What Is Dripping and Is It Safe?

You may have heard of the term ‘dripping’ when used in connection to smoking and vaping, but many people aren’t aware of what it is, what it does and why others are doing it. Dripping has been around for a while now, but recently it has gained popularity and has become a trend among young people. In fact, a study shows that 1 in 4 of those under 20 who smoke e-cigarettes have tried it.

Despite its seemingly increasing popularity, there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding dripping, with vapers still unsure of what it is and why an e-juice user may choose to do it. Even those that have been vaping for a while are finding themselves unsure of this new trend and unaware of whether they should be giving it a go.

To help you to understand dripping, we’ve answered some of the key questions we’re often asked, from exactly what it is to whether or not it is safe.

Understanding Dripping: FAQs

What Is Dripping?

Dripping is a way to smoke e-juice that is somewhat different to how it was intended. Instead of filing the correct part of the e-cigarette with e-liquid, vapers use the heated atomizer coil to vape instead. This is done by dripping a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the coil itself and then smoking.

Why Are People Dripping?

There are a few different reasons why someone may choose dripping over the conventional way of using an e-cig. These include:

• Dripping produces much denser vapor clouds and a stronger flavor, which gives a better hit.
• Dripping creates bigger vapor clouds that are more impressive; this is important for those that are interested in inhaling from large clouds, or showing off their cloud vaping skills.
• Dripping is good for those that want to smoke a variety of different e-liquid flavors in one sitting, as tanks don’t need to be cleaned or switched between use.

Is Dripping Safe?

There has been a focus in the media as to whether or not dripping is safe, and there are conflicting opinions. The main concern with dripping is that it heats the e-liquid to a much higher temperature and this has been linked to an increased amount of toxins entering the body through vaping. Many smokers switch to vaping as it is thought of as being better than smoking, but dripping raises similar concerns. Another concern is that as dripping involves putting the e-liquid directly onto the coil, there is an increased risk of getting e-liquid on your skin. The nicotine in the juice is quickly absorbed into skin and accidental exposure can cause problems.

Whether or not you deem dripping safe is dependent on your personal thoughts on vaping. Some see it as being no different to the standard method of vaping, while others view it as a dangerous way to put a higher concentration of toxins into your body. It is important to bear in mind that dripping is not how vaping was intended to work and therefore it should be done only on occasion, rather than becoming your go-to method of consuming e-juice.

How Is Dripping Done?

There is an art to dripping; it isn’t simply a case of putting e-liquid onto the coil and getting started. In fact, a lot of trial and error is involved. Most dripping novices will start by putting two or three drops onto the coil at first and this will create around eight to ten draws before the flavor goes. As you become more experienced, then more drops can be added, but it’s best to avoid this at first as it can cause leaks into the battery or mouth.

Some e-liquids work better for dripping than others, but finding out which is personal preference along with experimentation. Some will provide a stronger hit, some will provide flavor for a longer amount of time and some will simply taste better - it’s a case of finding out what works for you. There are some tools that have been designed with dripping in mind, to make it both better and more enjoyable; these include drip tips, dripping atomizers and drip shields. Not everyone who drips will use these, but they are there for those who want them.

If you are considering dripping it is important to have a good base of information and a lot of knowledge before you start. Dripping incorrectly can be dangerous and as with all types of vaping, the aim is to smoke enjoyably but safely. Start small with dripping and build up your drops and frequency as you become more used to the process. Remember, the hits are often stronger and therefore should be approached with caution.