Back in the day, smoking was so ingrained in society that you could even light up a cigarette in a hospital up until 1993. Crazy, right? 

Fast forward to today, and we're still wrestling with the hold cigarettes have on us (cue the nicotine addiction talk). However, it seems like Gen Z is flipping the script on smoking habits. Step outside or scroll through social media, and you'll notice a surge in vaping. 

It's everywhere, from discussions about aging to debates over its effects on acne. But amidst all this buzz, one burning question remains: Are vapor cigs really safe?

Smoking vs. Vaping: The Millennial and Gen Z Divide

Let's dive into the vaping phenomenon, a trend that's been sweeping through our generation like wildfire. Picture this: back in 2019, Gen Z saw an 18% surge in vaping - a staggering rise that's got everyone talking. Remember those days when stepping outside for a quick cigarette fix was the norm? Well, vaping changed the game, offering a convenient puff without the hassle of relocating.

Now, here's where things get interesting. Despite the vaping craze, guess what? Cigarette sales actually spiked for the first time in two decades during the pandemic. With less spending on travel and more time spent at home, folks found themselves puffing away without restraint. No more sneaky smoke breaks at the office or school; it was all fair game within the comfort of home sweet home. And let's not forget the stress factor. Millennials were hit hard during the pandemic, feeling the weight of isolation and anxiety. Turns out, nicotine became the go-to coping mechanism for many.

But why the sudden shift towards vaping, you ask? Well, it's not just about ditching tobacco; it's a whole lifestyle upgrade. Vapes not only taste better but also come with a price tag that won't break the bank. Compared to a pack of smokes, they're practically a steal. And when you've got A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Moss, and Lady Gaga flaunting their vape pens, well, it's hard not to jump on the bandwagon.

Now, let's talk numbers. Recent surveys reveal a surge in Gen Z vaping, while millennials seem to be split down the middle. And guess what's driving this vape frenzy? Fruity flavors and slick marketing targeted right at the younger crowd. High schoolers, in particular, are lured in by the allure of those tantalizing flavors.

But here's the real kicker: while both generations are embracing vaping, it seems millennials might have a slight edge in the puffing game. Many are turning to vaping as a trendy alternative, even if they've never touched a traditional cigarette. Meanwhile, Gen Z is leading the charge when it comes to vaping over smoking.

So, who's puffing more? Well, it's a bit of a mixed bag. Vaping rates vary depending on where you are, your background, and a bunch of other factors. But one thing's for sure: vaping has become the cool new thing, especially among us young folks. Whether you're Team Vape or Team Smoke, one thing's undeniable: the cloud of controversy around vaping isn't dissipating anytime soon.

Vapor Cigs: Safe or Risky Business?

It's crucial to acknowledge that the health impacts of vaping are still shrouded in uncertainty, and numerous health professionals advise against its usage, particularly because most e-cigarettes contain nicotine. Despite these warnings, vaping continues to be a prevalent practice among youth. Thus, it's imperative that we persist in educating them about the associated risks and offer support to those who wish to quit.

Final Thoughts: Embracing a Nicotine-Free Lifestyle

As the harmful effects of nicotine become increasingly apparent, it's clear that breaking free from its grasp is a positive step forward. At ripple+, we're dedicated to supporting your journey to quit smoking by offering effective solutions.

From nicotine replacement therapies to nicotine-free e-cigarettes and herbal vaporizers, there's a range of alternatives tailored to suit various preferences and lifestyles. If you're ready to bid farewell to cigarettes, consider exploring these options to pave the way for a smoke-free future.