Vaping is not harmless water vapour
Australian Government health information explains that vape aerosol is made by heating liquid chemicals that are breathed into the lungs.
Australian school project · 2025
What's really inside
a vape?
Six key Australian health facts on vaping, plus an interactive look at the chemicals found in vape aerosol.
Explore what's inside ScrollInteractive section
Inside a vape
Each card is a real chemical found in vape aerosol. Flip any card to see where else it appears.
Facts from Australian sources
What students should know
Nicotine can be hidden
The Australian Government says most vapes available in Australia contain nicotine, even when packaging says they do not.
Nicotine is addictive
Nicotine can create dependence quickly. When nicotine levels drop, cravings and withdrawal symptoms can happen.
Young brains are still developing
Australian youth vaping information says nicotine can affect attention, learning, memory, and mood while the brain is still developing.
Withdrawal usually improves
Cravings, poor concentration, irritability, sleep trouble, dizziness, and appetite changes can happen after quitting, but Australian Government advice says symptoms improve over time.
Support makes quitting easier
Health advice recommends planning for triggers and getting help from trusted people, health professionals, Quitline, or quitting apps.
Where the information came from
Australian sources and support
Quitting can take more than one attempt. Australian guidance recommends planning ahead and getting support from trusted people or health professionals.
Australian Government: Vaping facts Health effects, nicotine dependence, withdrawal, and illegal vape ingredients. Australian Government: Going vape-free Reasons to quit, cravings, triggers, and support options. Quit: Help to quit vaping Australian quitting advice and practical support. Quitline Australia: 13 7848 Free quitting support by phone.