Think Nicotine-Free Vaping Is Safe? Think Again.

If you switched from cigarettes to vaping thinking it was a safer choice—especially without nicotine—you’re not alone. But new research says even nicotine-free vaping can still harm your body in serious ways.

While vapes don’t contain smoke or tar like traditional cigarettes, they still heat a liquid—usually made of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin—into an aerosol that you breathe in. These ingredients are considered safe to eat, but inhaling them is another story. They can irritate your lungs and airways, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and inflammation.

Then there’s the issue of flavorings. Many contain chemicals like diacetyl (linked to “popcorn lung”), benzaldehyde, and even trace heavy metals from the device’s coils. These are found even in nicotine-free e-cigarettes.

A 2024 study looked at the effects of regular cigarettes, nicotine vapes, and nicotine-free vapes—and found that all three impaired blood vessel function. While nicotine vapes were the worst offenders, nicotine-free vapes weren’t far behind. In short, it’s not just the nicotine that’s harmful—it’s the ingredients and flavorings, too.

Dr. Marianna Nabbout, one of the study’s lead researchers, warned that just one vaping session can impact your blood vessels. That means long-term use could put you at risk for serious heart and circulation problems.

Even more concerning: Vaping is especially popular among young people who might never have picked up a cigarette. In 2021, over 2 million students in the U.S. reported using e-cigarettes, most opting for flavored versions, according to Johns Hopkins.

So if you thought vaping was harmless—especially the nicotine-free kind—this is your wake-up call.

Know someone who vapes? Share this to help spread the word about the hidden risks.