THC Vape Pen Sales Surge Despite U.S. Restrictions

THC vape pen sales in the USA continue to climb despite growing health concerns and evolving legal restrictions. Since the early 2000s, when Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik invented the first e-cigarette as a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking, vaping has evolved into a global phenomenon with serious health implications. Studies have shown that e-cigarette users face a 56% higher risk of heart attacks and 30% increased stroke risk compared to non-users.

However, these health warnings haven’t slowed demand—particularly in urban centers, where U.S. vape retailers report consistent interest despite state-level crackdowns. The American Lung Association has linked chemicals in e-cigarettes to severe respiratory issues, including “popcorn lung,” while an outbreak of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury) resulted in at least 68 deaths and thousands of hospitalizations between 2019 and 2020. Younger demographics, in particular, gravitate toward disposable vape pens due to their convenience and flavor variety.

THC Vape Pen Sales Rise Despite Federal Crackdown

The American cannabis vape market is experiencing remarkable growth, generating $346.6 million in revenue during 2024. Analysts project this will rise to $812.9 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 15.3% from 2025 onward. Notably, portable vape devices dominate the market, accounting for over 70% of sales in 2024.

Despite federal and state restrictions, illicit sales have flourished. In several U.S. states, enforcement data shows a surge in unauthorized retailers offering vape products. This growth continues even as lawmakers push for bans on sales through gas stations and convenience stores.

The black market has responded aggressively to new laws. Following the January 1st federal import ban on disposable vapes, undercover investigations found that nearly 90% of stores in major U.S. cities still sold nicotine vapes. Government officials estimate the illegal vaping market has grown by 60% since prescription-only or age-restricted sales were implemented.

So-called “penjamins” – sleek, concealable vapes disguised as everyday items like lip balm tubes or wireless earbuds – have become especially popular among young Americans. Among recent cannabis users in the U.S., the percentage who reported ever vaping cannabis increased significantly, with some surveys showing a jump from 7% in 2019 to at least 25% by 2023.

As a result, enforcement efforts have intensified. In major U.S. states, public health departments have seized hundreds of thousands of illegal vape pens, valued at over $20 million on the street. Still, compliance remains difficult, with complaints and investigations doubling over the past two years in many jurisdictions.

This growth occurs amid broader data showing that cannabis remains the most widely used illicit drug in America, with more than 11% of adults reporting recent use in national health surveys. The persistence of the vape market highlights challenges facing current regulatory strategies.

Why Are Americans Still Buying THC Vape Pens?

Despite stricter laws, Americans continue purchasing THC vape pens for several key reasons. One of the top motivators is the perception of safety, with many users believing that vaping cannabis is less harmful than smoking it. As one college student shared, “My friends say it’s safer than smoking.” This misconception continues despite evidence suggesting that vaping THC oil may cause serious lung injury.

Social media has also played a huge role in boosting demand. TikTok alone hosts more than 18 billion posts under the hashtag #vape, and Instagram shows over 16 million posts tagged #VapeLife. These platforms are filled with videos and images showcasing “penjamins” – vaping devices designed to look like harmless everyday objects. Many users report purchasing these vapes after seeing them on TikTok.

Discretion is another factor. Penjamins allow users to vape in schools, workplaces, and even public transportation, with little risk of detection. Parents, teachers, and even airport security may have no idea someone is using a disguised vape device.

Affordability also drives popularity. With the rising cost of cigarettes—often exceeding $10 to $15 per pack in some states—many younger users view vaping as a cheaper and trendier alternative. For them, it’s not only accessible but also a form of rebellion or experimentation.

Finally, users often cite the intensity of the high as a draw. Cannabis oil used in vape pens typically contains far higher THC levels than traditional flower. Because vaping doesn’t involve combustion, more THC is absorbed, leading to stronger effects and greater cognitive impact.

Despite these appealing features, many users remain unaware—or indifferent—to the health and legal risks involved. Authorities have intercepted millions of illegal products, yet experts estimate only a fraction of black-market vapes are seized. To understand the full risks, read more in the next section about the health consequences and legal ramifications of THC vape use in the U.S.