Jessica Tyson
29/05/2025 • 5 min read
For adult smokers considering alternatives to traditional cigarette smoking, IQOS has become a popular option. Promising a smoke-free experience with fewer harmful chemicals, this heat-not-burn device offers a modern approach to tobacco consumption. But is IQOS really better than cigarettes? Let’s explore the key differences, benefits, and considerations to help you make an informed choice.
Shop IQOS IlumaIQOS is a heat-not-burn device designed for adult smokers. Instead of burning tobacco, this tobacco heating system heats specially designed TEREA sticks just enough to release nicotine and flavour in a vapour. This innovative process avoids combustion, which is the main source of harmful chemicals in traditional smoking.
By heating tobacco rather than burning it, IQOS offers a cleaner experience with no smoke, tar, or ash, making it a less intrusive option for both users and those around them.
The most significant distinction between IQOS and a conventional cigarette is the absence of combustion. Traditional cigarettes burn tobacco at high temperatures, producing smoke filled with harmful chemicals like tar and carbon monoxide, and these conventional cigarettes are also known for their high levels of toxins. IQOS, on the other hand, heats tobacco to a much lower temperature, resulting in vapour with 95% fewer harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes.
This lack of smoke means IQOS produces less odour and no ash, offering a more discreet and convenient alternative. However, it’s important to note that although IQOS reduces exposure to certain toxins, it may not be entirely risk-free.
Understanding the chemical composition of heated tobacco products like IQOS is crucial for evaluating their safety and health impacts. These products contain a complex mixture of chemicals, including nicotine, tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
IQOS, for instance, heats tobacco to release nicotine and other substances without burning it. This process results in lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to traditional cigarettes. However, it’s important to note that while the levels of TSNAs in IQOS are reduced, they are not entirely absent.
The chemical composition of heated tobacco can vary depending on the product and manufacturer, affecting its toxicity and health impacts. Therefore, although heated tobacco products like IQOS definitely offer a cleaner alternative to traditional cigarettes, they are not without risks.
IQOS offers several benefits for smokers seeking a modern alternative to cigarettes through heat-not-burn products:
HEETS sticks are specifically designed for IQOS devices and differ significantly from traditional cigarettes. They are made from real tobacco but are heated rather than burned, providing a smoother and more consistent flavour profile as they heat tobacco instead of burning it. The absence of ash and smoke makes HEETS a cleaner option, though the experience may take some adjustment for smokers transitioning from cigarettes.
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Although IQOS reduces exposure to many harmful chemicals compared to smoking cigarettes, users may occasionally experience minor side effects such as throat irritation, headaches, or nausea, particularly when first transitioning.
Heated tobacco products, such as IQOS, are often marketed as harm reduction tools that can help people quit smoking.
Some studies suggest that heated tobacco products may help reduce smoking rates by providing a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes. These products can mimic the sensory experience of smoking, which may make the transition easier for some smokers. However, other studies have found that the effectiveness of heated tobacco products can vary widely among individuals.
It’s also important to consider that the long-term health impacts of using heated tobacco products are still unknown. Although they may reduce exposure to certain harmful chemicals, the potential risks associated with their use over time remain unclear.
For those looking to quit smoking, heated tobacco products may be more effective when used in combination with other cessation strategies, such as behavioural support and nicotine replacement therapy. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide additional guidance and support in developing a comprehensive quit-smoking plan.
Unlike e-cigarettes, which vaporise a liquid containing nicotine, IQOS heats real tobacco for a more traditional experience. Both options aim to reduce harm compared to smoking, but their appeal often depends on personal preference and trends in the e cigarette market. E-cigarettes may be more effective for those looking to quit smoking entirely, while IQOS is designed for smokers seeking a familiar yet less harmful alternative.
The regulation of heated tobacco products, such as IQOS, is a complex and evolving process that varies by country and region. Different governments and health organisations have established guidelines and regulations to manage the use and marketing of these products.
In the European Union, heated tobacco products fall under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This directive sets out requirements for the manufacture, presentation, and sale of tobacco and related products, including heated tobacco. The TPD aims to protect public health by regulating the contents, emissions, and labelling of these products.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also issued guidelines for the regulation of heated tobacco products. These guidelines recommend rigorous testing and clear labeling to inform consumers about the potential risks. The WHO emphasizes the need for ongoing research and monitoring to understand the long-term health effects of these products.
As the market for heated tobacco products continues to grow, regulations are likely to evolve. New developments and updates in regulatory frameworks will play a crucial role in shaping the future of these products and their impact on public health.
IQOS is a viable alternative for smokers who want to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals without giving up tobacco. Its smoke-free design, reduced emissions, and cleaner experience make it a step forward from traditional cigarettes. That said, it’s important to weigh these benefits against the fact that IQOS is not risk-free and is intended only for adult smokers.
Switching from cigarettes to IQOS can offer several advantages, from reduced harmful chemicals to a cleaner and more modern way to enjoy tobacco. However, understanding your preferences and the available evidence, including the role of tobacco companies in promoting these products, is key to making the right choice for you.
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