Vaping is the act of inhaling an aerosol created by heating e-liquid (or vape juice) in an electronic device. The question of whether this process can burn the tongue involves two distinct mechanisms. While a thermal burn from superheated vapor is possible, the sensation of burning or irritation most often stems from chemical interactions with the e-liquid components.
Understanding Thermal Injuries
An authentic thermal injury occurs when the vapor temperature is excessively high, directly scorching the sensitive tissues of the mouth and tongue. This extreme heat is usually the result of a mechanical failure or improper device settings. For instance, a high-wattage setting paired with a low-resistance coil can produce vapor that exceeds safe temperatures.
The most common cause of a thermal burn is a “dry hit.” This happens when the coil’s wick material, typically cotton, runs out of e-liquid and is heated while dry. The coil superheats the dry cotton, creating an intensely hot burst of vapor that irritates oral tissue. Chain vaping, or taking many puffs in quick succession, can also lead to thermal issues. This practice does not allow the wick enough time to re-saturate with e-liquid between draws, resulting in the rapid heating of a partially dry wick.
Chemical Irritation and Sensitivity
The perception of a burn is far more frequently a result of chemical irritation from e-liquid ingredients rather than thermal damage. The primary base components—Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG)—along with additives like nicotine and flavorings, contribute to this sensation. PG, which carries flavor and creates a throat sensation, is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture. This property can rapidly dehydrate the mucous membranes, leading to a dry or burning feeling, especially for those sensitive to PG.
Nicotine concentration is a significant factor in chemical irritation. Higher levels of nicotine produce a more intense “throat hit,” often described as a burning or scratching sensation. Although nicotine salts are formulated to be smoother than traditional freebase nicotine, strengths exceeding 20 mg/mL can still cause pronounced irritation. Specific flavorings also play a role, as compounds used to simulate cinnamon or menthol are known irritants to oral tissue.
How to Prevent and Treat the Sensation
Prevention of thermal injury involves maintaining the device and adjusting power output. Users should operate the device within the wattage range recommended by the coil manufacturer to prevent overheating the wick material. Ensuring the tank is consistently full of e-liquid and waiting between puffs (avoiding chain vaping) allows the wick sufficient time to fully saturate.
Preventing Chemical Irritation
To address chemical irritation, focus on e-liquid composition and user habits. Reducing the nicotine strength can immediately lessen the harshness of the vapor and the associated burning sensation. Switching to an e-liquid with a higher ratio of Vegetable Glycerin (VG) to Propylene Glycol (PG) can help, as VG is smoother and less drying than PG.
Treating Soreness
Hydration is an effective treatment, as both PG and VG contribute to dry mouth; consistently drinking water helps counteract this effect. If the burning sensation persists, avoid known irritant flavors and temporarily switch to unflavored e-liquid to allow oral tissues to recover. For immediate relief from minor soreness, rinsing the mouth with cool water can soothe the irritated area.