Calculating and Adjusting Nicotine in Your DIY E-liquids: Tailoring Your Vape to Your Needs

Introduction

Nicotine dosing is a crucial element in crafting DIY e-liquids. Whether you’re a vaper looking to gradually reduce your nicotine consumption or find the perfect dose for an optimal vaping experience, this article will guide you through the precise calculation of nicotine concentration and provide tips for adjusting your blends to suit your preferences. We will also discuss the different forms of nicotine available on the market and how to use them in your preparations.

1. Understanding Nicotine in E-liquids

1.1. What is Nicotine?

Nicotine is an alkaloid naturally present in tobacco plants. In e-liquids, it is used to replicate the throat hit sensation and satisfy the needs of former smokers.

1.2. Different Forms of Nicotine Used in E-liquids

• Freebase Nicotine: This is the most common form, providing a pronounced throat hit. It is suitable for higher nicotine levels (6 mg/ml and above).
• Nicotine Salts (Salt Nicotine): This form is smoother in the throat, even at high concentrations (20 mg/ml and above), making it ideal for those looking for a higher dosage without the harsh hit.

2. Calculating Nicotine Concentration in Your DIY E-liquids

2.1. The Basic Formula

To calculate the amount of nicotine to add to your e-liquid, use this simple formula: Nicotine Quantity (ml)=Desired Concentration (mg/ml)×Total Volume (ml)Nicotine Base Concentration (mg/ml)\text{Nicotine Quantity (ml)} = \frac{\text{Desired Concentration (mg/ml)} \times \text{Total Volume (ml)}}{\text{Nicotine Base Concentration (mg/ml)}}Nicotine Quantity (ml)=Nicotine Base Concentration (mg/ml)Desired Concentration (mg/ml)×Total Volume (ml)​

2.2. Example Calculation

• Situation: You want to prepare 100 ml of e-liquid with a concentration of 6 mg/ml of nicotine, using a nicotine base of 20 mg/ml.
• Calculation: Nicotine Quantity=6×10020=30 ml of nicotine base\text{Nicotine Quantity} = \frac{6 \times 100}{20} = 30 \text{ ml of nicotine base}Nicotine Quantity=206×100​=30 ml of nicotine base

You will need to add 30 ml of your 20 mg/ml nicotine base to your mixture.

2.3. Using a Nicotine Calculator

For more accuracy, use an online nicotine calculator. It allows you to enter your base values and provides the exact volume of nicotine to add to reach your desired concentration.

3. Adjusting Nicotine to Your Needs

3.1. Gradually Reducing Nicotine

If you wish to decrease your nicotine intake, gradually lower the concentration of your e-liquid. For example, move from 12 mg/ml to 9 mg/ml, then to 6 mg/ml, over a period of several weeks or months.

3.2. Increasing Nicotine for More Satisfaction

If you find your current e-liquid unsatisfactory, try increasing the nicotine concentration in increments of 1 to 2 mg/ml. However, ensure not to exceed a concentration that your device can handle, as this may lead to leaks or unpleasant tastes.

4. Differences Between Freebase Nicotine and Nicotine Salts

4.1. Throat Hit Sensation

• Freebase Nicotine: Provides a stronger and more intense hit. Ideal for former heavy smokers.
• Nicotine Salts: Offers a smoother hit, even at high concentrations. Perfect for low-power devices (pods) and vapers seeking a more discreet effect.

4.2. Speed of Absorption

• Freebase Nicotine: Slower absorption, providing a more gradual effect.
• Nicotine Salts: Faster absorption, ideal for a more immediate satisfaction effect.

4.3. Application in DIY

• Freebase Nicotine: Use it for e-liquids with balanced or high PG ratios and for low to medium concentrations.
• Nicotine Salts: Prefer this option for VG-heavy blends or for pods with a high dosage without feeling too harsh.

5. Adjusting PG/VG Ratio According to Nicotine Concentration

5.1. Importance of PG/VG Ratio

• Propylene Glycol (PG): Flavor and throat hit carrier. A high PG ratio intensifies the nicotine hit.
• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): Adds vapor and softens the hit. A high VG ratio reduces the impact of nicotine on the throat.

5.2. Choosing the Right Ratio Based on Your Nicotine Dosage

• High Concentration (> 12 mg/ml): Use a 70/30 or 80/20 PG/VG ratio to maximize the hit.
• Medium Concentration (6-12 mg/ml): Use a 50/50 PG/VG ratio for a good balance between hit and vapor.
• Low Concentration (< 6 mg/ml): Use a 30/70 or 20/80 PG/VG ratio for a smooth vape and generous vapor.

6. Precautions and Safety Tips for Handling Nicotine

6.1. Protective Equipment

• Gloves: Always wear gloves to avoid skin contact.
• Safety Glasses: In case of accidental splashes, to protect your eyes.

6.2. Storage

• Location: Store your nicotine bases in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
• Container: Use amber glass bottles with secure caps to prevent degradation from light.

6.3. In Case of Skin Contact

• Rinse thoroughly with water and soap.
• If a burning sensation or irritation persists, consult a doctor.

7. Using Additives to Soften the Hit or Enhance Sensations

7.1. Hit-Softening Additives

• Smooth (0.5-1%): Reduces hit intensity without altering flavors.
• MTS Vape Wizard (0.5-1%): Softens the hit while smoothing flavors.

7.2. Hit-Boosting Additives

• Flash (0.5-1%): Amplifies hit for lower nicotine concentrations.
• Cayenne Pepper (0.1%): Adds a kick of heat without increasing nicotine.

8. Taste It

On the Taste It website, we offer a wide range of bases to meet all needs. Whether you’re looking to reduce your consumption or customize your vaping experience, our products offer total flexibility. Take advantage of our special offers for nicotine bases during the promotion and create your DIY e-liquids with ease.

Conclusion

Calculating and adjusting nicotine in your DIY e-liquids is essential for a satisfying vaping experience tailored to your needs. By following our advice, you will be able to prepare perfectly dosed e-liquids, whether with freebase nicotine or nicotine salts. In our next article, we will guide you through the e-liquid maturation process, a crucial step to unlock the full potential of your flavors.