Nicotine Salt Versus Freebase Nicotine

Nicotine salt has grown massively in popularity in the last couple of years and is very different to freebase nicotine. Previously, vape users could only use freebase nicotine in their vape juice. Freebase nicotine has a higher pH value which many people find to be harsh in strong doses, so the arrival of nicotine salt has been a massive plus for many. 

Let’s look at nicotine salt and freebase nicotine and their pros and cons.

Nicotine Salt 
Nicotine salt is a type of nicotine found in leaf tobacco, and nicotine salt e-liquids are an effective way of getting nicotine into your body. Many vapers say they prefer using nicotine salts and find inhaling easier. The bio-compatibility of nicotine salt allows many to use more potent liquids, which means they can ingest more nicotine at a time. 

Nicotine salts are absorbed into the bloodstream faster than freebase nicotine and provide a nicotine hit similar to that achieved with a traditional cigarette whilst using less e-liquid, which is attractive to many vapers. 

Nicotine salts are generally better for those new to vaping and are still smooth in higher doses, providing a mild throat hit. Users can take several puffs without experiencing throat soreness, producing small puff clouds, making it ideal for discreet vaping. Nicotine salts are also best for use with lower-wattage e-cigarettes for the most effective vaping experience. 

Freebase Nicotine 
Freebase nicotine is the most common alternative form of nicotine and has been around since the 1960s. Freebase nicotine changes nicotine from the so-called salt form (naturally occurring) to the base form, the purest form. This increases the strength without increasing the dose, which is why it’s popular with many vapers. 

For new vape users, freebase nicotine in a high quantity would likely produce a throat hit that would be too harsh and would negatively impact their enjoyment. When this happens, users then reduce the nicotine content of their liquid to have a less severe effect on their throat. 

Freebase nicotine is purer than nicotine salt and contains no additives, making it attractive to many. E-liquids containing freebase nicotine contain less nicotine, which can help those who wish to transition from nicotine addiction.

One massive benefit for many freebase nicotine users is that it provides maximum flavour complexity, meaning they can enjoy the full vape flavour without it being impacted by the nicotine.