Health Effects of Vaping Vaping has become common, but it's important to know what you're inhaling. Many e cigarettes contain nicotine, heavy metals like nickel and lead, and chemicals that can harm your lungs and overall health. Since their introduction in Europe in 2006 and the U.S. in 2007, the use of e cigarettes a.k.a., vapes has skyrocketed. A recent review from researchers in Australia found the results Nonnicotine vapes may be marketed as safe, but many still contain chemicals, have unknown health effects, and aren't FDAregulated. Teens are using them more ofteneven alongside nicotine vapes. No ecigarette is risk free. Health Risks of Secondhand Smoke and Aerosols Factsheet US EPA