Why Does My THC Vape Cartridge Oil Turn Dark Brown

If you've been vaping for a while now, you may have noticed your vape cannabis cartridge changing color. In particular, there's a chance that you may have noticed your cartridge has taken on a darker brown hue the longer it sits.

It might not seem like a big deal — but it is! Why? A darker THC vape cartridge means less potent cannabis concentrates and altered flavors. When your THC vape cartridge goes dark, it'll be time to switch things up for a newer cartridge containing fresh concentrates.

Why does the color change? Lets get into the reasons why THC vape cartridges change color.

Stick around to the end to lengthen the lifespans of your cartridges and learn where to go for the best cannabis strains, vape carts, concentrates, and flower pre-rolls.

What's Inside Your Cannabis Vape Cartridge?

To understand the dark brownish hues your cartridge takes, it's key to know what's in it.

Your THC vape cartridge contains a potent and flavorful combo that can take on several colors. However even with so many strains and concentrates most vape concentrates are of a golden to amber-like shade.

The initial golden hue signifies the quality and purity of these components. As you enjoy your vape, these elements undergo subtle changes over time, leading to the brownish color change in your THC vape cartridge.

How the Oil in Cartridges Change Over Time

What causes the oil to change after months of use? The answer is oxidation.

Oxidation happens when the contents of your THC vape cartridge are exposed to light, heat, and air. When exposed, the molecules in your cartridge's saucy concentrates interact with oxygen.

The chemical interaction between the concentrate and oxygen changes the concentrate or oil's color. Due to the gold and amber-like color of oils and concentrates, they most likely take on dark brown.

3 Ways to Tell If Your Vape Cartridge Has Gone Bad

Vape oils and concentrates in cartridges often lose their flavor or potency after about one year. In rare cases, it can take two years before they go bad and brown.

However, they could go bad sooner. Here are three dead giveaways of aged oils and concentrates that can appear before the one-year expiration date based on the way the vape cart is handled and stored:

• Changes in taste and aroma: Your senses are your best friends here. If you detect a subtle change in aroma or taste, it indicates the natural aging process of the oil.

• Diminished effects: As cartridges age, the potency of effects might slightly decrease. If you find the experience less intense than before, your cartridge might be nearing the end of its optimal usage period.

• The cartridge has turned brown or black: Discoloration is a sign of oxidation. With oxidation comes lower potency and an altered flavor profile. When your cartridge has turned brown or black, it's time for a trip to your local dispensary.

How to Increase the Longevity of Your Vape Cartridge

Popularity of vape cartridges is soaring, evident by increased sales from $1 billion in sales in 2018 to $2.8 billion in 2022. If you're finding it expensive to keep buying new cartridges, here are three ways to extend the lifespan of your current THC vape cartridges:

• Proper Storage: Safeguard your vape pen by storing it in a cool, dark place, shielded from direct sunlight and heat sources. This simple step significantly decelerates the oxidation process, ensuring a prolonged lifespan for your cartridge.

• Moderated Consumption: While it's tempting to indulge in extended vaping sessions, savor the experience with measured puffs. Controlled usage maintains lower temperatures, minimizing heat-related oxidation and preserving the cartridge's quality.

• Rotation Strategy: If you enjoy variety, consider rotating between multiple cartridges and new strains. This practice diversifies your vaping experience and ensures each cartridge ages more slowly, providing a consistent and enjoyable vape every time.

Bonus Tip: Remove the Cartridge From the Battery

When you unplug your cartridge from the battery during your vaping downtime, you're giving it a break from the heat. This cool move keeps the oil at a chill, stable temperature, effectively putting the brakes on the oxidation process. Not carrying your pen in your pocket for long periods of time against your body helps keep its longevity as body heat oxidizes carts much quicker.

Think of it as locking in the freshness and potency of your vape oil for an extended joy ride. It's a nifty little trick to boost the lifespan and keep your THC vape cartridge cruising in style.

Brown Vape Cartridge? Change It Up!

Discoloration in your THC vape carts isn't a question of if — it's a question of when. By changing a darker THC vape cartridge, you'll continue to experience a consistently potent and flavorful vaping experience.

If you're looking for the best THC strains,vapes and flower pre-rolls, we've got you covered! Check out our THC offerings and experience excellence with every puff!