How to Make Vape Juice Without PG or VG: A Clear and Confident Guide

Making your own vape juice can be a fun and rewarding experience, but many commercial vape juices contain propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) as their base ingredients. If you’re looking for an alternative to these ingredients, you’re in luck. There are several ways to make vape juice without PG or VG.

One alternative to PG and VG is using terpenes as the base ingredient. Terpenes are natural compounds found in plants, and they can provide a unique flavor and aroma to your vape juice. Another option is using high VG vape juice, which contains a higher percentage of vegetable glycerin than propylene glycol. This can provide a smoother and thicker vapor.

If you’re looking for a completely PG and VG-free option, there are several alternatives available. For example, you can use 100% VG as your base ingredient, or you can try using honey or agave nectar as a sweetener. Keep in mind that experimenting with different ingredients and ratios may take some trial and error, but with some patience and creativity, you can create a vape juice that’s perfect for you.

Understanding Vape Juice

Vape juice, also known as e-liquid, is the liquid that is used in electronic cigarettes to create vapor. It typically contains a combination of flavorings, nicotine, and a base liquid. The two most common base liquids used in vape juice are propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). However, some people may be sensitive to these ingredients or prefer to avoid them altogether. In this section, I will provide an overview of the role of PG and VG in vape juice and alternatives to these ingredients.

Propylene Glycol (PG)

PG is a synthetic compound that is commonly used as a food additive and in various industrial applications. In vape juice, PG is used as a thinning agent and to carry the flavoring agents. It is also responsible for the throat hit that many vapers enjoy. However, some people may be sensitive to PG and experience irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, some people may prefer to avoid PG due to health concerns.

Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

VG is a natural compound that is derived from vegetable oil. In vape juice, VG is used to create the vapor and to provide a sweet taste. It is also thicker than PG, which can result in a smoother vaping experience. However, VG may not carry flavorings as well as PG and can result in a muted flavor. Additionally, some people may experience digestive issues when consuming large amounts of VG.

Alternatives to PG and VG

There are several alternatives to PG and VG that can be used in vape juice. These include:

• Triacetin: a synthetic compound that is commonly used as a flavor carrier in food and pharmaceuticals.
• Terpenes: natural compounds that are found in plants and are responsible for their flavor and aroma.
• 100% VG: some vapers prefer to use vape juice that contains only VG, although this can result in a muted flavor.

It is important to note that some of these alternatives may not be suitable for all vapers and may require additional research and experimentation. Additionally, it is important to use caution when handling and mixing vape juice ingredients to ensure safety.

Ingredients Needed

To make vape juice without PG or VG, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These include:

• Nicotine: This is the addictive substance found in cigarettes and other tobacco products. It’s also a common ingredient in vape juice. You can purchase nicotine in a variety of strengths and forms, including liquid, powder, and crystals.

• Flavorings: Vape juice comes in a wide range of flavors, from fruity to sweet to savory. You can purchase flavorings in liquid or powder form, and many are specifically designed for use in vape juice.

• Carrier liquids: In place of PG and VG, you’ll need a different type of carrier liquid to help deliver the nicotine and flavorings. Some popular options include:

  • Pure grain alcohol: This is a high-proof alcohol that can be used as a carrier liquid. It’s important to note that pure grain alcohol is highly flammable, so you’ll need to take extra precautions when handling it.

  • Distilled water: This is a simple option that can be used as a carrier liquid. However, it’s important to note that using too much distilled water can dilute the flavor of your vape juice.

  • Ethyl alcohol: This is another type of alcohol that can be used as a carrier liquid. It’s less flammable than pure grain alcohol, but still requires careful handling.

  • Vegetable glycerin: While VG is typically used as a carrier liquid in commercial vape juice, it can also be used as a substitute for PG. However, it’s important to note that using too much VG can result in a thick, syrupy vape juice that doesn’t vaporize well.

• Mixing supplies: To make your own vape juice, you’ll need a few basic supplies, including:

  • Measuring cups and spoons: These will help you measure out the correct amount of each ingredient.

  • Mixing containers: You’ll need a container to mix your ingredients in. Glass or plastic bottles with tight-fitting lids work well.

  • Syringes: These are useful for measuring out small amounts of liquid ingredients.

Overall, making your own vape juice without PG or VG requires a bit of experimentation and patience. With the right ingredients and supplies, however, you can create a custom vape juice that suits your tastes and preferences.

Safety Precautions

When making your own vape juice, it’s important to take certain safety precautions to ensure that you don’t harm yourself or others. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Use Appropriate Safety Gear

When working with chemicals, it’s important to protect yourself. Make sure to wear gloves and goggles to prevent accidental exposure to the ingredients.

Work in a Well-Ventilated Area

Many of the chemicals used in vape juice can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. To prevent this, work in a well-ventilated area or use a fume hood to remove any harmful vapors.

Label Your Ingredients

It’s important to keep track of what ingredients you’re using and in what quantities. Labeling your ingredients can help prevent accidental mixing or ingestion.

Keep Ingredients Out of Reach of Children and Pets

Many of the chemicals used in vape juice can be harmful if ingested. Keep your ingredients in a secure location out of reach of children and pets.

Follow Proper Mixing Procedures

When mixing your ingredients, it’s important to follow proper procedures to prevent accidents or mistakes. Use a clean workspace and carefully measure out your ingredients to ensure that you get the desired results.

By following these safety precautions, you can ensure that you make vape juice safely and effectively.

Preparing Your Workspace

As someone who has been making vape juice for a while now, I can tell you that the key to success is preparation. Before you even think about mixing your ingredients, you need to make sure that your workspace is clean, organized, and free of any potential contaminants.

Here are a few steps that I take to prepare my workspace:

1. Clean and Sanitize: I start by cleaning my workspace with soap and water, and then I sanitize it with rubbing alcohol. This ensures that any bacteria or germs are eliminated, and that my workspace is safe for mixing my ingredients.

2. Gather Your Supplies: Next, I gather all of the supplies that I will need for mixing my ingredients. This includes measuring cups, syringes, bottles, and any other tools that I might need.

3. Label Your Ingredients: It’s important to label all of your ingredients so that you don’t mix them up. I use sticky labels to mark each bottle with the name of the ingredient and the amount that I will need.

4. Measure Your Ingredients: Once everything is labeled, I measure out my ingredients. This is where accuracy is key. I use a digital scale to ensure that I am measuring the exact amount of each ingredient that I need.

5. Keep Your Workspace Organized: Finally, I make sure that my workspace is organized. I keep all of my supplies within easy reach, and I make sure that everything is in its place.

By following these steps, I can ensure that my workspace is clean, organized, and ready for mixing my ingredients. This helps me to create a consistent and high-quality vape juice every time.

Selecting a Base

When making vape juice without PG or VG, it is important to select a suitable base that will carry the flavorings and nicotine. There are several alternatives to PG and VG that can be used as a base, each with its own unique properties and benefits.

One option is to use 100% VG as the base. This is a popular choice among vapers who are sensitive to PG or who prefer a smoother, less harsh throat hit. VG is a thick, sweet liquid that produces dense vapor clouds and adds a slightly sweet taste to the e-liquid. However, it can be difficult to mix with flavorings and nicotine, and may require steeping to fully blend the ingredients.

Another alternative is triacetin, a flavorless and odorless liquid that is commonly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Triacetin is a thin, clear liquid that is easy to mix with flavorings and nicotine, and produces a smooth, mellow vapor. However, it may not produce as much vapor as VG, and can be expensive compared to other bases.

Terpenes are another option for a base, particularly for those who prefer natural, plant-based ingredients. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, and can be extracted and used as a flavoring and base for e-liquids. They are thin, clear liquids that produce a light, flavorful vapor. However, terpenes can be difficult to work with and may require special equipment to extract and refine.

High VG vape juice is also an option for those who want a blend of VG and other ingredients. High VG vape juice typically contains at least 70% VG, with the remaining ingredients being flavorings and nicotine. This can produce a smooth, flavorful vapor with dense clouds, but may require steeping and may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to PG.

When selecting a base for your DIY vape juice, it is important to consider your personal preferences, as well as the properties and benefits of each alternative. Experimentation and testing may be necessary to find the perfect balance of ingredients for your ideal e-liquid.

Adding Flavorings

When making vape juice without PG or VG, flavorings play a crucial role in achieving a satisfying vaping experience. Here are some tips on how to add flavorings to your DIY vape juice.

Natural Extracts

Natural extracts are derived from fruits, herbs, and other natural sources. They are a popular choice for adding flavor to vape juice because they offer a more authentic taste than artificial flavorings. Here are some popular natural extracts:

• Fruit extracts: strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, mango, pineapple, etc.
• Herb extracts: mint, basil, thyme, rosemary, etc.
• Spice extracts: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, etc.

When using natural extracts, it’s important to keep in mind that they can be quite potent. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you achieve the desired flavor. Also, be aware that natural extracts can be sensitive to heat, so it’s best to add them to your vape juice after it has cooled down.

Artificial Flavorings

Artificial flavorings are synthetic compounds that mimic the taste of natural extracts. They are often used in commercial vape juice because they are cheaper and more consistent than natural extracts. Here are some popular artificial flavorings:

• Fruit flavorings: strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, mango, pineapple, etc.
• Dessert flavorings: vanilla, chocolate, caramel, etc.
• Beverage flavorings: coffee, tea, soda, etc.

When using artificial flavorings, it’s important to choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers. Some artificial flavorings can contain harmful chemicals, so it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

In conclusion, adding flavorings is an essential part of making vape juice without PG or VG. Whether you prefer natural extracts or artificial flavorings, it’s important to experiment and find the right combination of flavors that suits your taste.

Mixing Process

To make vape juice without PG or VG, I use a simple mixing process that involves the following steps:

1. Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment, including a scale, syringes, bottles, and flavorings.
2. Measure out the desired amount of nicotine base and add it to the mixing bottle.
3. Add the desired amount of flavorings to the mixing bottle using a syringe.
4. Add the desired amount of alternative carrier liquids such as terpenes, MCT oil, or distilled water to the mixing bottle.
5. Close the mixing bottle and shake it vigorously for several minutes until all the ingredients are well combined.
6. Let the mixture sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Test the mixture and adjust the flavors or nicotine levels as needed.
8. Transfer the mixture to a clean bottle for storage and use.

It is important to note that when making vape juice without PG or VG, it is crucial to use high-quality ingredients and to measure them accurately to ensure a consistent and safe vaping experience. Additionally, it may take some trial and error to find the right combination of carrier liquids and flavorings to achieve the desired taste and vapor production. With practice and patience, however, it is possible to create a satisfying and customized vape juice without PG or VG.

Steeping

Steeping is the process of letting your e-juice sit for a period of time, allowing the flavors to meld together and mature. This can help to enhance the flavor of your vape juice and make it smoother to vape. Steeping is especially important if you are making your own vape juice without PG or VG, as the lack of these ingredients can result in a harsher flavor.

There are several methods for steeping vape juice, including:

• Time: Simply letting your vape juice sit for a period of time can allow it to steep naturally. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the recipe and the desired flavor intensity.
• Heat: Heating your vape juice can speed up the steeping process. This can be done by placing your vape juice bottle in a warm water bath or using a crockpot or sous vide machine to heat the juice.
• Ultrasonic: Ultrasonic steeping involves using an ultrasonic cleaner to agitate the vape juice and speed up the steeping process. This method is popular among DIY vape juice makers.

It’s important to note that not all vape juice recipes will benefit from steeping, and some flavors may actually degrade over time. It’s important to experiment with different steeping methods and times to find what works best for your specific recipe.

Overall, steeping can be a great way to enhance the flavor of your vape juice, especially if you are making your own juice without PG or VG. Experiment with different methods and times to find what works best for you and your recipe.

Storage and Usage

When it comes to storing and using your DIY vape juice, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best possible experience.

Firstly, it’s important to store your vape juice in a cool, dark place. Exposure to light and heat can cause the flavor and potency of your juice to degrade over time. A good place to store your juice is in a cabinet or drawer away from direct sunlight.

It’s also important to keep your vape juice out of reach of children and pets. Nicotine can be toxic in high doses, so it’s important to handle it with care. Consider storing your juice in a locked cabinet or high up out of reach.

When it comes to using your vape juice, it’s important to follow the instructions for your specific device. Different devices may require different ratios of PG and VG, so be sure to do your research and find a recipe that works for your device.

Additionally, it’s important to start with a lower nicotine strength and gradually work up to a higher strength if needed. This will help you avoid any unpleasant side effects from too much nicotine.

Finally, be sure to clean your device regularly to ensure the best possible flavor and vapor production. This can be done by disassembling your device and cleaning each component with warm water and a mild soap.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your DIY vape juice is stored and used safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make vape juice without using PG or VG?

There are several alternatives to PG and VG that you can use to make vape juice. Some of these alternatives include triacetin, terpenes, and high VG vape juice. You can also try using water or vodka as a base for your vape juice. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may affect the flavor and consistency of your vape juice.

What are some household items I can use to make vape juice?

While it is possible to make vape juice using household items, it is not recommended. Some common household items that people use to make vape juice include vegetable oil, honey, and corn syrup. However, these items are not meant to be inhaled and may cause harm to your lungs.

Is it possible to make vape juice without glycerin?

Yes, it is possible to make vape juice without glycerin. You can use alternatives such as triacetin or terpenes to create a vape juice that does not contain glycerin. However, it is important to note that glycerin is often used to create the vapor in vape juice, so your vape juice may not produce as much vapor without glycerin.

Can I make vape juice using vegetable oil?

While it is possible to make vape juice using vegetable oil, it is not recommended. Vegetable oil is not meant to be inhaled and may cause harm to your lungs. It is important to use safe and approved ingredients when making vape juice.

Are there any alternatives to nicotine when making vape juice?

Yes, there are alternatives to nicotine when making vape juice. You can use herbal extracts or essential oils to create a vape juice that does not contain nicotine. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may affect the flavor and consistency of your vape juice.

What are some disposable vapes that do not contain propylene glycol?

There are several disposable vapes that do not contain propylene glycol. Some popular options include the Puff Bar, Hyppe Bar, and Air Bar. However, it is important to note that these disposable vapes may still contain other harmful chemicals and should be used with caution.