Vaping has become an increasingly popular alternative to smoking, and for many, it’s a step toward a smoke-free lifestyle. As many people perceive vaping to be less harmful than smoking.
However, if you're new to vaping, it can feel like a mystery especially if you are doing it for the first time and when it comes to learning how to inhale properly that is a whole new thing.
In this detailed guide, we'll break it down in a way that's easy to understand, safe to follow, and optimized for the best experience possible on “How to Inhale a Vape?”.
How to inhale a Vape Correctly?
Choosing the Right Device for Beginners
The first step to inhale a vape properly starts with choosing the right device for you. For beginners, it's generally recommended to start with a mouth-to-lung (MTL) device, which closely mimics the draw of a cigarette.
Mouth-to-Lung Devices
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Mimic traditional smoking
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Low vapor production
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Tight airflow
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Lower wattage
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Ideal for high-nicotine e-liquids (like nic salts)
Direct-to-Lung Devices
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For more experienced users
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Massive vapor clouds
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Open airflow
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High wattage
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Best for low-nicotine, high-VG e-liquids
How to Inhale a Vape: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Step 1: Prime Your Coil
Before you even take your first puff, make sure your coil is properly primed and ready. Add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton part of the coil, install it into your tank or pod, fill the tank with e-liquid, and wait 5-10 minutes.
This ensures you don’t burn the coil on your first hit as this is a mistake every beginner makes and then later regrets.
Step 2: Adjust Your Airflow and Wattage
Set your airflow to a tighter setting for a mouth-to-lung draw. Make sure the wattage is set to the manufacturer’s recommended range which is usually listed on the coil or packaging.
A high wattage can result in harsh hits and feel stingy or too hard on the throat, especially for beginners. So one should always start with low wattage.
Starting with a low wattage helps you adapt to the vape easily and makes it easier to use and then later on when you get better and used to it then you can move to a higher voltage if you want.
Step 3: Mouth-to-Lung Inhale Technique
This method is perfect for beginners who want to know “How to Inhale a Vape?” and a smooth transition from smoking:
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Draw the vapor into your mouth first—don’t inhale into your lungs just yet.
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Let it sit in your mouth for a second or two so you can feel the flavor a bit.
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Then, inhale it into your lungs slowly just like a cigarette.
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Exhale through your nose or mouth.
This method mimics how most people smoke traditional cigarettes, making it a natural first step into vaping.
Step 4: Direct-to-Lung Inhale (Advanced)
Once you're more comfortable and used to vaping, then you can switch and you may try a direct-to-lung inhale, especially if using a sub-ohm device:
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Inhale deeply and directly into your lungs like taking a big breath.
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Exhale smoothly after holding for a second.
This method is not recommended for high-nicotine e-liquids as you are taking in too much of smoke and due to the risk of coughing or a nicotine buzz that can be overwhelming.
Moreover inhaling too much nicotine can cause many health issues as well even tho its less harmful than smoking but still higher nicotine consumption can make you an addict.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Inhaling Too Hard
Pulling too aggressively on a vape can flood the coil and result in spit-back where hot e-liquid spits into your mouth. Always inhale gently and steadily so that you can feel the taste without having to
Using the Wrong Type of Vape Juice
High VG juices are thicker and better suited for direct-to-lung devices. If you use them in a mouth-to-lung device, they may clog the coil. Stick with 50/50 PG/VG ratios or nicotine salts when starting out.
Choosing the right and best vape juice is very essential if you want to vape correctly as you dont want to end up clogging or getting a heavy feel.
Chain Vaping
Taking puff after puff without a break will also overheat your coils, eventually leading to a burnt hit. It is essential to give yourself time between inhales. The average time is around 15 to 30 seconds.
You don’t want to inhale very speedily as it will also make you dizzy as well as you will end up getting a nicotine buzz along with a heated up coil. So better to give your vape coil some time to cool.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Vaping can also cause mild dehydration, especially if you're new to vaping. Be sure to always stay hydrated to avoid dry mouth and other symptoms.
The Role of Nicotine Strength in Your Inhaling Technique
The problem of “How to Inhale a Vape? Highly depends on nicotine strength as well. ”Nicotine strength directly affects your inhale experience:
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High Nicotine (18mg - 50mg): Ideal for mouth-to-lung inhaling; quick nicotine satisfaction but can be harsh if inhaled directly to the lungs.
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Medium Nicotine (6mg - 12mg): Offers a balance of throat hit and vapor; suitable for transitioning smokers.
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Low Nicotine (3mg - 6mg): Designed for sub-ohm vaping and direct-to-lung inhales; smoother on the throat.
If you’re experiencing a harsh throat hit or coughing, it’s likely your nicotine level is too high for your method of inhalation.
Throat Hit vs. Smoothness: Finding Your Balance
Throat hit refers to the feeling you get at the back of your throat when you inhale vapor. Some users love a strong throat hit as it replicates the sensation of smoking. Others prefer a smooth and mellow vape. The sensation is influenced by:
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Nicotine strength
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PG/VG ratio (More PG = stronger throat hit, more VG = smoother)
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Inhalation technique
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Device wattage
Adjust your setup until you find what feels best for you.
Coughing When Vaping? Here’s Why and How to Fix It
Many first-time vapers cough when they try their first hit. This is normal. It often comes down to:
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Inhaling too deeply or too fast
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Using high nicotine strength
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Drawing directly into the lungs before you’re ready
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Using a direct-to-lung device as a beginner
Solution: Slow down. Switch to a low-wattage, MTL device. Try nicotine salts with a smooth flavor profile and moderate strength (like 20mg). Take gentle, shallow puffs until your body adjusts.
Perfecting the Draw: How Long Should You Inhale?
The ideal inhale duration for a beginner is 2 to 4 seconds for MTL devices. This allows enough vapor to accumulate in your mouth before inhaling into your lungs. For direct lung inhales, try 3 to 6 seconds—but only if you’re using a device designed for that.
Never rush your draws. Smooth, controlled inhales lead to the most enjoyable and satisfying vape sessions.
Breathing Techniques to Enhance Vaping Experience
If you're struggling with inhalation, try pairing it with calm, controlled breathing:
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Inhale vapor slowly through the mouth
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Pause for one second
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Exhale through the nose slowly
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Breathe in clean air between puffs
This helps prevent coughing, improves flavor perception, and creates a more relaxing experience.
What to Do If You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded
This is often a sign of nicotine overload. If it happens:
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Stop vaping immediately
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Sit down
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Sip water
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Breathe deeply
Next time, opt for lower nicotine strength and space out your puffs.
Maintaining Your Device for a Better Inhale
Even perfect technique can’t fix a dirty or poorly maintained device. To keep your hits smooth and flavorful:
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Clean your tank weekly with warm water
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Replace coils every 1-2 weeks or when flavor fades
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Check airflow vents for obstructions
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Charge your battery fully for consistent power delivery
A clean vape equals a clean inhale.
Vaping Etiquette: Inhale Quietly, Exhale Respectfully
As you gain confidence, remember that vaping still affects others around you. Practice stealth vaping in public places where clouds aren’t welcome. Always be aware of local laws and show courtesy by exhaling away from people.
Best Way on How to Inhale a Vape Without Coughing
Learning how to vape without coughing can feel tricky, especially if you’re just starting out. Whether you’re switching from cigarettes or diving into vaping for the first time, coughing can totally ruin the experience. But the good news?
It’s avoidable. We've put together the ultimate guide packed with practical, easy-to-follow advice to help you inhale a vape smoothly and confidently—without coughing your lungs out.
Why You’re Coughing When You Vape
Before we dive into solutions, let’s talk about what’s causing the coughing. It’s not always the same for everyone, but here are the most common culprits:
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Too much nicotine – Your throat isn’t used to it yet
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Wrong inhaling technique – You're puffing too hard or inhaling like you're hitting a cigarette
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High PG e-liquid – PG (propylene glycol) hits harder than VG and can cause irritation
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New to vaping – Your lungs might just be adjusting to something new
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Dirty or burnt coil – A burnt taste can be super harsh on your throat
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Too high wattage – Vapor might be too hot for you to handle
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Dry hits – Taking a puff when the coil isn’t saturated leads to coughing every time
Choose the Right Device for Beginners
Some vapes are just easier on your throat than others. Here's what works best if you're coughing a lot:
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Mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices – Closest feel to smoking a cigarette
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Lower wattage pens or pods – Less vapor, more control
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Auto-draw vapes – Just puff, no buttons or weird settings
Avoid these (at least for now):
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Big sub-ohm tanks with massive clouds
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Box mods that crank out 100+ watts
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Huge cloud-chasing setups with zero resistance
Best Inhalation Techniques to Avoid Coughing
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Inhale – The Beginner’s Best Friend
The go-to technique for newbies or ex-smokers. Here’s how you do it:
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Draw the vapor into your mouth first
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Pause for a second
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Breathe it into your lungs gently
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Exhale slowly
This feels more controlled and gives your throat time to handle the hit.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Inhale – For Advanced Users
If you're using a sub-ohm vape and lower nicotine:
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Inhale straight into your lungs, like a deep breath
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Only works well with smooth, high-VG, low-nicotine e-liquids
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Requires stronger lungs and a bit more experience
DTL is not recommended if you’re new to vaping and want to avoid coughing.
Avoid These Common Mistakes That Make You Cough
Let’s be real, most coughing comes from rookie mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
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Inhaling too hard – Go easy; gentle puffs are better
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Not priming your coil – Always wait 5–10 mins after filling
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Chain vaping – Take breaks between puffs
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Wrong nicotine strength – Start lower (3–6mg for regular juice, 20–30mg max for salts)
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Using high-PG juices – Go for 70/30 VG/PG if your throat is sensitive
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Puffing like a cigarette – Vaping is a slow process, not a race
E-Liquid Tips to Help You Vape Without Coughing
The kind of vape juice you use can make or break your experience. If you wanna know “How to Inhale a Vape without coughing?” Here's how to get it right :
Pick the Right Nicotine Strength
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Too high = instant cough
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Start with 3mg or 6mg freebase
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Or 20–30mg nicotine salts if you're using a pod system
Go High on VG
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VG = Vegetable Glycerin = smooth hits
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Aim for 70/30 VG/PG ratio
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Less throat hit, more comfort
Avoid Cheap Juice
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Bad flavors and low-quality ingredients hit harder
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Always buy from trusted brands
Hydration is Key
Believe it or not, vaping can dry your throat and dehydrate you. If your throat is dry, you’re more likely to cough. Here’s what to do:
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Drink lots of water throughout the day
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Keep a water bottle handy while vaping
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Suck on a lozenge or mint to soothe your throat
Adjust Your Vape Settings
If your vape has adjustable settings, don’t ignore them. They can save your throat:
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Lower the wattage – Start low (10–15W) and work up slowly
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Close the airflow a bit – More resistance = more control
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Try a cooler vape – Hot vapor tends to make you cough
Tweak until it feels smooth. There’s no one-size-fits-all.
Avoid Vaping on an Empty Stomach
Yes, this matters. Vaping when you haven’t eaten can:
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Make your throat more sensitive
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Give you a stronger nicotine hit
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Lead to coughing or nausea
Grab a snack before vaping, especially if you're new to it.
Practice Makes Perfect
It takes time to adjust. Your throat isn’t used to vapor—yet. So don’t get discouraged if you cough a bit at the start.
Here’s how to ease into it:
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Practice slow inhales once or twice a day
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Take breaks often
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Switch between mouth-only puffs and full inhales
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Try different flavors and strengths until it feels right
You’ll build tolerance with each session. Within days or weeks, your cough should disappear completely.
Signs You Might Be Vaping Wrong
Still coughing? It might not be your fault—but your setup. Look for these signs:
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Coil is burnt – Tastes awful and makes you cough
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Juice leaks into your mouth – Bad airflow or old coil
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Vape gurgles – You’re drawing too hard or it’s overfilled
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No flavor – Coil needs changing or wattage too low
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Throat feels raw – Too much PG or nicotine
Fix the issue first before trying to push through.
Best Vape Devices for a Cough-Free Experience
Looking to upgrade or switch to something easier? Try:
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Uwell Caliburn series – Super smooth, great for beginners
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Vaporesso XROS – Adjustable airflow, sleek design
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Voopoo Argus P1 – MTL friendly with solid battery
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Innokin Endura – Classic MTL kit with easy coils
These are all user-friendly, don’t overwhelm with options, and produce cool vapor that's less likely to trigger coughing fits.
Flavor Can Make a Huge Difference
Sometimes it’s not the device or the nicotine—it’s the flavor. Some flavors are just harsher on the throat.
Try These If You’re Coughing:
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Creamy or dessert flavors (smooth, soft on the throat)
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Fruity menthols (cooling sensation eases irritation)
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Basic tobacco blends (for ex-smokers transitioning)
Avoid These For Now:
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Sharp citrus or sour candy flavors
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Super sweet, artificial blends
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High-concentrate mint or ice that freezes your lungs
The Vaper’s Breathing Technique (Pro Tip)
Want to really stop coughing and feel smooth every time?
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Inhale gently into your mouth
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Hold it there 1–2 seconds
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Inhale into lungs slowly
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Exhale fully through nose
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Wait 30 seconds before your next puff
This pacing lets your throat recover and makes vaping more enjoyable.
What If You Still Cough After Trying Everything?
If none of these tips work, it might not be you—it might be:
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An allergy to PG – Try max VG juices
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Sensitivity to nicotine – Go for 0mg juices
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Health condition – Asthma or respiratory issues can make vaping tough
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Old habits – You’re still inhaling like a cigarette
Try switching devices or juices again—or take a break and let your body reset.
Wrap-Up: Becoming Comfortable with Vaping Inhalation
You don’t have to suffer through every puff. When you get the right vape, juice, and technique, it becomes second nature—and even enjoyable.
Remember:
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Go slow
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Pick smooth juices
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Use beginner-friendly gear
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Sip, don’t suck
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Practice patience
Coughing is temporary. But the satisfaction of a smooth vape hit? That lasts. That was all on “How to Inhale a Vape?” the correct and easy to go method for you. Happy Vaping!
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