydrated by drinking water is key to mitigating this effect.
• Dizziness or Nausea: Especially for ex-smokers, it's possible to consume too much nicotine too quickly, leading to a 'nicotine buzz' that can feel like dizziness or a mild headache. If this happens, take a break from vaping and consider a lower nicotine strength.

Choosing Your First Vape Device

Navigating the world of vape devices can be overwhelming for a newcomer. The key is to start simple and find a device that suits your needs without requiring an engineering degree to operate. The most popular choices for beginners are disposable vapes, pod systems, and vape pens.

Comparison of Beginner Vape Devices

Feature	Disposable Vape	Pod System	Vape Pen
Ease of Use	Extremely easy (no setup)	Very easy (snap-in pods)	Simple (single button/charge)
Maintenance	None (throw away after use)	Very low (replace pods/coils)	Low (refill tank, change coil)
Cost	Low initial cost, high long-term	Moderate upfront, lower long-term	Moderate upfront, very low long-term
Portability	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Flavor Variety	Limited to pre-filled options	Wide variety (refillable pods)	Wide variety (refillable tanks)

Mastering the Technique

There are two main vaping styles: Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL). For first-time vapers, especially those coming from cigarettes, the MTL technique is the recommended starting point as it mimics the smoking process more closely.

How to Perform a Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Inhale

1. Draw: Take a slow, steady puff into your mouth, as if you were drawing through a straw.
2. Hold: Hold the vapor in your mouth for a second or two.
3. Inhale: Open your mouth and inhale the vapor into your lungs.
4. Exhale: Release the vapor.

Why MTL is Best for Beginners

This technique uses lower power and higher resistance coils, which create less vapor and provide a stronger 'throat hit'—the feeling of the vapor in your throat—that smokers are familiar with. Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping, which involves a deep, direct inhale, is typically for more experienced users with advanced, high-powered devices.

Avoiding Common Beginner Mistakes

Many new vapers give up because of easily avoidable errors. By being mindful of a few key points, you can significantly improve your experience.

Common Pitfalls and Solutions

1. Chain Vaping: Taking too many puffs in quick succession can overheat the coil and produce a burnt taste. Space out your puffs to give the device time to cool and the e-liquid time to re-saturate the wick.
2. Using High Nicotine Levels: If you feel dizzy or nauseous, your nicotine strength may be too high. Start with a moderate level and adjust downward if necessary.
3. Ignoring the Manual: Reading the instructions for your specific device is crucial for proper setup and maintenance. It will prevent leaks, burnt hits, and other frustrations.
4. Buying the Wrong E-Liquid: Ensure your e-liquid's PG/VG ratio is appropriate for your device. Higher PG liquids are thinner and work well with starter kits, while higher VG liquids are thicker and for advanced devices.

Vaping Etiquette and Safety

Vaping responsibly involves being considerate of those around you and following safety protocols. This is particularly important as regulations regarding vaping continue to evolve.

Responsible Vaping Practices

• Ask Permission: Always ask before vaping in someone's home, car, or a shared public space.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Avoid blowing large clouds of vapor in crowded areas or towards others. Be aware that not everyone is comfortable with vapor, even if it's not traditional smoke.
• Follow the Rules: Adhere to all local laws and venue policies regarding vaping. Many places treat vaping like smoking and prohibit it indoors.

Device and Battery Safety

• Use the Right Charger: Only use the charger that came with your device and avoid leaving it charging unattended, especially overnight.
• Inspect Your Batteries: Check for damage or wear on batteries and replace them if necessary. Do not use damaged batteries.

Conclusion

Making the switch to vaping can be a rewarding process, but it requires some patience and initial research. By starting with a simple device, understanding the basic inhaling technique, and being aware of common pitfalls, you can ensure a much smoother transition. The initial odd sensations like coughing and dry mouth are temporary and easily managed. Remember to respect those around you and prioritize safety. Over time, you will find your preferred flavors and device setup, making for a much more enjoyable experience. For more detailed information on the health aspects of vaping, it is always recommended to consult authoritative sources such as this resource on vaping from Johns Hopkins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I coughing when I vape for the first time?

Coughing is a very common reaction for first-time vapers. It's caused by your body reacting to the different density and temperature of vapor compared to cigarette smoke. Using a simple, low-power device and practicing slow, gentle puffs can help minimize this.

What kind of vape device is best for a first-timer?

For beginners, a simple pod system or a basic vape pen is highly recommended. These devices are user-friendly, low-maintenance, and typically mimic the mouth-to-lung sensation familiar to smokers, making the transition easier.

How do I choose the right nicotine strength?

If you're a transitioning smoker, your previous smoking habits can be a guide. Heavy smokers might start with 12-18mg/ml, while lighter smokers may prefer 3-6mg/ml. It's best to start lower and gradually increase if needed to avoid dizziness or nausea.

What's the difference between Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL)?

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) is a two-step process: you draw vapor into your mouth, then inhale it into your lungs. Direct-to-Lung (DTL) is a direct, deep inhale straight into the lungs. Most beginners start with MTL, as it feels more natural and is less overwhelming.

Why does my vape taste burnt?

A burnt taste often occurs when the coil inside your device is not properly saturated with e-liquid. This can be caused by 'chain vaping' (puffing too frequently) or a low e-liquid level. To fix this, wait a few moments between puffs and ensure your tank is filled.

Is vaping actually safer than smoking cigarettes?

Vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking, as it doesn't involve combustion or produce tar and carbon monoxide. However, it is not without risks, and the long-term health effects are still being studied. If you do not already smoke, you should not start vaping.

How do I deal with dry mouth from vaping?

The PG and VG in e-liquids are known to cause dehydration. To combat this, simply make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Your body will likely adjust over time, and the dryness will become less noticeable.