Editorial: Teenage vaping a clear and present danger Vaping has become common, but it's important to know what you're inhaling. Many e cigarettes contain nicotine, heavy metals like nickel and lead, and chemicals that can harm your lungs and overall health. Vaping Harmless. Vape aerosol contains toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, arsenic, lead, chromium, and nickel. They damage lungs. They harm developing brains. They raise cancer risks. We Vaping, Smoking and Your Oral Health: Hidden Risks