Over the past few years, a phenomenon has taken hold in the world of smoking and vaping: puffs – disposable electronic devices – are gaining ground against conventional cigarettes. Simple, accessible and aggressively marketed, puffs are a hit, but at what price? And above all, what are the consequences for health and the future of smoking cessation?
1. What is a “puff” and why does it appeal?
A puff (also known as a disposable electronic cigarette) is a pre-filled, ready-to-use device with no settings, refills or maintenance. The user uses it until it runs out, then throws it away. This ease of use appeals to many beginner smokers and vapoteurs.
Compared to the classic cigarette, the puff combines a number of advantages:
- Immediate simplicity: no handling, no tank to fill, no adjustments
- Portable and discreet: mini format, streamlined design
- Attractive marketing: a wide choice of flavors, bright colors, attractive positioning
- Accessibility: sometimes sold at prices comparable to a pack of cigarettes, making it “less intimidating” for the uninitiated user.
This rise in popularity has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, puffs have long been visible in vapotage shop windows, particularly among young people.
2. The legal context and the social response
Faced with this explosion in usage, the French authorities decided to take action. In February 2025, law no. 2025-175 banned the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes (puffs) in France, due to health and environmental risks.
This measure aims to protect young people, reduce exposure to attractive aromas and combat the massive waste of electronic devices. At the same time, penalties for retailers who fail to comply with the ban can reach 100,000 euros, or even 200,000 euros in the event of a repeat offence.
This regulatory milestone underlines the fact that the initial perceived advantages of puffs – accessibility and simplified use – are accompanied by dangers that are often underestimated.
3. Puff vs cigarette: strengths, weaknesses, risks
Puff forces
- Easy start-up – no technical training required
- Discretion – small format, not as strong an odour as a conventional cigarette
- Sensory appeal – sweet flavours, multiple aromas
- Fashion effect – “young and modern” image
Weaknesses & risks
- Increased dependence – some puffs contain very high levels of nicotine (up to 5%)
- Disposable use & waste – accumulation of lithium batteries, plastics, electronic components
- Effects on heart rate and blood pressure – permanent stimulation of the nervous system
- Risk of slippage to conventional cigarettes – some young puff users may be introduced to nicotine via puffs, then migrate to tobacco.
- Uncertain regulation – before 2025, many products did not comply with European standards, creating grey areas in terms of composition and safety.
In comparison, a conventional cigarette remains a major source of health risks (cancer, lung disease, cardiovascular disease). Nevertheless, its mechanism is well documented, regulated and taxed, and its medium- and long-term effects widely known.
4. The transition: temptation or passage to weaning?
For some smokers, puffs have been presented as a “gentler” alternative to cigarettes. However, this transition is a delicate one: if the aim is really to
With the ban on disposable puffs, many users are now looking for alternatives. Some are turning to refillable electronic cigarettes, pods, or other more durable vaping devices.
But to really stop, you need comprehensive support – physical, psychological and behavioral.
5. Quitting puff, cigarettes and e-cigarettes: a new method
This is where MyLaserTabac proposes a different approach: laserear reflexology. This gentle method stimulates precise points in the ear to act on nerve circuits linked to addictions, stress and compulsions.
Here’s how it all fits together:
- Reduced nicotine cravings, whether from a puff, cigarette or e-cigarette
- Managing the stress and emotions that often accompany withdrawal
- Support for cross-addictions: sugar, alcohol, cannabis
- Painless, non-invasive approach, compatible with other stopping devices
- Long-term support to prevent relapse
Combining auricular laser technology with personalized follow-up, MyLaserTabac aims to offer a modern, comprehensive method that doesn’t limit itself to a substitute, but restores an overall balance.
