They look like real cigarettes from afar, but the electronic cigarettes are not cigarettes at all.

The device debuted in 2008, but is just now gaining momentum with those trying to kick the smoking habit.

These faux smokes vaporize liquid nicotine, turning it into a puff of smoke.  Smokers are finding that this is an easier method of quitting because they don’t miss any of their old habits.  They get the nic kick, the oral fixation, and even get to blow smoke rings.

The electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette, is powered by a small battery.  The nicotine cartridges can be replaced and are sold separately.  Many companies are giving the device away with a reoccurring monthly purchase of nicotine cartridges.

Because the e-cigarettes emit vapor, makers are claiming that the e-cig can be used anywhere, including places where smoking is banned.

The downside is that most of these electronic cigarettes are made in China and have not gone through any testing by the FDA like other nicotine curbing products sold in the U.S.

And it is because of this that some doctors have a problem with electronic cigarettes.  Dr. Matthew Mintz is board certified in internal medicine.  Mintz recently appeared on a CBS morning show to warn about the unknown effects.  On his online blog, Mintz wrote, “Though the FDA may have limited ability to stop what is being sold on the Internet from other countries, they must do a better job in regulating what is sold here.”