A dab pen is a portable device designed to vaporize cannabis concentrates, such as wax or shatter, by heating them into an inhalable aerosol. Although this method bypasses the harshness associated with smoke combustion, many users still experience a sharp, uncomfortable sensation often described as a “throat burn.” This burning is a common complaint caused by a complex reaction involving the device’s mechanics, the chemistry of the concentrate, and the user’s inhalation technique. Understanding these causes is the first step toward achieving a smoother experience.
The Impact of High Operating Temperatures
The most immediate cause of a burnt feeling is the physical temperature of the vapor contacting the delicate tissues of the throat. Dab pens use an atomizer or coil, often made of ceramic or quartz, which heats the concentrate rapidly. The resulting vapor is highly concentrated and lacks the cooling effect that occurs when smoke is drawn through a long pathway.
When a pen is set to a high wattage or voltage, or lacks precise temperature control, the heating element can exceed the optimal vaporization point of 315°F to 400°F (157°C to 204°C). This excessive heat creates vapor that is physically hot and dry. Inhaling this hot aerosol causes immediate thermal irritation, similar to inhaling steam, which triggers a reflex cough and the sensation of burning on the throat’s lining.
Some conduction-style pens can reach temperatures as high as 500°F to 650°F (260°C to 343°C) in seconds, which causes discomfort and potential degradation. Even if the concentrate is pure, a physically hot vapor will still produce harshness. The coil material also affects this sensation; while ceramic can provide a more consistent heat, certain coil types heat up too fast, leading to an irritating aerosol.
Impurities and Chemical Degradation
Beyond simple heat, the chemical composition of the vapor significantly contributes to throat irritation, especially when concentrates are overheated. When cannabinoids and terpenes are heated above their optimal range, thermal decomposition, or pyrolysis, can occur. This breakdown generates toxic byproducts, including various aldehydes like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, which are known respiratory irritants.
Formaldehyde is a corrosive compound that can form when thinning agents like polyethylene glycol (PEG 400) or propylene glycol (PG) are heated to high temperatures, such as 446°F (230°C). While high-quality concentrates often avoid these additives, residual solvents or other manufacturing impurities can also introduce harsh chemicals that irritate the throat lining.
Terpenes, the aromatic compounds in cannabis, are desirable for flavor but can also degrade into irritating substances like methacrolein and isoprene when overheated. Even without additives, certain terpenes, such as limonene and myrcene, can be inherently harsh on the throat at high concentrations. This chemical harshness is distinct from thermal burn and creates a sharp, acrid sensation that lingers.
Inhalation Technique and Physiological Factors
The way a user inhales the vapor plays a large role in whether the experience is smooth or harsh. Taking a long, deep, or rapid pull increases the volume and concentration of hot vapor delivered to the throat quickly. This high concentration of irritants, whether thermal or chemical, overwhelms the throat’s natural defenses and results in a more intense burning sensation.
A “dry hit” is an extremely harsh experience that occurs when the coil is activated without sufficient concentrate material to vaporize. This causes the heating element to scorch the residual oil or the wick material itself, producing a burnt flavor and irritating thermal decomposition products. A dry hit is an immediate and painful form of throat burn.
The act of vaping itself can contribute to physiological irritation by drying out the mucous membranes in the throat. The aerosol produced by a dab pen is a dry vapor, which can exacerbate pre-existing dehydration. This dryness makes the throat more susceptible to irritation from heat and chemical compounds, increasing the overall feeling of harshness.
Methods to Achieve Smoother Vapor
To minimize throat burn, users can control the device’s temperature by selecting the lowest voltage or wattage setting available. Lower temperatures, ideally between 315°F and 350°F (157°C to 177°C), preserve the concentrate’s flavor and reduce the formation of irritating chemical byproducts. If the pen offers temperature control, setting it on the lower end of the spectrum is the most effective solution.
Adjusting the inhalation style is necessary for a smoother experience. Users should take slow, short, and steady draws, rather than quick, hard pulls, to prevent the coil from overheating and allow the vapor to cool slightly. Staying hydrated by drinking water before and during use can counteract the drying effect of the vapor on the throat’s mucous membranes.
Ensuring concentrate quality is a preventative measure against chemical irritation. Users should seek out third-party lab-tested concentrates that are free of thinning agents, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). Regular maintenance, including cleaning the atomizer and replacing coils as they wear out, prevents residue buildup that can lead to burnt tastes and harsh hits.