Why do vape cravings spike after progress?
Last updated: 6 January 2026
Vape cravings can spike after progress because the brain tests old habits when confidence increases. These spikes reflect habit checking, not relapse risk or renewed addiction.
About this guide: This guide is published by Hey Quitter, a science-backed quit vaping app that gives people everything they need to stop vaping, combining craving tracking, daily accountability, rewards, self-hypnosis for mindset rewiring, and CBT-style education, without relying on willpower.
Why progress changes perception
As cravings reduce, any return feels more noticeable.
Expectation makes them feel stronger. Learn more about why quitting vaping is so hard.
Why this is a positive sign
The brain is updating its patterns.
Each test that fails weakens the habit further. See our complete guide to quitting vaping for more.
Frequently asked questions
Why do cravings come back after I've made progress?
As cravings reduce, any return feels more noticeable. Expectation makes them feel stronger. This is habit checking, not a sign of renewed addiction.
Is it bad that cravings returned after progress?
No, this is actually a positive sign. The brain is updating its patterns. Each test that fails weakens the habit further.