By Maisie
In recent years, vaping has massively grown in popularity. Despite being marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, ingredients found in certain e-liquids have been found to impact one’s health negatively. Therefore, it is crucial you are aware of the potential risks they pose.
This article will explore common unsafe chemicals and substances used in vapes and what you should keep an eye out for.
Listed below, are toxic substances that have been found in e-cigarettes that should be avoided:
Nicotine
Nicotine is a highly addictive ingredient found in the majority of e-liquids. Consuming may lead to an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, blood flow to the heart, and narrowing of arteries. It has also been shown to increase the risk of having a heart attack. Not only this but other biological systems like the renal, respiratory and reproductive systems can be negatively affected by nicotine consumption. Though not technically considered a carcinogen, some research has found it to be carcinogenic.
Seeing as it is a highly addictive substance and can have a dangerous impact on your health, it is an ingredient that should be avoided.
Children in particular should stay away from nicotine, as even small amounts of exposure can cause long-lasting changes in brain development. This may interfere with learning, memory, and attention and cause behavioural problems.
Diacetyl
Diacetyl can be used as a flavouring and therefore, is present in some e-liquids. Upon inhalation, it can lead to bronchiolitis obliterans, which is more widely known as “popcorn lung”. It is a chronic condition that worsens with time. The disease causes coughing and shortness of breath due to damage inflicted on the airways of your lungs. To prevent this risk, avoid using diacetyl-containing e-juices.
Heavy metals like - but not limited to - nickel, chromium, lead, and cadmium
Heavy metals can be found in e-cigarette aerosols. Increased exposure to the metals mentioned above has negatively impacted the central nervous system as well as brain development. They have also been linked to causing respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Varying levels of heavy metals are found across different brands of e-cigarettes, with some having higher overall levels and some having lower overall levels.
Benzene
Though less than smoking regular cigarettes, vaping is shown to produce benzene, a known carcinogen. In vapes, benzene is formed from chemicals in e-liquids like propylene glycol, glycerol, benzoic acid, and benzaldehyde. Benzene can lower your white blood cell count, cause damage to your DNA, and increase your risk of certain cancers like leukaemia. Look out for the bolded ingredients that were mentioned above! It is also important to note that the level of benzene inhaled is dependent on the type of vape and how it’s being used. Research has found that vapes being operated at a higher power produce higher levels of benzene in e-cigarette vapours than ones being operated at a lower power. Therefore, to prevent the aforementioned risks, it may be advisable to avoid high-powered vaping devices.
Aldehydes (Acetaldehyde, Formaldehyde & Acrolein)
When vapes are being used, the e-liquid is heated, which can cause the production of the toxic aldehydes mentioned above. They are all classified as carcinogens. Additionally, they have been linked to lead to lung and cardiovascular diseases. Acrolein, in particular, is also known to cause acute lung injuries and asthma. It is best to avoid high-voltage e-cigarettes, as they tend to produce higher levels of these toxic substances.
Diethylene Glycol (DEG)
DEG is used as a base in certain e-liquids. When inhaled, It can irritate the upper respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Also, DEG has been linked to certain lung diseases and infections.
This ingredient is usually found in cheap and mass-market vape liquids.
