Vaping and Young People: What Parents Need to Know

There has been a noticeable increase in vaping among teenagers across Victorian schools. While many young people see vaping as harmless or “just flavouring,” the reality is very different. Vapes can contain addictive nicotine, toxic chemicals and substances known to damage developing brains and lungs. 

As parents and carers, open conversations and accurate information are some of the most powerful tools we have to help young people make informed decisions. 

What is vaping? 

Vaping involves breathing in aerosol (mist or vapour) created by heating liquid inside an electronic cigarette or “vape.” These devices can look like highlighters, USBs, pens or small electronic gadgets, making them easy to conceal. 

Although some vapes are labelled “nicotine-free,” research has found that many still contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals. 

What chemicals are found in vapes? 

Illegal and unregulated vapes can contain more than 200 chemicals, including: 

• Nicotine – a highly addictive poison that can affect brain development  

• Formaldehyde – used in industrial glues and preserving chemicals  

• Acetone – commonly found in nail polish remover  

• Acetaldehyde – used in plastics and chemical manufacturing  

• Acrolein – a toxic chemical also found in weedkiller  

• Heavy metals such as lead, nickel and tin  

• Ultrafine particles and flavouring chemicals that can damage lung tissue  

These substances are inhaled directly into the lungs and bloodstream. 

How vaping affects young people 

Even occasional vaping can affect a young person’s health. 

Short-term effects may include: 

• Coughing and throat irritation  

• Shortness of breath and wheezing  

• Nausea and vomiting  

• Headaches and dizziness  

• Mouth irritation and gum problems  

• Reduced fitness and sports performance  

• Asthma flare-ups  

Long-term risks may include: 

• Lung damage  

• Heart disease  

• Nicotine addiction  

• Anxiety and mood changes  

• Problems with concentration, memory and learning  

• Increased risk of cancer  

Young people’s brains continue developing until their mid-to-late 20s. Exposure to nicotine during adolescence can affect attention, memory, learning and emotional regulation. 

Research also shows that young people who vape are more likely to go on to smoke cigarettes. 

Common myths about vaping 

Talking to your child about vaping 

Conversations about vaping can feel difficult, but they are important and can make a real difference. 

Helpful approaches include: 

• Start conversations early and keep them calm and casual  

• Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgement  

• Avoid lectures, scare tactics or accusations  

• Share accurate facts rather than exaggerating risks  

• Focus on health, wellbeing and addiction concerns  

• Reinforce that most young people do not vape  

• Discuss strategies for handling peer pressure  

Some helpful responses young people can use if offered a vape include: 

• “No thanks, that’s not my thing.”  

• “I don’t like it.”  

• “It gives me a headache.”  

• “I’m trying to stay healthy for sport.”  

Victorian vaping laws 

Under the Tobacco Act 1987 (Victoria): 

• Smoking and vaping are banned on school grounds and within 4 metres of school entrances  

• Smoking and vaping are prohibited during school activities, events and excursions  

• It is illegal to sell vape products to anyone under 18  

• Smoking or vaping in a car with a person under 18 present is illegal  

How parents can help 

Parents can help by: 

• Modelling healthy behaviour  

• Keeping communication open and respectful  

• Supporting young people who want to quit  

• Seeking professional help if needed  

Many young people who vape report wanting to stop but struggle because of nicotine addiction. 

Support and resources 

Support is available for both parents and young people: 

• Quitline: 13 78 48  

• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800  

• headspace: 1800 650 890  

• DirectLine: 1800 888 236  

• Youth Drugs and Alcohol Advice: 1800 458 685  

Helpful online resources: 

• Quit Victoria  

• VicHealth Vaping Information  

• Better Health Channel – Vaping  

• Royal Children’s Hospital – E-cigarettes and Teens  

• Therapeutic Goods Administration – Vaping Information  

By working together, families, schools and the wider community, we can better support young people to make healthy choices and reduce the harms associated with vaping.