How Do Imp Jar Nic Salts Work?
A clear explanation of the chemistry behind nicotine salts, why they feel smoother than freebase nicotine and what that means in practice.
The short answer
Imp Jar Nic Salts work by pairing nicotine with an organic acid, which lowers the pH of the liquid compared to standard freebase nicotine. This makes the nicotine feel smoother to inhale and absorb into the bloodstream more quickly, closely mimicking the sensation and speed of a traditional cigarette.
Browse the Imp Jar Nic Salts range
10ml nic salts in disposable inspired flavours. UK made in Maidstone, Kent.
From tobacco leaf to bottle
Nicotine exists naturally in tobacco leaves in its salt form, bonded to organic acids found in the plant. Early e-liquid manufacturers used a process called freebasing, which strips away those acids to create a more potent, alkaline form of nicotine. Nic salts essentially reverse that step, recombining nicotine with an acid, typically benzoic acid, to bring the liquid closer to its naturally occurring chemistry.
Why this changes how it feels
The lower pH of a nic salt liquid means it does not irritate the throat in the same way that higher pH freebase nicotine does at equivalent strengths. This lets manufacturers like Imp Jar offer 20mg liquids that stay smooth and pleasant, rather than harsh, which would not be the case with a 20mg freebase equivalent.
What this means in practice
| Property | Effect |
|---|---|
| Lower pH | Smoother throat hit at higher strengths |
| Faster absorption | Quicker satisfaction, closer to a cigarette |
| Stable at 10mg and 20mg | Comfortable to vape without harshness |
This combination is why nic salts have become the standard choice for compact pod kits, where vapers want a strong, satisfying hit without needing a powerful device.
Common questions about how nic salts work
Does the acid change the flavour of the liquid?
No, the acid used to create the salt form is present in tiny quantities and does not noticeably affect the taste of the e-liquid.
Why do nic salts feel faster than freebase?
The lower pH allows nicotine to be absorbed more efficiently through the lungs, leading to a quicker rise in blood nicotine compared to an equivalent freebase strength.
Is the chemistry behind nic salts new?
The underlying chemistry is the same form nicotine takes naturally in tobacco, it is the application to vaping that became widespread from around 2016 onwards.
Part of the Imp Jar Nic Salts guides hub
This page is part of our complete Imp Jar Nic Salts guide series. Return to the Imp Jar Nic Salts Guides Hub for the full topic overview. Browse the related guides below.