Electronic cigarettes are still fairly new and, as a result, they are often misunderstood. Some of these misconceptions are caused by faulty logic and others are caused by misunderstanding. Either way, the following four electronic cigarette myths simply aren’t true.
Myth 1: Electronic Cigarettes Encourage Minors to Start Smoking
While it is true that minors can legally own electronic cigarettes since they are not classified as a tobacco product, many vendors have their own policies in place that prevent them from selling electronic cigarettes to minors. Plus, many minors view electronic cigarettes as a device to help people stop smoking, making them less appealing than regular cigarettes.
Myth 2: Electronic Cigarettes Are Just As Dangerous As Traditional Cigarettes
Electronic cigarettes contain a tiny fraction of the dangerous chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. While more testing needs to be done before they can be pronounced 100 percent safe, several studies have already shown that electronic cigarettes are a healthier alternative.
Myth 3: Electronic Cigarettes Are “Gateway” Cigarettes
Because of their high cost and the fact that they are marketed towards people who want to stop smoking—not start—electronic cigarettes generally hold little appeal for people who are not smoking already. Plus, many people find that they taste worse than traditional cigarettes so new users would be less likely to stick with them.
Myth 4: Electronic Cigarettes Are Designed to Help People Quit Smoking
While many people have successfully used electronic cigarettes to quit smoking, electronic cigarettes are not technically classified as an anti-smoking aid. Instead, they are simply supposed to be a healthier alternative to smoking. They give people the smoking sensation without the harmful effects of tobacco and all the dangerous chemicals that traditional cigarettes contain.
People who are interested in trying electronic cigarettes and people who know people who use them are encouraged to read more about electronic cigarettes so they can know the facts. Then, they can make their own educated decision.