It used to be that nicotine addiction alone drove the cigarette industry. Sure, each brand had their own slogan or spokesperson to draw business their way, but a cigarette was a cigarette. Aside from choosing between brands and filter options, there just wasn’t much thought that was put into the habit. The early e-cigarettes looked just like a traditional cigarette but as the market evolved, companies began to draw users, both adults and teens alike, by making the devices visually appealing and by offering ways to customize the delivery of whatever product you decide to ingest. Let’s talk about the various kinds of devices on the market.
Vape pens are typically considered a “beginner’s” device. They are comprised of a battery, atomizer, and cartridge (refillable or disposable). The battery powers the atomizer which heats the juice. This creates the vapor which is inhaled through the mouthpiece. These are widely available in a variety of flavors and nicotine strengths. Also available for these is juice containing THC (the substance in marijuana that creates the high.) This is usually what beginners gravitate towards because they are affordable and not too powerful.
Dab or Wax pens are similar to the vape pens but are used to smoke wax, which is a highly concentrated form of THC. These deliver much higher amounts of THC since it is heating the concentrated wax and not a liquid. These pens have a chamber where the wax is inserted and it is heated to release the vapor. These devices make it very difficult to tell when someone is using due to the vapor being almost completely odorless. Parents should be aware of other signs that their children are using this substance. You can find those signs here, but we will cover those in a couple weeks as well.
Vape mods are larger devices and are typically seen among the more experienced users because of their customizable features and high output ability. You can recognize these by their boxy shape and the larger vape cloud released by the user.
Vape pods are probably the most popular choice among teens. They are easy to use and get their name because the juice comes in a detachable pod. You can either refill those pods or you can purchase new pods to go onto it. These also come in a variety of shapes and sizes making them appealing to teens.
Now on to the more concerning devices. There are some that have been specifically designed to hide in plain sight. Some of the more popular vaping items disguised at everyday items include:
- Hoodies
- USB drives
- Backpacks
- Phone cases
- Pens/Highlighters
- Smartwatches
- Lipstick/cosmetics
- Key fobs
- Water bottles
The list could go on and on. Click here if you’re interested in seeing some of these products. It really is quite concerning how far e-cigarette manufacturers have gone to help youth hide this habit from the concerned adults in their lives.
Check in with us next week. We’ll be talking about the juice/products used in these devices and the impacts they have on our health.
