Vaping has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional smoking, but for a small percentage of vapers, propylene glycol (PG), one of the main ingredients in e-liquid, can cause allergic reactions. In this blog post, we will explore PG sensitivity and allergy symptoms, discuss the prevalence of PG allergies, and provide solutions for vapers who are allergic to PG.
PG Sensitivity and Allergy Symptoms
While most vapers can inhale PG without any issues, some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions. The most common symptoms include excessive irritation, a sore and dry throat when using PG-based e-liquids. However, in some cases, more typical allergic reactions can occur, such as sinus problems, headaches, nausea, numbness of the face, and itchy hives. These symptoms may indicate a contact allergy to PG.
Prevalence of PG Allergy
Approximately 1.5 to 3.5 percent of individuals may have a contact allergy to PG, although the exact number remains uncertain. If you notice small bumps around your mouth accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation, it is likely that PG is causing your symptoms. It’s important to note that even vapers who have used PG-based liquids without issues in the past can develop a sensitivity or allergy over time.
Differentiating Allergic Reactions from Other Factors
Sometimes, the signs of allergies can overlap with symptoms experienced when quitting smoking, such as “quit zits.” To determine if your symptoms are due to PG allergy, it is recommended to stop vaping or switch to a different e-liquid for a while and observe if the symptoms clear up. If your symptoms improve after avoiding PG-based liquids, it’s likely that PG is causing your allergic reactions.
What to Do if You’re Allergic to PG
For vapers allergic to PG, the simplest solution is to switch to vegetable glycerin (VG) based e-liquids or those with lower amounts of PG. While most e-liquid mixers, including Black Note, use a combination of PG and VG, you can find VG-only liquids. Some mixers also offer the option to choose the ratio of PG to VG. If you don’t switch to VG-only liquids, it is advised to keep the PG content as low as possible. A ratio of 70 percent VG to 30 percent PG may help minimize symptoms, but reducing PG further is even better.
Conclusion
Understanding PG sensitivity and allergy symptoms is crucial for vapers who experience adverse reactions. If you suspect you are allergic to PG, consider switching to VG-based e-liquids or those with reduced PG content. Always listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns regarding allergies or sensitivities. Enjoy your vaping experience while ensuring it aligns with your personal health needs and preferences.
Remember, at Black Note, we prioritize your satisfaction and offer a range of high-quality e-liquids crafted from natural tobacco leaves. Explore our collection today and enhance your vaping experience with our exceptional products.
