Electric cigarettes have exploded onto the national scene over the past few years, as smokers have found it more and more difficult to find a place to enjoy a traditional smoke. Known by several different names like electric cigarettes, e-cigs, and smokeless cigarettes, electronic cigarettes consist of a rechargeable battery, an atomizer, a cartridge containing the flavor/nicotine mixture, and a case. The case is shaped to look like a traditional cigarette, and the atomizer is activated by sucking on the tip mimicking, the draw, feel, and even the taste of traditional tobacco.

Electric cigarettes are gaining popularity among a variety of people. Folks who have enjoyed traditional smokes for years are turning to e-cigs to enjoy the social aspects of smoking, without risking their health. Some people even use electronic smokes to help break their smoking habit.

Electric cigarettes are available through many different retailers. Local convenience stores sell cheap e-cigs, while tobacco shops and online stores stock everything from starter kits to refill cartridges from multiple brand names.

The long-term health effects of tobacco use are well established. Nearly everyone knows and understands the risks of smoking, but the social pressure to keep smoking is strong. Smoking is a social activity, and the smoker who quits often finds themselves without a social group. E cigarettes provide options for those who want to quit smoking without giving up their friends. Some companies offer refill cartridges of varying strengths, including nicotine free refills, enabling users can gradually reduce their nicotine intake.

Electric cigarettes can be enjoyed almost anywhere. Unlike tobacco cigarettes, e-cigs release no smoke, and can be enjoyed even places where smoking is prohibited. Because they do not burn, users can enjoy electric cigarettes anytime, even when there is not enough time for a full smoke break. When short on time, e-cig users can take out an electric cigarette, enjoy a few quick puffs, and then put the device back in their pocket.

Two of the biggest complaints nonsmokers have about traditional cigarettes are the smoke, and the waste. E-cigarettes eliminate both of those problems. E-cigs eliminate the problem of unthinking smokers tossing used cigarette butts on the ground. E-cigs are reusable. After enjoying a few puffs from a smokeless cigarette, a user just clips the device back into their pocket. There is no smoke, no bad breath, and no unsightly cigarette butt tossed on the ground.

Electric cigarettes are a healthy, socially acceptable alternative to smoking for active smokers as well as people who want to give up the habit.