Nicotine Salts FAQs
Nicotine salts are the natural form of nicotine found in tobacco leaves, combined with benzoic acid to create a smoother vaping experience. Unlike traditional freebase nicotine, nic salts allow you to vape higher strengths (up to 20mg in the UK) without the harsh throat hit. They're absorbed into your bloodstream faster, giving you quicker satisfaction - ideal if you're switching from cigarettes. At Ecigone, our nic salts range includes popular brands like ELFLIQ, Elux Legend, and Bar Juice, all priced at just £1.99 per 10ml bottle.
The main difference is smoothness and absorption speed. Nic salts have a lower pH level (around 5-6) compared to freebase nicotine (pH 7-9), making them much smoother on your throat even at 20mg strength. You'll feel the nicotine satisfaction within 6-7 seconds with nic salts versus 20-30 seconds with freebase. This makes nic salts perfect for pod kits and mouth-to-lung vaping at 10-15W, while freebase works better in sub-ohm devices at higher wattages.
Nic salts aren't necessarily stronger - they just deliver nicotine more efficiently. A 20mg nic salt feels smoother than a 6mg freebase but delivers more nicotine per puff. You'll take fewer puffs to feel satisfied, making a 10ml bottle last 5-7 days for most ex-smokers. The "strength" comes from faster absorption rather than higher concentration - think espresso versus regular coffee.
Nic salts work best in low-wattage devices (10-25W) like pod kits - the Vaporesso XROS 5, OXVA Xlim Pro 3, or Uwell Caliburn series are perfect. Never use 20mg nic salts in sub-ohm tanks above 25W - you'll get too much nicotine too quickly and it'll taste burnt. For Direct-to-Lung vaping, stick to 3-6mg freebase e-liquids. Most starter kits and pod kits at Ecigone are nic salt compatible.
Public Health England states vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking, and this includes nic salts. They're made with pharmaceutical-grade nicotine and food-safe ingredients, tested to UK TPD standards. However, nicotine is still addictive - only use nic salts if you're quitting smoking or already vape. All our nic salts are from established brands with full UK compliance testing. Never buy from unregulated sources.
Nic salts actually enhance flavour clarity because they're smoother - you taste the flavour profile better without harsh throat hit interfering. The benzoic acid used is flavourless and odourless. Many vapers find nic salts deliver cleaner, more pronounced flavours than freebase, especially in fruit and menthol blends. Our bestselling ELFLIQ and Elux Legend ranges taste identical to their disposable vape flavours.
UK TPD regulations limit nic salts to 20mg/ml (2%) maximum. Common strengths are 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. Most ex-smokers start at 20mg, then reduce to 10mg after a few months. Light smokers might prefer 5mg. At Ecigone, 95% of our nic salts come in both 10mg and 20mg options, all priced at £1.99 regardless of strength. You can't legally buy anything stronger than 20mg in the UK.
Nic salts are ideal for: ex-smokers (20+ cigarettes daily), anyone struggling with cravings on freebase e-liquid, vapers who want discretion (fewer clouds), and those using pod kits or starter kits. They're perfect if you need quick nicotine satisfaction during work breaks. Not recommended for: cloud chasers, Direct-to-Lung vapers, or anyone who's never smoked. If you smoked less than 5 cigarettes daily, try 10mg first.
Yes - nic salts are the most effective e-liquid type for quitting smoking. They replicate the nicotine delivery of cigarettes (6-7 second absorption), satisfy cravings faster, and reduce the number of puffs needed. Studies show 20mg nic salts help heavy smokers quit more successfully than lower-strength freebase. Combined with a good pod kit (£15-30 at Ecigone), you'll save over £3,000 yearly versus a pack-a-day habit.
Nic salts aren't more addictive - nicotine is nicotine. However, faster absorption means you might develop habitual use patterns quicker. The addiction potential is the same as equivalent freebase nicotine strength, but satisfaction comes faster so you might vape less frequently. Most users find they need fewer puffs throughout the day with nic salts versus freebase.
Technically yes, but we don't recommend it. Mixing creates unpredictable nicotine absorption rates and can affect flavour. If you want to reduce strength, buy a lower mg nic salt or mix your 20mg with 0mg of the same flavour. Never mix different nicotine types in your tank - finish one before switching. Some advanced vapers mix them for specific effects, but beginners should avoid this.
Top devices for nic salts at Ecigone: Vaporesso XROS 5 (£23.99), OXVA Xlim Pro 3 (£22.99), Uwell Caliburn G4 Pro (£23.99), Voopoo Argus series (from £4.99), and Geekvape Wenax series (from £19.99). These all work at 10-25W with tight airflow perfect for mouth-to-lung vaping. Look for devices with 0.8-1.2ohm coils. Avoid sub-ohm tanks or anything over 30W for 20mg nic salts.
No, nic salts themselves aren't banned. However, disposable vapes containing nic salts are banned from June 2025 due to environmental concerns. You can still buy 10ml nic salt bottles (£1.99 at Ecigone) and refillable pod kits. This actually saves you money - one 10ml bottle equals 5 disposable vapes but costs 70% less. The ban only affects single-use disposables, not the bar salts e-liquid itself.
Your e-liquid consumption is actually lower with nic salts because you need fewer puffs for satisfaction. A 2ml pod of 20mg nic salt typically lasts 300-400 puffs (1-2 days for most users), while the same pod of 3mg freebase might only last 200 puffs as you vape more frequently. A 10ml bottle of nic salt fills your pod 5 times, lasting most ex-smokers 5-7 days.
No - never use 20mg nic salts in sub-ohm tanks. The high wattage (40W+) and increased vapour production delivers too much nicotine too quickly, causing nausea and headaches. Sub-ohm devices need 3-6mg freebase e-liquid maximum. If you want to use nic salts, get a dedicated MTL device like those in our pod kit collection. Keep your sub-ohm setup for cloud chasing with low-nicotine e-liquid.
Common side effects if you vape too much: mild headache, slight nausea, dizziness, or dry mouth. These usually mean you're getting too much nicotine - take a break or reduce strength. Staying hydrated helps. If you experience a racing heart, severe headache, or vomiting, stop immediately. Start with fewer puffs and build up gradually. Most side effects occur when people use wrong devices or vape continuously.
We strongly advise against it. Nicotine is addictive and unnecessary if you've never smoked. If you're determined to vape, start with 0mg nicotine e-liquid instead. Nicotine salts are specifically designed for smokers quitting cigarettes. Starting nicotine use when you don't need it makes no sense health-wise or financially. Ecigone supports harm reduction for smokers, not creating new nicotine users.
At Ecigone, all 10ml bottles cost £1.99 whether nic salt or freebase. However, you'll use less nic salt daily (3-5ml versus 10-15ml of freebase for sub-ohm), making them more economical. One bottle equals 5 disposables but costs 70% less. Compared to smoking, you'll save £10-15 daily. Buy 10 bottles for free delivery and save even more.
Yes, nic salts typically last 2 years unopened, 6-12 months once opened. Check the expiry date on the bottle. Store in a cool, dark place - not in direct sunlight or cars. Expired nic salt turns darker and may taste peppery. We rotate stock regularly at Ecigone so you always get fresh products with maximum shelf life. Don't stockpile more than 3-6 months' supply.
Ecigone stocks over 2000 nic salt flavours from trusted brands at £1.99 per bottle - the UK's best prices. We offer free next-day delivery on orders over £30, ship 7 days a week, and have won "Best Online Vape Store UK" five times. All products are genuine, TPD compliant, and in stock. Visit ecigone.co.uk or our retail stores. Avoid marketplace sellers - only buy from established vape retailers.
Shortfill E-Liquids FAQ's
Shortfill e-liquids are nicotine-free bottles of e-liquid that aren't completely filled, leaving space to add nicotine shots. For example, a 60ml bottle contains 50ml of e-liquid with 10ml empty space for your nicotine shot. They exist because UK TPD laws restrict nicotine-containing e-liquid to 10ml bottles maximum, but there's no size limit for nicotine-free e-liquid. At Ecigone, shortfills start from £4.99 for 50ml - that's 5x more e-liquid than a 10ml bottle for just over double the price.
TPD regulations (Tobacco Products Directive) limit nicotine-containing e-liquid to 10ml bottles in the UK. Shortfills bypass this by being nicotine-free, allowing larger bottles up to 200ml. You add nicotine separately using 10ml nicotine shots (which comply with TPD). This legal workaround gives you better value - a 120ml shortfill costs £9.99 at Ecigone versus £23.88 for twelve 10ml bottles.
Simple process: remove the shortfill's cap and nozzle, pour in your nicotine shot (sold separately), replace the nozzle and cap, then shake vigorously for 30 seconds. For 50ml shortfills, add one 18mg shot for 3mg strength. For 100ml, add two shots. Let it stand for 5 minutes before vaping. Pro tip: warm the bottle in your hands first - nicotine mixes easier.
A nicotine shot is a 10ml bottle of unflavoured nicotine in a PG/VG base, typically 18mg or 20mg strength. Mix it with shortfills to create your desired nicotine strength. Standard 18mg shots give you 3mg in a 60ml bottle. We stock regular shots (70/30 & 50/50 VG/PG), and nic salt shots for smoother throat hit. Prices start at 59p each which is the cheapest we found online.
Absolutely - shortfills are ready to vape straight away at 0mg nicotine. Perfect if you're stepping down from nicotine or just enjoy vaping for flavour. Many customers gradually reduce nicotine by using fewer shots over time. The flavour is actually more pronounced without nicotine. Just shake the bottle before use as ingredients can separate whilst standing for a while.
Major cost savings - 50ml shortfill at £4.99 versus five 10ml bottles at £9.95. You get more flavour variety (over 1,000 options at Ecigone), customisable nicotine strength (0mg to 6mg), and less plastic waste. Perfect for sub-ohm vapers who use 10-30ml daily. You can also mix flavours, adjust VG/PG ratios with different shots, and stockpile your favourites without breaking the bank.
Mixing takes 2 minutes versus ready-to-use 10ml bottles. You need to calculate nicotine strength (we have plenty of helpful guides). Not ideal for nic salt users as maximum strength is 6mg effectively. Accuracy depends on your mixing - though it's hard to get wrong. Need storage space for nicotine shots. Some premium flavours aren't available as shortfills. Less convenient for travelling than small bottles.
Standard formula: 50ml + one 18mg shot = 3mg strength. 100ml + two 18mg shots = 3mg. For 6mg, use 20mg shots or double the shots. For 1.5mg, use one 9mg shot or half an 18mg shot. If you’re still unsure, we have a helpful nicotine mixing guide to follow. Most sub-ohm vapers use 3mg, while MTL users might want 6mg. Never exceed the bottle's empty space - it'll overflow.
Check the VG/PG ratio first. High VG shortfills (70/30) work best in sub-ohm tanks above 40W. 50/50 shortfills suit pod kits and MTL devices under 25W. Using thick high VG in a pod kit clogs coils quickly and will usually taste burnt. Using thin 50/50 in sub-ohm tanks causes leaking and spitback. Match your shortfill to your device - we specify compatibility on every product page.
Yes, if you follow instructions. The mixing process is straightforward - like adding squash to water. We recommend beginners start with 50ml bottles to get comfortable with mixing. If you’re ever unsure, reach out and our team can talk you through it. Many beginners prefer the cost savings over convenience. Start with popular, simple flavours before trying complex blends.
Slightly - nicotine adds a mild peppery note and can mute sweet flavours by 5-10%. Premium shortfills are formulated expecting nicotine addition, so flavours are balanced accordingly. Using nic salt shots instead of freebase reduces flavour impact. The difference is minimal - most vapers don't notice after a few puffs. Steeping for 24 hours helps flavours blend.
Mixed shortfills last 6-12 months if stored properly - cool, dark place, cap secured. Unmixed shortfills last 2 years. Once mixed, nicotine gradually oxidises, darkening the liquid and strengthening the throat hit. Date your bottles when mixing. Don't mix more than 3 months' supply. Fresh mixing gives the best flavour. Check colour - if it's very dark or smells off, replace it.
Yes, but start with compatible profiles - fruits with fruits, desserts with desserts. Mix 50/50 for balanced flavour or 70/30 to accent one flavour. Test in small amounts first (10ml). Popular combos: strawberry + cream, mango + ice, coffee + caramel. Don't mix menthol with desserts usually. Keep notes of successful mixes. Some vapers create signature blends this way.
Significantly - you save 40-60% per ml. Example: 50ml shortfill (£4.99) + nic shot (£0.59) = £5.58 for 60ml. That's 10p per ml. Equivalent in 10ml bottles = £11.94 (20p per ml). Heavy vapers using 10ml daily save £180+ yearly with shortfills. Bulk buying during Ecigone sales saves even more. The only extra cost is nicotine shots.
Practically 6mg when mixed properly, though TPD doesn't restrict shortfill strength since you're mixing at home. Using 2x 20mg shots in 50ml gives 6.6mg. You could theoretically make it stronger, but it requires multiple shots and reduces flavour quality. For strengths above 6mg, stick to 10ml bottles. Most sub-ohm vapers find 3mg perfect anyway as they’re typically designed for this.
Perfect for sub-ohm - most shortfills are 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG specifically for cloud chasing. The thick consistency wicks properly in sub-ohm coils at 40-80W. Popular sub-ohm shortfills at Ecigone include Five Pawns, Doozy Seriously, and Zeus Juice. Just ensure your tank handles thick liquid - mesh coils work best. Not recommended for plus-ohm coils or tight MTL draws.
Quality shortfills are pre-steeped, but 24-48 hours after mixing helps nicotine integrate fully. Dessert and tobacco flavours benefit from 3-7 days steeping. Fruit and menthol flavours are usually good immediately. Steeping process: mix, shake, remove cap for 2 hours (oxidation), cap and store in a dark place, shake daily. Patience improves complex flavours noticeably.
Yes - specifically for pod kits and MTL vaping. At Ecigone, brands like Perfect Vape, Zeus Juice, and Seriously Pod Fill offer 50/50 shortfills from £4.99. They're thinner consistency, perfect for pod kits under 25W, provide better throat hit, and work in all seasons without thickening. Add regular or nic salt shots depending on preference.
Yes, with 50/50 shortfills specifically designed for MTL. Regular 70/30 shortfills are too thick for MTL coils and don't provide enough throat hit. 50/50 shortfills work perfectly in devices like Vaporesso XROS, OXVA Xlim, or Aspire Zelos kits. Mix with nic salt shots for smoother 6mg strength perfect for MTL. We have a dedicated 50/50 shortfill section.
Ecigone stocks over 2,000 shortfill flavours from £4.99 with all the best vape liquid brands from around the world. We're the UK's largest shortfill retailer with exclusive flavours and bulk deals. Free next-day delivery over £30, 7-day dispatch, and weekly offers. All products are genuine, TPD compliant, and in stock. Check our shortfill collection at ecigone.co.uk.
50/50 Shortfill E-Liquids FAQs
50/50 shortfills are nicotine-free e-liquids with equal parts Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG), designed for Mouth-to-Lung vaping and pod kits. Unlike regular 70/30 shortfills made for sub-ohm tanks, these work perfectly in low-wattage devices (10-20W). You get the cost benefits of larger bottles with the performance of traditional 50/50 e-liquid. At Ecigone, 50/50 shortfills start from £3.99 for 50ml.
The ratio completely changes performance. 50/50 is thinner, wicks faster in small coils, provides stronger throat hit, uses less e-liquid per puff, and produces discrete vapour clouds. High VG (70/30+) is thicker, needs bigger wicking ports, smoothier throat hit, creates massive clouds, and suits sub-ohm vaping above 30W. Choose 50/50 for pod kits and MTL, high VG for cloud chasing.
Not recommended - 50/50 is too thin for sub-ohm coils, causing flooding, spitback, and leaking. The high PG content creates harsh throat hit at high wattages, making it uncomfortable above 25W. You'll burn through juice rapidly and might damage coils. Stick to 70/30 minimum for sub-ohm. If you must use 50/50 in sub-ohm, stay below 20W and close airflow significantly.
Perfect throat hit for ex-smokers, enhanced flavour clarity (PG carries flavour better), economical - use 3-5ml daily versus 20ml+ with sub-ohm, ideal for stealth vaping with minimal clouds, and compatible with all pod kits and starter kits. You save money versus buying 10ml bottles while maintaining the MTL experience smokers need.
Same process as regular shortfills, but consider using 50/50 nicotine shots to maintain the ratio. For a smoother experience, use nic salt shots - they're perfect in 50/50 blends. One 18mg shot in 50ml gives 3mg, or use 20mg nic salt shots for 3.3mg with smoother throat hit. Many MTL vapers prefer 6mg - use two nic shots or one double-strength shot.
Excellent for beginners, especially ex-smokers. The 50/50 ratio mimics cigarette draw resistance, provides familiar throat sensation, works in affordable starter kits (£15-30), and doesn't require high-wattage devices or cloud knowledge. Easy mixing process and more forgiving than high VG if you make mistakes. Most Ecigone starter kit customers choose 50/50 shortfills.
Yes, significantly less - that's actually the point. 50/50 produces discrete vapour similar to cigarette smoke, perfect for vaping at work, public spaces, or when you don't want attention. The clouds dissipate quickly, don't fog up rooms, and won't trigger smoke alarms as easily. If you want big clouds, choose 70/30+ VG shortfills instead.
Absolutely - they're ready to vape at 0mg. The throat hit from PG partially replaces nicotine sensation, making them satisfying even nicotine-free. Perfect for gradually quitting nicotine or social vaping. The 50/50 ratio provides enough sensation to feel like you're actually vaping something, unlike high VG which feels too smooth without nicotine.
Realistically 6mg for optimal flavour and throat hit. Using two 20mg shots in 50ml gives you 6.6mg. Higher is possible but requires multiple shots, diluting flavour significantly. Most MTL vapers find 3-6mg perfect in 50/50 blends. If you need stronger, consider 10ml bottles at 10-20mg instead. The throat hit from PG means you need less nicotine than high VG blends.
Same price at Ecigone - From £4.99 on some 100ml bottles regardless of ratio. However, you use less daily (3-5ml versus 15-30ml with sub-ohm), making them more economical long-term. One 50ml bottle lasts most MTL vapers 10-15 days. Factor in cheaper coils for MTL devices (£2 each, lasting 2 weeks) versus sub-ohm (£4 each, lasting 1 week).
Less than high VG typically. The higher PG content means flavours blend faster - usually ready after 24 hours mixing. Fruit and menthol flavours are immediate, desserts benefit from 2-3 days, tobaccos might need a week. The thinner consistency means molecules mix more readily. Shake well after adding nicotine and daily during steeping.
Yes, and they blend easier than high VG due to thinner consistency. Popular mixes: tobacco + caramel, menthol + fruit, berries + ice. Start with 25ml of each to test. The higher PG means flavours are more pronounced, so go easy on strong flavours like menthol or aniseed. Keep ratios identical when mixing to maintain performance.
Growing range but less than high VG options. Popular flavours prioritised: fruits, menthols, tobaccos, and simple desserts. At Ecigone, we stock 200+ 50/50 shortfill flavours from brands like Zeus Juice, Doozy Seriously Pod Fill, and Perfect Bar. New flavours added weekly as manufacturers recognise pod kit popularity. Check our 50/50 section for latest additions.
Not suitable for Direct-to-Lung. The thin consistency floods DTL coils, high PG creates unbearable throat hit at DTL wattages (40W+), and you'll consume juice too quickly. DTL requires 70/30 minimum, preferably 80/20 for smooth clouds. If switching from DTL to MTL, 50/50 shortfills are perfect for your new setup.
Shelf life is 2 years unopened, 6-12 months mixed. Daily usage: 50ml lasts 10-15 days for average MTL vapers (3-5ml daily). Compare to sub-ohm where 50ml might last 2-3 days. The higher PG content acts as preservative, potentially lasting longer than high VG once mixed. Store properly and they'll maintain quality throughout their lifespan.
Perfect match - pod kits are designed for 50/50 ratios. Works flawlessly in Vaporesso XROS, OXVA Xlim, Uwell Caliburn, Voopoo Argus, and all pod mods under 25W. The thin consistency wicks properly in small pod coils, doesn't clog cotton, and provides optimal flavour and throat hit. This is exactly what 50/50 shortfills are designed for. We’d recommend using pod coils 0.6 and above.
Less flavour muting than high VG because PG carries flavour better. Nicotine adds a slight peppery note but doesn't overwhelm the profile. Using nic salt shots minimises flavour impact further. The pronounced flavour in 50/50 means you still taste everything clearly at 3-6mg strength. Premium brands formulate expecting nicotine addition.
No - 50/50 produces minimal clouds by design. Cloud chasing needs maximum VG (80/20 or 90/10), high wattage devices (60W+), and specific airflow setups. 50/50 shortfills create thin, quickly dissipating vapour. If clouds are your goal, check our high VG shortfill collection. 50/50 is for flavour and throat hit, not cloud production.
Yes - 50ml and 100ml sizes common, some brands offer 200ml. Larger bottles offer better value: 100ml at £8.99 versus two 50ml at £9.98. Perfect for daily vapers who've found their favourite flavour. The 100ml bottles leave 20ml space for two nic shots. Check individual products as not all flavours come in larger sizes.
Ecigone specialises in 50/50 shortfills with 200+ flavours from £4.99. Dedicated section for MTL vapers, free nic shots on orders over £30, regular multi-buy deals, and expert advice on pod kit compatibility. Free next-day delivery over £30, genuine products only, and 5-star service. Visit our 50/50 shortfill collection at ecigone.co.uk.
Regulation and Upcoming Tax on Vape Juice FAQs
The UK follows TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) regulations: maximum 10ml bottles for nicotine e-liquid, 2ml maximum tank/pod capacity, 20mg/ml (2%) maximum nicotine strength, child-resistant packaging required, and health warnings on packaging. All products need MHRA notification before sale. Advertising restrictions apply but are less strict than cigarettes. Age verification required for all sales (18+). These rules keep vaping safer while remaining accessible for smokers quitting.
Single-use disposable vapes are banned from 1st June 2025 across England, Scotland, and Wales. The ban targets environmental waste (5 million disposables binned weekly) and youth vaping concerns. Rechargeable devices, refillable pod kits, and e-liquids remain legal. Retailers can sell existing stock until June 2025. At Ecigone, we're helping customers transition to pod kits that cost 70% less than disposables anyway.
From October 2026, a new excise duty applies: £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid regardless of nicotine content. A 50ml shortfill will add £11 tax, 100ml adds £22. This flat-rate tax applies to all vape liquids including 0mg. Current 20% VAT remains on top. At Ecigone, we're stocking up to maintain lower prices as long as possible.
Yes - the £2.20 per 10ml tax applies to all vape liquids, even 0mg nicotine. This surprised many vapers expecting only nicotine products taxed. The government argues all vape products need regulating regardless of nicotine content. DIY mixing ingredients (raw PG/VG) might be exempt if not marketed for vaping. Flavour concentrates in non-vaping packaging may avoid tax.
Significant increases expected: 10ml bottles rise from £1.99 to £4.19 minimum, 50ml shortfills from £4.99 to £15.99, 100ml from £8.99 to £30.99. Still cheaper than smoking (£15 daily for 20 cigarettes versus £4-6 daily vaping post-tax). Ecigone will absorb some cost where possible, but 110-220% price increases are unavoidable on e-liquids.
Official reasons: discourage youth vaping while keeping vaping affordable versus smoking, raise £500 million annually for NHS, bring UK in line with other European countries, and regulate the growing industry. Critics argue it penalises smokers trying to quit and may push people back to cigarettes or black market products. The tax rate is deliberately lower than tobacco duty to maintain vaping's cost advantage.
From October 2026, all vape products need official duty stamps proving tax is paid, similar to cigarette stamps. Digital tracking system monitors supply chain, retailers must verify stamps before sale, and heavy penalties for unstamped products. Consumers should only buy stamped products from legitimate retailers. Ecigone will ensure full compliance with all stamped, verified products.
Yes, if ingredients are sold for vaping purposes. Nicotine shots are definitely taxed at £2.20 per 10ml. VG/PG sold as "vaping base" will be taxed. However, pharmaceutical-grade VG/PG sold for other purposes might avoid tax. Flavour concentrates not marketed for vaping could be exempt. The grey area will likely close as regulations tighten.
Currently no exemptions are planned - all vape liquids taxed equally. Medical prescription e-cigarettes (if approved) might be exempt. Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gums) remains tax-free. CBD vapes uncertain - may depend on marketing. Export products exempt until point of UK sale. No reduced rate for lower nicotine or smaller bottles planned.
Manufacturers and importers pay tax before products reach retailers. Duty stamps prove payment, digital systems track movement, and retailers can't legally sell unstamped products. Similar to alcohol/tobacco duty. Consumers won't pay separately - it's built into retail price. HMRC conducts regular inspections with severe penalties for non-compliance.
Illegal with serious consequences: products can be confiscated, retailers face unlimited fines and criminal prosecution, consumers may be questioned about sources, and no guarantee of product safety or authenticity. Only buy from established retailers like Ecigone who guarantee compliance. Saving a few pounds isn't worth the risks of untested, potentially dangerous products.
Yes - all UK retailers must comply regardless of sales channel. International orders may be seized at customs without duty stamps. Marketplace sellers (eBay, Amazon) are heavily monitored. Price comparison sites will show post-tax prices. Ecigone's online prices will include all taxes with clear labelling. We'll maintain competitive pricing through bulk buying and efficiency.
Yes, significantly. Post-tax vaping costs approximately £5-7 daily for average users versus £15+ for pack-a-day smokers. Annual savings still exceed £2,500. Higher initial device cost (£20-50) pays for itself within weeks. The tax maintains vaping's financial advantage to support smoking cessation while discouraging non-smokers from starting.
The government still endorses vaping for quitting smoking. NHS continues recommending vaping as effective cessation tool, Public Health England maintains "95% less harmful" position, and stop-smoking services provide vaping support. Tax deliberately lower than cigarettes to maintain cessation incentive. Focus on preventing youth vaping while supporting adult smokers switching.
No confirmed restrictions yet, but consultations ongoing. Potential changes: ban on dessert/sweet flavours appealing to youth, plain packaging requirements, and restricted flavour names (no cartoon characters). Tobacco and menthol are likely to remain. Adult-oriented flavours (coffee, tobacco) probably safe. Ecigone monitoring developments closely - we'll keep customers informed of any changes.
Expect tighter controls: enhanced age verification systems, plain packaging possibilities, advertising restrictions increasing, track-and-trace expansion, and potential nicotine strength reductions. Prescription vaping might develop. Focus on preventing youth access while maintaining adult smoker access. Industry professionalisation continues. Ecigone will adapt to ensure full compliance while serving adult customers.
Buy only from established retailers with physical premises or legitimate websites. Check for duty stamps (from October 2026), verify retailers have age verification, and ensure products have required health warnings and MHRA codes. Avoid marketplace sellers, suspiciously cheap products, and imported products without UK compliance. Ecigone guarantees all products are genuine, tested, and legally compliant.
Massive shift to refillable devices: pod kit sales up 300% already, customers saving 70% switching from disposables, and environmental impact reduced dramatically. Major brands like ELFBAR, Lost Mary, and SKE Crystal now focus on pod kits. E-liquid sales are increasing as people discover flavour variety. Ecigone is ready with the UK's largest pod kit range and expert switching advice.
Currently 18+ (Challenge 25 policy). Proposals include: mandatory ID scanning for all sales, central age verification database, stricter online verification, and heavier penalties for underage sales. Social media advertising to be restricted further. Ecigone uses industry-leading age verification and never knowingly sells to under-18s.
Official sources: GOV.UK vaping regulations page, MHRA website for product standards, Trading Standards for enforcement updates, and UKVIA (UK Vaping Industry Association) for industry interpretation. Ecigone blog regularly updates on regulatory changes. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed. Always verify information from official sources before making decisions.
Longfill E-Liquids FAQs
Longfills are concentrated flavour extracts in large bottles, requiring you to add VG, PG, and nicotine to create finished e-liquid. Unlike shortfills (pre-mixed minus nicotine), longfills are just flavouring - typically 20ml of concentrate in a 120ml bottle. You add base liquids to create your perfect blend. At Ecigone, longfills start from £7.99, making up to 120ml of e-liquid - that's 6p per ml when mixed.
Fundamental difference: shortfills are ready-mixed e-liquid (just add nicotine), while longfills are flavour concentrate only. Shortfills need one ingredient (nicotine), longfills need three (VG, PG, nicotine). Longfills offer complete customisation of VG/PG ratio and nicotine type, shortfills are pre-set ratios. Longfills are cheaper per ml but require more preparation and knowledge.
Never - it's dangerous and will destroy your device. Pure flavour concentrate is too thick, contains undiluted flavouring chemicals unsafe for direct inhalation, will burn instantly and taste terrible, and crystallises on coils causing permanent damage. Always dilute properly - typically 15-20% flavouring to 80-85% base liquids. Follow manufacturer's recommended ratios exactly.
Calculate your mix: for 120ml at 70/30 VG/PG, 3mg nicotine - add 70ml VG, 24ml PG, and two 18mg nicotine shots (10ml each). Pour ingredients into a longfill bottle (flavour already inside), secure cap and shake vigorously for 60 seconds. Steep for 2-7 days depending on flavour profile. Label with mix date and ratios. Ecigone sells complete mixing kits with measuring cylinders.
Ultimate customisation - choose exact VG/PG ratio and nicotine type/strength. Incredible value - 120ml costs under £15 mixed versus £36 in 10ml bottles. Make unique blends by combining concentrates. Adjust flavour intensity to preference. Create nic salt or freebase versions from the same concentrate. Perfect for vapers who know their exact preferences. Less waste than pre-made liquids.
Complexity - requires understanding of mixing ratios and safety. Initial cost for base ingredients and equipment (£20-30 setup). Time consuming - 10 minutes mixing plus steeping days. Easy to make mistakes that ruin batches. Storage space needed for ingredients. Not convenient for casual vapers. Messy if spilled. Calculate incorrectly and waste expensive ingredients.
Yes - mix with 50/50 PG/VG base for MTL devices. Add nic salt shots for a smoother throat hit at 6-12mg. The beauty of longfills is creating exactly what your device needs. For MTL: 40-60% PG gives proper throat hit and wicking. Many convert favourite sub-ohm flavours to MTL strength using longfills.
Perfect for sub-ohm - mix 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG for cloud production. Most longfills are designed expecting sub-ohm use at 3mg nicotine. High VG mixes create dense clouds while preserving flavour. Customise to your exact coil requirements. Popular with cloud chasers who want premium flavours at budget prices.
Any strength from 0mg to 20mg theoretically. Practically: 1.5mg, 3mg, 6mg, 9mg, 12mg common. Use nicotine shots (18-20mg) or pure nicotine base (72mg - requires careful handling). Calculate carefully - too much nicotine ruins the batch and wastes money. Most users stick to 3-6mg for optimal flavour. Online calculators help prevent mistakes.
Yes, more than other e-liquid types. Minimum 48 hours, ideally 3-7 days. Desserts and tobaccos need 1-2 weeks. Steeping blends flavour molecules with base liquids properly. Process: mix thoroughly, remove cap briefly, store in dark place, shake daily. Patience rewards with superior flavour. Some ultrasonic steep for faster results.
Advanced technique but yes - create signature blends. Start with compatible profiles (fruits together, desserts together). Mix concentrates before adding base - easier to adjust. Standard starting point: 10% of each flavour (20% total in base). Popular combos: strawberry + cream, coffee + caramel, menthol + any fruit. Document successful recipes. Some flavours overpower - use less.
Not recommended for complete beginners. Requires understanding of: mixing ratios, nicotine safety, PG/VG properties, steeping process, and flavour percentages. Start with shortfills, learn basics, then advance to longfills. If determined, buy pre-made base (already mixed VG/PG/nicotine) to simplify. Ecigone staff can guide you, but shortfills are easier starting points.
Unopened concentrate: 2+ years. Mixed e-liquid: 6-12 months properly stored. Once opened, use within 6 months for best flavour. Concentrates are stable, but exposure to air degrades flavouring compounds gradually. Mixed liquid follows standard e-liquid lifespan. Buy concentrates you'll use within 3 months. Store in cool, dark places always.
Excellent for cloud chasing - create maximum VG blends (85-90% VG). High VG produces dense clouds while concentrate provides flavour. Customise for competition requirements. Add no nicotine or minimal (1.5mg) for smoother clouds. Popular with cloud competitors who need specific ratios. Much cheaper than buying premium high VG liquids.
Huge range but not everything. Popular profiles well-represented: fruits, desserts, menthols, tobaccos, drinks. Premium and complex flavours are common. Some disposable-inspired flavours unavailable. At Ecigone: 300+ longfill options from brands like Just Juice, Dripping Dessert, and Doozy Pod Fill Max. New releases monthly as manufacturers recognise demand.
Depends on mix accuracy and steeping. Properly mixed and steeped tastes identical to premium e-liquid - it's the same process manufacturers use. Under-flavoured if too diluted, harsh if over-concentrated. Flavour develops during steeping - improves daily for first week. Final taste depends on base quality too - use pharmaceutical grade VG/PG.
Yes - Direct-to-Lung vapers benefit most from longfills. Create optimal 70-80% VG blends for smooth lung hits. Adjust flavour concentration for increased airflow (DTL dilutes flavour). Standard 3mg nicotine perfect for DTL. Cost savings significant for DTL users consuming 20-30ml daily. Customise exactly for your tank specifications.
Most economical option for committed vapers. 120ml longfill (£8-12) plus base ingredients (£5) equals £13-17 for 120ml. That's 11-14p per ml versus 20p for 10ml bottles or 15p for shortfills. Heavy vapers save £300+ annually. Initial ingredient investment (£30) pays off within weeks. Only beaten by pure DIY mixing from raw concentrates.
Nothing, Longfills are made to be simple and easy to use. They come with clear instructions on how to use, mix and steep. Most are 20ml of e-liquid concentrate in a 60ml bottle, with space for exactly 4 x 10ml nic shots. So simply remove the cap on the longfill, empty in all 4 nic shots, give it a good shake, leave to stand for a couple of hours and you’re ready to go. Further steeping will only enhance the flavour, so is recommended for more complex dessert flavours of up to a week or two.
Ecigone stocks 120+ longfill flavour concentrates from leading brands, with mixing supplies and base ingredients available. Free mixing guide with orders, bulk discounts on multiple bottles, and expert advice via phone or chat. All products TPD compliant and safety tested. Visit our longfill section at ecigone.co.uk. Perfect for experienced vapers wanting maximum value and customisation.
