A fake cigarette is better known as en electric cigarette, electronic cigarette, e-cig, smokeless cigarette or vapor cigarette. This wonderful little device is a battery operated unit that resembles a real cigarette and was first introduced into the European market in 2006 and reached the U.S. market shortly after. The concept of finding an alternative to real cigarettes came about when a pharmacist named Hon Lik from China had lost his father due to lung cancer. Hon Lik, who was also a smoker invented the electric cigarette in 2003.

How Does It Work?

The electric cigarette works by screwing the battery (the end of cigarette) into the atomizer (mouth piece) There is a cartridge of nicotine liquid inside of the mouth piece that drips onto the atomizer (heating element). The atomizer is than activated when an individual inhales or puffs on the electronic device, warming the solution and in return emitting a vapor which resembles smoke. There is no burning of tobacco leaves, therefor no carbon monoxide, smoke or tar. How cool is that?

Although these fake cigarettes can't be marketed as smoking cessation devices or nicotine replacements, I can tell you from personal experience I've had great success. You get the act and feel of smoking, but instead inhaling smoke that has over 4000 chemicals you inhale and exhale a vapor that consists of a nicotine level solution of your choice. The idea is to eventually lower your nic levels down to zero so you are no longer dependant on this chemical. The best part about vaping is that there is no lingering odor and you can vape indoors or most places where smoking is prohibited.

Are They Dangerous?

There have been several studies done on the electric cigarette in the past few years with positive results. E-cigs are not marketed as "safe" but some physicians believe it is a "safer alternative" than continuing to smoke the traditional tobacco cigarette. Glancing through electronic cigarette forums, you will find many testimonials of users who have experienced health benefits when users traded in thier tobacco cigarette for a fake cigarette.

What Does It Cost?

An average pack of tobacco cigarettes costs around $5 today, e-cigarettes are much cheaper. If you buy a bottle of liquid to refill your cartridges you can save even more. You will however have to occasionally buy new batteries, atomizers, or cartomizers.

I started using the electric cigarette in 2009 and I'm very thankful for this incredible invention. I have talked to hundreds of others like myself who believe making the switch to these "fake cigarettes" has truly changed their lives. Unfortunately there are e-cigarette companies out there looking to scam you by offering you a "free" electric cigarette. Trust me when I say, it is NOT free and you will be set up on a billing cycle and you WILL be charged. When electric cigarettes first came out, a starter kit cost around $150. Today you can find much better deals, getting a starter kit for around $30-$85. I would definitely reccommend giving one of these awesome gadgets a try!