Think Nicotine-Free Vaping Is Safe? Think Again

Many people switch to vaping thinking it’s a safer alternative to smoking — especially without nicotine. But new research shows that even nicotine-free vapes can harm your blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and circulatory problems.

While traditional cigarettes release thousands of harmful chemicals, vape liquids still contain ingredients like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, which form harmful byproducts when heated. These can lead to lung inflammation, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Flavored vape juices often contain toxic chemicals like:

• Diacetyl (linked to popcorn lung), Benzaldehyde (a respiratory irritant), Heavy metals from vape coils

A 2024 study compared nicotine-free vapes, nicotine vapes, and traditional cigarettes. All three had negative effects on blood vessel function, with nicotine vapes causing the most damage — but nicotine-free vapes still showed harmful impact.

Dr. Marianna Nabbout explained:

“Even short-term vape use affects the vascular system. Long-term use could lead to serious disease.”

Experts warn that non-smokers, especially youth, should avoid vaping entirely, even without nicotine.

Bottom line: Vaping without nicotine is not harmless. It can damage your lungs and blood vessels, and the long-term effects may be serious.