Propylene Glycol (PG) for DIY E-Liquids in Ireland

Propylene Glycol (PG) is one of the two main base ingredients used in e-liquids, alongside Vegetable Glycerine (VG). It is a thin, clear and almost tasteless liquid that is excellent at carrying flavour and providing a noticeable throat hit – especially important for ex-smokers looking for a cigarette-like sensation.

What Is Propylene Glycol (PG)?

PG is a food-grade ingredient widely used in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. In vaping, its role is simple but crucial: it dissolves flavour concentrates evenly and helps deliver a sharper, cleaner taste with every puff. Because it is thinner than VG, it wicks quickly through cotton and works very well in pod systems and classic MTL devices.

Why Use PG in Your E-Liquid Mix?

• Stronger Flavour: PG carries flavour concentrates more efficiently, so even low percentages taste clear and defined.
• Cigarette-Like Throat Hit: Ideal for ex-smokers who want a similar sensation to traditional cigarettes.
• Good Wicking in Small Devices: The thin consistency is perfect for pod kits and MTL tanks with small juice ports.
• Easy DIY Mixing: PG blends quickly with VG, nicotine shots and flavour concentrates for consistent results.

Typical VG/PG Ratios for Irish Vapers

• 50VG / 50PG: The most universal mix – perfect for pod kits and MTL devices, balanced flavour and vapour.
• 70VG / 30PG: Smoother throat hit with more vapour – popular for sub-ohm and DL vaping.
• High PG (60%+ PG): Stronger throat hit, very clear flavour, low vapour – best for tight MTL setups.

How to Use PG in DIY E-Liquid

1. Choose Your Target Ratio: Decide if you want 50/50, 70/30 or another VG/PG blend based on your device and style.
2. Add Flavour Concentrates: Most recipes use 10–15% flavour in total; PG helps dissolve and carry these flavours.
3. Include Nicotine (Optional): Nicotine shots are usually PG-based, so they contribute to your final PG percentage.
4. Top Up with VG: Fill the rest of the bottle with VG until you reach the planned ratio and volume.
5. Shake & Steep: Shake thoroughly and, for complex flavours, let the mix rest a few days for best taste.

Who Is High-PG E-Liquid Best For?

• Ex-Smokers: Looking for a firm throat hit and clear tobacco or menthol flavours.
• Pod Kit Users: Using small coils and low-power devices that work best with thinner liquids.
• DIY Mixers on a Budget: PG-based mixes remain cost-effective even with extra taxes on finished e-liquids, and DIY still works out cheaper per millilitre than most ready-made juices.

Sensitivity and Alternatives

Some vapers may find high-PG mixes slightly drying or irritating on the throat. If you experience discomfort, try lowering the PG content (for example from 50/50 to 70VG/30PG) or choosing gentler flavours. Always test new ratios in a small trial bottle before mixing larger volumes.

Start Mixing with Propylene Glycol

Propylene Glycol is essential for anyone serious about DIY e-liquid mixing. Combined with VG, flavour concentrates and nicotine shots, it gives you full control over flavour strength, throat hit and vapour production – while keeping costs under control. Choose the right VG/PG balance for your device, experiment with small test batches and enjoy a personalised vaping experience tailored to the Irish market.