What is the difference between Freebase and Nicotine Salts?
Nicotine is a chemical substance found in tobacco plants that is responsible for the addictive properties of cigarettes and other tobacco products. It is also used as a key ingredient in vaping products to create the desired effect of nicotine delivery without the harmful effects of smoking. Two common forms of nicotine used in vaping products are freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. While they both serve the same purpose, they have distinct differences that affect their effectiveness, flavour, and overall experience.
Freebase nicotine
Freebase nicotine is the purest form of nicotine that is extracted from tobacco leaves. It is in a basic form and has a higher pH level than nicotine salts, which makes it less stable and less soluble in liquid form. This means that freebase nicotine has a harsher throat hit when inhaled and takes longer to be absorbed by the body. To combat these drawbacks, manufacturers often add benzoic acid or other acids to the nicotine solution to reduce the pH level, making it easier to vaporize and absorb.
Nicotine Salts
Nicotine salts, on the other hand, are a newer form of nicotine that is chemically altered to create a more stable and soluble form of nicotine. This is done by combining nicotine with an acid, such as benzoic acid, to form a salt. The resulting product is a smoother vaping experience that delivers a higher concentration of nicotine to the body. Nicotine salts also have a more neutral pH level than freebase nicotine, which means they do not require added acids to make them more vaporizable.
Faster absorption
One of the most significant differences between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts is their rate of absorption. Freebase nicotine takes longer to be absorbed by the body, while nicotine salts are absorbed faster due to their chemical composition. This means that nicotine salts deliver a more potent hit of nicotine to the body, which can be helpful for heavy smokers who are looking to quit smoking. Nicotine salts are also less harsh on the throat, making them more appealing to individuals who find freebase nicotine too harsh.
Another difference between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts is their flavour. Freebase nicotine has a distinct, bitter taste that can be overpowering for some users. This is due to the higher pH level and harsher throat hit that is associated with freebase nicotine. Nicotine salts, on the other hand, have a milder taste that is less noticeable than freebase nicotine. This is due to the lower pH level and smoother vaping experience that is associated with nicotine salts.
In terms of vapour production, freebase nicotine produces more vapour than nicotine salts. This is because freebase nicotine has a higher boiling point than nicotine salts, which means it requires more heat to vaporize. Nicotine salts, on the other hand, have a lower boiling point, which means they vapourise more easily and produce less vapour.
Overall, the choice between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts comes down to personal preference. Both forms of nicotine deliver the desired effect of nicotine delivery without the harmful effects of smoking. Freebase nicotine is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger throat hit and more vapour production, while nicotine salts are better suited for individuals who prefer a milder taste and a faster absorption rate. It is important to note that both forms of nicotine should be used with caution and only by individuals who are of legal age to use nicotine products.