Are e-cigarettes dangerous?

E-cigarettes are devices that use a battery to heat a liquid nicotine solution (“e-liquid”). The heated e-liquid creates an aerosol that is breathed into the lungs. They come in all shapes and sizes and go by other names such as e-cigs, vaping devices, hookah pens, vape pens, or mods. Some can only be used once, while others can be refilled. Others have a tank that may hold large amounts of e-liquid containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. E-cigarettes are also used to vape other substances like marijuana and hash oil. Many of them do not look like traditional cigarettes, like Juul, Puff Bars, and Phix which are designed to look like a flash drive or tech device.

E-cigarettes contain nicotine and chemicals that can cause cancer, birth defects, or other health problems.1 The e-liquids themselves are dangerous. Their sweet, fruity flavors appeal to children who may taste or drink the e-liquids, which are poisonous if swallowed, and are harmful if the liquid gets on the skin or in the eyes.2

E-cigarettes contain harmful chemicals. E-cigarettes produce an aerosol, not water vapor, which is a mixture of chemicals and small particles that can hurt the lungs just like cigarette smoke.34 There is not currently enough research on e-cigarettes to prove they are a safer alternative to cigarettes. E-cigarettes are just as addictive as regular cigarettes.5

E-cigarettes pollute the air with tiny particles that get trapped in the lungs. Just like regular cigarettes, secondhand vape from e-cigarettes may hurt others.34

Studies show that e-cigarettes do not help people quit smoking cigarettes.67 Instead, many people end up using both products.8 Over-the-counter and prescription medicines are widely available and very effective at helping people quit smoking cigarettes. Additionally, Kick It California provides free counseling support in six languages at 1-800-300-8086 and KickItCA.org.