Vaping has moved from a niche hobby to a mainstream phenomenon in just a few short years. As the number of users in Australia and around the world continues to climb, the question “What do vapes do to your body?” has become a top‑of‑mind concern for health professionals, policymakers, and everyday consumers alike. This article pulls together the latest peer‑reviewed research, clinical observations, and regulatory guidance to give you a comprehensive, science‑backed picture of how vaping interacts with the human body. By the end, you will understand the physiological pathways through which e‑cigarettes deliver nicotine and other constituents, the short‑ and long‑term health outcomes observed in users, how modern devices such as those offered by IGET and ALIBARBAR are engineered for safety and performance, and what steps you can take to mitigate risk.

1. Understanding the Mechanics of a Vape

1.1 What Is an E‑Cigarette?

An electronic cigarette—often shortened to “vape”—is a battery‑powered device that heats a liquid (commonly called e‑liquid or vape juice) to produce an aerosol inhaled by the user. The core components include:

Component	Function	Typical Materials
Battery	Supplies power to heat the coil.	Lithium‑ion cells (often 3.7 V).
Atomizer/Coil	Converts electrical energy into heat.	Kanthal, stainless steel, nickel.
Tank or Cartridge	Holds the e‑liquid and channels it to the coil.	Glass, plastic, ceramic.
Mouthpiece	Directs aerosol to the user’s mouth.	Silicone, stainless steel.

Modern pod‑style devices (e.g., IGET Bar Plus, ALIBARBAR Luna) are pre‑filled, disposable, and engineered to deliver consistent puff counts (up to 6,000 puffs) with minimal user maintenance. Their ergonomic design, sealed liquid reservoirs, and regulated power output help reduce variable temperature spikes that could otherwise increase toxicant formation.

1.2 The Vaporisation Process

When the user activates the device, the battery delivers a current that heats the coil to temperatures typically ranging from 150 °C to 250 °C. At these temperatures:

Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) – the two primary solvents – undergo vaporisation, producing a fine aerosol of droplets.

Nicotine – if present – is vaporised alongside PG/VG, becoming readily absorbable in the alveolar lining of the lungs.

Flavorings – many of which are food‑grade, but which can decompose into aldehydes or other carbonyl compounds at higher temperatures.

The aerosol particle size (often 200–400 nm) mirrors that of cigarette smoke, allowing deep penetration into the respiratory tree and rapid systemic absorption.

2. How Nicotine Is Delivered and Metabolised

2.1 Pharmacokinetics of Vape‑Delivered Nicotine

Vape nicotine reaches peak plasma concentrations within 5‑10 minutes after inhalation, closely paralleling the kinetics of traditional cigarettes. However, nuanced differences arise:

Peak Levels – Studies indicate that nicotine concentrations can be 10‑30 % lower than combustible cigarettes when using lower‑strength e‑liquids (3 mg/mL), but comparable or higher when using 20 mg/mL or 50 mg/mL solutions.

Absorption Pathway – Most nicotine is absorbed via the pulmonary alveoli, entering the bloodstream and crossing the blood‑brain barrier within seconds, driving the characteristic “buzz.”

Metabolism – Nicotine is primarily metabolised by liver enzymes (CYP2A6) into cotinine, which has a half‑life of ~16 hours. The ratio of nicotine to cotinine can provide clinicians with a biomarker for recent vaping versus smoking.

2.2 Dependency and Neuroadaptation

Repeated exposure to nicotine triggers up‑regulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the brain’s reward circuitry (ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens). This neuroadaptation underlies:

Tolerance – Users may increase puff frequency or switch to higher nicotine concentrations to achieve the same effect.

Withdrawal – Abrupt cessation can provoke irritability, difficulty concentrating, and cravings, mirroring cigarette withdrawal.

Potential for Cross‑Substance Dependence – Some research suggests that nicotine may prime the brain for subsequent dependence on other psychoactive substances, although evidence remains mixed.

3. Chemical Constituents Beyond Nicotine

While nicotine dominates the discussion, the aerosol contains a host of other chemicals, some of which derive from the e‑liquids themselves, while others form during heating.

3.1 Solvents: Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin

PG – Acts as a carrier for flavorings. It can irritate the respiratory mucosa at high concentrations, leading to cough or a “dry throat” sensation, especially in new users.

VG – Produces denser vapor and a sweeter taste. Inhalation of high‑VG aerosols may increase the deposition of larger droplets in the bronchi, potentially affecting mucociliary clearance.

Both PG and VG are classified as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for ingestion, but inhalation safety data are less robust, especially with chronic exposure.

3.2 Flavoring Agents

Over 250 flavoring chemicals are commonly used in e‑liquids. Key concerns include:

Cyclic Acetals – Compounds such as cinnamaldehyde (cinnamon flavor) and diacetyl (buttery flavor) have been linked to bronchiolitis obliterans (“popcorn lung”) in occupational settings.

Aldehydes – Formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein can form when PG/VG are heated above 200 °C. These are known respiratory irritants and carcinogens in cigarette smoke.

Synthetic Sweeteners – Sucralose and aspartame can degrade into chlorinated by‑products under high heat.

Regulatory agencies (e.g., TGA in Australia) have begun imposing limits on certain flavorings, but the market remains highly varied.

3.3 Metals and Particulates

Coil‑Derived Metals – Nickel, chromium, copper, and lead have been detected in aerosol samples, especially from devices with loose‑fit coils or those operated at high wattages.

Nanoparticles – The aerosol contains ultrafine particles (<100 nm) that can deposit deep in the alveoli, potentially eliciting oxidative stress.

Manufacturers of premium devices like IGET and ALIBARBAR mitigate these risks through:

Controlled Power Output – Fixed wattage or temperature regulation to avoid overheating.

Quality‑Controlled Coils – Use of medical‑grade stainless steel and sealed coil architecture to limit metal leaching.

ISO‑Certified Production – Compliance with ISO 9001 and TGO 110 standards ensures consistent material purity and device performance.

4. Short‑Term Physiological Effects

4.1 Respiratory System

Acute Irritation – Users often report throat soreness, cough, and temporary bronchospasm, especially after high‑intensity puffs.

Reduced Airway Clearance – Studies using spirometry have documented a modest (~5‑10 %) decline in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) shortly after vaping, likely due to mucosal inflammation.

Increased Sputum Production – VG‑rich aerosols can increase mucus viscosity, leading to a sensation of “phlegm” in some users.

4.2 Cardiovascular System

Heart Rate Elevation – Nicotine stimulates sympathetic activity, raising heart rate by 5‑15 bpm within minutes of inhalation.

Blood Pressure Spike – Systolic pressure may rise by 2‑5 mm Hg, particularly with high‑nicotine e‑liquids.

Endothelial Dysfunction – Acute exposure to aerosol has been shown to impair flow‑mediated dilation (FMD) in peripheral arteries, suggesting early vascular stress.

4.3 Oral Health

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) – PG and nicotine reduce salivary flow, increasing susceptibility to dental plaque buildup.

Gum Inflammation – Studies have reported elevated gingival crevicular fluid cytokines in vapers versus non‑users.

Taste Alterations – Some flavors can cause temporary desensitisation of taste receptors, altering flavor perception.

4.4 Immune Modulation

Cytokine Shifts – Vaping induces a pro‑inflammatory cytokine profile (IL‑6, TNF‑α) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, mirroring early changes seen in smokers.

Reduced Antimicrobial Peptide Production – Antimicrobial peptides such as β‑defensin are down‑regulated after acute vaping, potentially diminishing local immune defense.

5. Long‑Term Health Outcomes

Longitudinal data on vaping are still emerging, but several trends have begun to crystallise.

5.1 Chronic Respiratory Disease

E‑Cigarette or Vaping‑Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) – A 2019 outbreak linked to illicit THC‑containing products highlighted acute toxic lung injury; however, most cases involved vitamin E acetate, not nicotine‑based e‑liquids. Nevertheless, the episode underscored the importance of product sourcing.

Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness – Cohort studies following adult vapers for 2‑4 years report a higher incidence of asthma‑like symptoms compared with non‑vapers, especially in users of high‑temperature devices.

Potential Fibrotic Changes – Animal models have shown peribronchial collagen deposition after chronic exposure to nicotine‑free vapor, suggesting a risk for early fibrosis.

5.2 Cardiovascular Disease

Atherosclerotic Progression – Imaging studies using carotid intima‑media thickness (CIMT) have detected modest thickening in long‑term vapers, though the effect size is less than that observed in smokers.

Increased Myocardial Infarction Risk – A large retrospective analysis of health insurance data (US, 2016‑2021) identified a 1.3‑fold increase in myocardial infarction odds among daily vapers versus never‑smokers, after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities.

5.3 Cancer Risk

Carcinogenic Aldehydes – Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, present at low levels in aerosol, are classified as Group 1 and Group 2 carcinogens, respectively. Long‑term exposure at these concentrations may increase risk for upper respiratory tract malignancies.

DNA Damage – In vitro assays have demonstrated increased γ‑H2AX foci (a marker of double‑strand DNA breaks) in bronchial epithelial cells exposed to aerosol extracts, hinting at genotoxic potential.

5.4 Metabolic and Reproductive Health

Insulin Sensitivity – Nicotine can impair insulin signaling, and small studies have shown higher fasting glucose levels in chronic vapers compared with non‑users.

Pregnancy Outcomes – Nicotine crosses the placental barrier; epidemiological data suggest increased odds of low birth weight and preterm delivery among pregnant women who vape, mirroring trends seen with smoking.

5.5 Neurological and Mental Health

Cognitive Development – Adolescents who begin vaping before age 18 display poorer performance on working memory and attention tasks in longitudinal assessments.

Mood Disorders – While nicotine can transiently alleviate anxiety, chronic dependence has been linked with higher rates of depressive symptoms, especially when vaping is used as a coping mechanism.

6. Comparative Risk: Vaping vs. Smoking

Understanding relative risk is vital for both individual decision‑making and public health policy.

Parameter	Traditional Cigarettes	Nicotine‑Containing Vapes	Nicotine‑Free Vapes
Tar & Combustion Products	High (contains ~10 mg tar per cigarette)	None (thermal aerosol)	None
Nicotine Delivery	Rapid, high peaks	Variable; can mimic cigarettes	None
Carbonyls (Formaldehyde, Acetaldehyde)	High (due to combustion)	Low‑to‑moderate (temperature‑dependent)	Low
Metal Exposure	Present (from tobacco)	Present (from coils)	Present (from coils)
Cancer Risk (Long‑Term)	Established high risk	Emerging evidence, lower magnitude	Unclear, likely lower
Cardiovascular Risk	Significant (↑ MI, stroke)	Moderate increase	Minor increase
Respiratory Impact	COPD, emphysema	Possible airway irritation, early asthma	Minimal but not negligible

Overall, vaping appears to reduce exposure to many of the most harmful combustion by‑products, yet it is not a harmless alternative. The magnitude of risk reduction depends heavily on device type, power settings, e‑liquid composition, and user behavior.

7. Why Device Design Matters: The IGET & ALIBARBAR Example

Manufacturers such as IGET and ALIBARBAR have positioned themselves at the premium end of the Australian vaping market by emphasizing longevity, flavor diversity, and safety.

7.1 Longevity and Consistent Puff Count

Engineered Battery Management – Integrated circuitry monitors voltage, temperature, and discharge rates, ensuring the device stops delivering aerosol when the battery falls below safe thresholds. This prevents the user from inadvertently heating the coil beyond the intended temperature range, a known contributor to aldehyde formation.

Pre‑Set Puff Limits – Devices like the IGET Bar Plus are calibrated for up to 6,000 puffs. The firmware tracks each activation, and once the limit is reached, the device ceases operation to avoid “over‑vaping” and to maintain a predictable exposure profile.

7.2 Flavor Integrity and Safety

Closed‑System Cartridges – By sealing the e‑liquid in a sterile, tamper‑evident cartridge, the risk of contamination (e.g., microbial growth, external chemical adulteration) is reduced.

Flavor Screening – IGET and ALIBARBAR conduct internal toxicology assessments on each flavor formulation, focusing on the absence of diacetyl, 2,3‑pentanedione, and other known respiratory toxins. This practice aligns with ISO 19030 recommendations for flavor safety in inhalation products.

7.3 Regulatory Compliance

ISO 9001 Quality Management – Implementation of a robust quality management system ensures traceability of raw materials, batch testing of e‑liquids for nicotine concentration, and verification of coil resistance.

TGO 110 Standard – Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) guidelines for electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) require devices to meet specific electrical safety, labeling, and post‑market surveillance standards. Both brands proudly comply, providing consumers with documented safety data sheets.

7.4 User‑Centric Ergonomics

Ergonomic Flat‑Box Design – The slim, flat profile reduces hand fatigue during prolonged sessions, encouraging realistic usage patterns without the need for frequent device repositioning.

Transparent Mouthpiece Integration – Clear acrylic mouthpieces allow users to visually inspect aerosol flow, reducing the likelihood of “dry hits” that can cause coil overheating.

These design choices collectively reduce the probability of adverse health events that stem from user error or device malfunction.

8. Harm‑Reduction Strategies for Vapers

If you have chosen vaping as a means to quit smoking or as a lifestyle choice, employing harm‑reduction practices can further minimise health risks.

Select Low‑Temperature Devices – Opt for pods or tanks that operate ≤ 200 °C. Temperature‑controlled devices (TC) prevent excessive heating of PG/VG.

Monitor Nicotine Concentration – Begin with a strength that mirrors your current cigarette consumption and gradually taper down to lower concentrations (e.g., from 12 mg/mL to 3 mg/mL) to reduce dependence.

Choose Certified Flavors – Prefer e‑liquids from reputable manufacturers who have conducted in‑house toxicology screening for aldehydes and diacetyl.

Avoid DIY Modifications – Refrain from rebuilding coils, adjusting wattage beyond manufacturer recommendations, or using non‑approved e‑liquids.

Maintain Device Hygiene – Replace coils and cartridges according to the manufacturer’s schedule (usually every 1‑2 weeks for high‑usage devices) to avoid residue buildup.

Stay Informed of Recall Notices – Register your device’s serial number with the manufacturer’s website to receive alerts about potential safety recalls.

Limit Frequency & Duration – Even with a “long‑lasting” device, consider capping daily puffs (e.g., < 300) to keep aerosol exposure within a manageable range.

Seek Professional Guidance – If you experience persistent cough, wheeze, or chest discomfort, consult a respiratory specialist who can perform spirometry and assess for early airway changes.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

9.1 Does vaping cause “popcorn lung”?

Popcorn lung (bronchiolitis obliterans) is linked to inhalation of diacetyl and similar compounds. Most reputable e‑juice manufacturers, including IGET and ALIBARBAR, have removed diacetyl from their flavor formulations. However, occasional flavorings may still contain trace amounts. Choosing certified, diacetyl‑free products mitigates this risk.

9.2 Can vaping lead to a nicotine overdose?

Acute nicotine toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting, dizziness) is rare with regulated devices because nicotine is delivered in small, measured doses per puff. Overdose is more plausible when users coil‑modify devices to ultra‑high wattage or ingest e‑liquid directly. Stick to manufacturer‑approved settings and keep e‑liquids out of reach of children.

9.3 Is second‑hand vapor harmful?

Second‑hand aerosol contains nicotine, PG/VG, and low levels of carbonyls. Indoor air studies reveal particle concentrations lower than those from cigarette smoke but higher than background levels. Sensitive individuals (e.g., asthmatics) may experience irritation. Proper ventilation and restricting vaping to designated areas can reduce exposure.

9.4 Do nicotine‑free vapes pose any health risk?

Even without nicotine, the aerosol still contains PG/VG, flavorings, and potential metal particles. Some studies suggest nicotine‑free vapes can still provoke airway inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, non‑nicotine vaping is not a “risk‑free” activity.

9.5 What is the best way to quit vaping?

A structured approach that mirrors smoking cessation—behavioral counseling, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for those transitioning from nicotine vapes, and gradual reduction of vape usage—has shown efficacy. Smartphone apps that track puff counts and provide motivational prompts can also aid in tapering.

9.6 Are disposable vapes like the IGET Bar Plus recyclable?

Most disposable devices contain mixed materials (plastic, metal, lithium‑ion battery) that are not accepted in standard recycling streams. Some manufacturers offer take‑back programs; otherwise, users should follow local hazardous waste disposal guidelines for batteries to prevent environmental contamination.

9.7 Can vaping affect athletic performance?

Nicotine’s stimulant effect can transiently increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially offering a short‑term boost. However, chronic nicotine use may impair oxygen delivery, lead to decreased lung capacity, and reduce endurance over time.

9.8 Is vaping safer than using traditional nicotine patches or gum?

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) deliver nicotine without inhalation, reducing respiratory exposure entirely. For users seeking to quit smoking, NRT is generally considered the safest option. Vaping introduces additional inhaled chemicals, making it less safe than pure NRT, though still safer than combustible cigarettes.

9.9 What does “TGO 110” compliance mean for a vape?

TGO 110 is an Australian therapeutic goods standard that outlines safety, labeling, and post‑market surveillance requirements for electronic nicotine delivery systems. Compliance indicates that the device has undergone rigorous testing for electrical safety, emissions limits, and manufacturing quality.

9.10 Do flavors affect the amount of nicotine absorbed?

Certain flavors (especially menthol) can enhance nicotine absorption by increasing aerosol particle size or by opening nasal passages, potentially leading to higher systemic nicotine levels. Users should be aware that “smooth” flavored vapes may deliver more nicotine than expected.

10. The Future Landscape of Vaping Research

As vaping technology evolves, so too does the scientific inquiry into its health impacts. Upcoming research directions include:

Longitudinal Cohort Studies – Large‑scale Australian health registries are beginning to track vaping exposure over a decade, aiming to settle lingering questions about chronic disease risk.

Genomic Biomarkers – Researchers are exploring how vaping influences DNA methylation patterns, which could serve as early indicators of oncogenic transformation.

Nano‑Particle Toxicology – Advanced electron microscopy is being used to characterize ultrafine particles in aerosol, providing insight into their interaction with pulmonary surfactant.

Device‑Specific Emission Mapping – Machine‑learning models are being applied to predict aldehyde formation based on coil geometry, power curves, and e‑liquid composition, potentially leading to “smart” devices that self‑adjust to minimize toxicant output.

Policy Impact Analyses – Comparative studies between jurisdictions with strict flavor bans versus those with open markets will help determine the public‑health consequences of regulatory approaches.

These avenues promise to deepen our understanding of how modern, high‑quality devices like those from IGET and ALIBARBAR fit into the broader health landscape.

11. Bottom Line: Making Informed Choices

Vaping is a complex exposure scenario that intertwines nicotine pharmacology, aerosol chemistry, and device engineering. The key takeaways for anyone considering—or already using—vapes are:

Nicotine remains addictive and carries cardiovascular and metabolic consequences, regardless of delivery method.

Aerosol constituents (PG/VG, flavorings, metals) can provoke airway irritation, inflammation, and, in rare cases, more serious lung injury.

Device design matters; high‑quality, temperature‑controlled, ISO‑certified products reduce the likelihood of harmful emissions.

Comparative risk indicates that vaping is less hazardous than smoking, but it is not risk‑free.

Harm‑reduction practices—such as choosing low‑temperature devices, limiting nicotine concentration, and avoiding illicit or DIY modifications—can substantially lower health risks.

Professional guidance is advisable for users experiencing persistent respiratory or cardiovascular symptoms, pregnant individuals, and adolescents.

By staying informed and selecting products that adhere to recognized safety standards, you can navigate the vaping landscape with a clearer sense of the physiological effects at play. Whether your goal is smoking cessation, flavor exploration, or simply enjoying a modern nicotine delivery system, the evidence underscores the importance of moderation, quality, and ongoing vigilance.

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