The Science Behind Nic Salts: Why They Hit So Smooth

December 9, 2025

Discover why nic salts feel smoother, hit faster and offer cigarette-like satisfaction. Learn the science, benefits, and top nic salt e-liquids to try today.

The Science Behind Nic Salts: Why They Hit So Smooth

For millions of new vapers, the first real turning point in quitting cigarettes came with the introduction of nicotine salts which are a smoother, faster-acting form of nicotine that feels much closer to smoking than traditional freebase e-liquid. Whether you have just picked up your first pod kit or you are switching from disposables, you have probably heard the term “nic salts” everywhere. But what exactly makes them feel so smooth? Why do they hit differently? And why are they the go-to option for modern mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping?

In this beginner-friendly guide, we'll break down the science in the simplest way possible, no chemistry degree needed. We'll explain how nic salts work inside the body, why they deliver a gentler throat hit, and how they've reshaped the entire pod vaping experience. You'll also discover some of the best nic salt e-liquids available at Vape Suite, with flavours and prices included to help you find your perfect match.

What Exactly Are Nic Salts?

Nicotine salts - often called nic salts - are a smoother, more stable type of nicotine created by combining pure nicotine with an organic acid. In the vaping world, the most commonly used acid is benzoic acid, which isn't harmful at the low levels used and plays a crucial role in how nic salts feel.

In freebase nicotine (what older e-liquids use), the nicotine molecule has a higher pH which makes it feel harsh at stronger strengths. But when benzoic acid is added, the pH drops to a more comfortable level which results in the form of nicotine that delivers:

A smoother throat hit, even at 20mg
Faster absorption into the bloodstream
A more cigarette-like satisfaction
A gentler, easier inhale

This is why nic salts became the gold standard for beginners, ex-smokers, and disposable users transitioning to refillable pod systems.

Why Nic Salts Feel Smoother: The Science in Simple Terms

Nic salts feel smoother mainly because they have a lower pH level than freebase nicotine. Lower pH equals less harshness which results in easier inhale. That's the secret.

In practical terms, this means that instead of experiencing a sharp “kick” at the back of the throat, you get a cleaner, more refined inhale - something much closer to the feeling of smoking a cigarette.

Nic salts also vapourise at lower temperatures, which means they stay smooth even in low-power pod kits. This is why most nic salt users prefer simple MTL devices: they don't need big clouds or high wattage to get full flavour and strong satisfaction.

Nic Salts vs Freebase Nicotine: A Simple Visual Comparison

Feature	Nic Salts	Freebase Nicotine
Throat Hit	Smooth & gentle	Strong, can be harsh
Nicotine Strength	High (10mg–20mg)	Low to medium (3mg–12mg)
Absorption Speed	Fast (similar to smoking)	Slower
Best For	Beginners, ex-smokers, pod users	Sub-ohm clouds, low strength users
Flavour Intensity	Strong, bold	More open, lighter
Device Compatibility	MTL pods	Sub-ohm kits

If you want a cigarette-like experience, nic salts are almost always the better option.

Who Should Use Nic Salts?

Nic salts are ideal for:

New vapers switching from cigarettes
Users who want strong nicotine without harshness
Pod kit lovers
Disposable users switching to refillable devices
Anyone who prefers smoothness over throat punch

If you vape mainly for the nicotine and want the experience to feel effortless and satisfying, nic salts are the perfect fit.

Top Nic Salt E-Liquids for a Smooth, Satisfying Hit

Now that you understand why nic salts feel so smooth, let's explore some of the best options available at Vape Suite. These ranges offer exceptional flavour quality, great value, and excellent performance in all MTL pod kits.

Each one is TPD-compliant, uses a 50/50 VG/PG blend, and is perfectly designed for smooth, flavourful, cigarette-like vaping.

1. Elux 10ml Nicotine Salts E-Liquid

A favourite for disposable lovers transitioning to refillable pod kits, Elux Nic Salts deliver bold, vibrant flavours with the same profile consistency Elux is known for.

Specifications:

10ml nic salt bottles
Available in 10mg & 20mg
50/50 VG/PG
Designed for MTL devices
TPD compliant

Prominent Flavours

Apple Peach
Banana Ice
Blueberry Sour Raspberry
Cherry Ice
Summer Dream
Triple Mango

Price: £2.95 | Any 4 for £10 | Any 10 for £20

Elux salts are perfect for anyone craving disposable-style intensity in pod form.

2. Hayati Pro Max Nic Salt Shisha Range

For vapers who love rich, layered, Arabian-inspired flavours, the Hayati Pro Max Shisha Range is unmatched. Each flavour feels deep, aromatic, and long-lasting, making it ideal for evening vaping or those who love exotic blends.

Specs:

10ml bottles
10mg & 20mg strengths
50/50 VG/PG
32 unique shisha-inspired flavours
TPD compliant

Highlighted Flavours:

Apple Mint Grape
Blue Mist Pink
Double Apple
Frozen Apple Raspberry
Lemon & Lime
Lucid Dream
Magic Love

Price: £3.99

If you enjoy traditional shisha profiles softened into a modern nic salt format, this range is a must-try.

3. IVG Intense Nic Salts E-Liquid

Known for award-winning flavour engineering, IVG Intense offers some of the cleanest, strongest flavour blends on the UK market - especially for menthol lovers and disposable switchers.

Specs:

10ml size
10mg & 20mg
50/50 VG/PG
Childproof cap
TPD compliant

Popular Flavours:

Banana Ice
Blue Razz Lemonade
Kiwi Passionfruit Guava
Sour Green Apple
Strawberry Watermelon
Triple Mango

Price: £20.00 (Box of 10)

IVG Intense salts deliver exceptional smoothness while keeping flavour crisp and refreshing.

4. Bar Juice 5000 Nic Salt E-Liquids

Designed to mimic popular disposable flavours, Bar Juice 5000 is one of the most affordable and flavour-accurate nic salt ranges available in the UK - perfect for saving money while keeping taste and performance high.

Specs:

10ml bottles
10mg / 20mg strengths
50/50 VG/PG
Ideal for all MTL devices
TPD compliant

Flavours Available:

Apple Peach
Berry Crush
Fresh Mint
Grape
Kiwi Passionfruit Guava
Red Apple Ice
Strawberry Ice Cream

Price: £2.95 | Any 4 for £10

If you want disposable-style flavour without the disposable price tag, Bar Juice is perfect.

5. RTB liq Nic Salt 10ml E-liquid

A rising favourite for budget-conscious vapers, RTB liq Nic Salts offer strong flavour output at a very cost-effective price point - especially when buying in bulk.

Specs:

10ml bottles
10mg strength
50/50 VG/PG
TPD compliant

Flavours:

Blueberry Raspberries
Cherry Ice
Juicy Peach
Pink Lemonade
Strawberry Banana
Triple Mango
Watermelon Ice

Price: £32 (Box of 10)

These salts are excellent for everyday vaping and consistent flavour at great value.

Nic Salt Strengths: Which Should You Choose?

Here's a simple guide:

Strength	Best For
10mg Nic Salt	Light smokers or casual vapers
20mg Nic Salt	Ex-smokers, disposable users, people craving stronger satisfaction

If you're replacing cigarettes or disposables, most people start with 20mg and then reduce over time.

Are Nic Salts Safe? A Realistic Explanation

Nic salts are no more dangerous than standard e-liquids. They use the same pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and follow strict TPD regulations in the UK.

However, three important points:

They are not designed for sub-ohm devices.
They deliver nicotine faster, so use them responsibly.
They are ideal for adult smokers and vapers - not non-smokers.

When used correctly, nic salts remain one of the most effective and satisfying alternatives to smoking.

FAQ: Nic Salts Explained

1. Are nic salts stronger than regular e-liquid?

They feel stronger because they absorb faster, but the nicotine amount is regulated (10mg or 20mg).

2. Do nic salts hit faster?

Yes. Nic salts reach the bloodstream more quickly, creating a sensation similar to smoking.

3. Can I use nic salts in any vape kit?

No - they work best in low-power MTL pod kits. Avoid using them in sub-ohm devices.

4. Are nic salts harsh on the throat?

Not at all. They are smoother than freebase, which is why beginners love them.

5. Are nic salts good for quitting smoking?

Many ex-smokers prefer nic salts because they mimic the feeling of cigarettes more closely.

Final Thoughts: Why Nic Salts Changed Vaping Forever

Nic salts have reinvented the vaping experience by making strong nicotine smooth, satisfying, and easy to enjoy. Whether you prefer fruity blends, icy hits, or deep shisha-style flavours, there's now a nic salt for every taste and every budget. And with refillable pod kits paired with high-quality nic salt e-liquids, you can enjoy disposable-style flavour at a fraction of the long-term cost.

Explore our full selection in the Nic Salt E-Liquids collection and find your new all-day vape today.

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The Science Behind Nic Salts: Why They Hit So Smooth