What are vapes? iCanQuit What's Actually in Your Vape: A Complete Chemical Breakdown Chemicals in e cigarettes mix together to form new, unexpectedly toxic compounds EurekAlert! Vaping releases toxic chemicals, including heavy metals, as well as ultrafine particles that go deep into the lungs. These increase the risk of heart and lung disorders. Small device. BIG impact. Vapes are NOT harmless and many contain nicotine that can hook the brain in seconds, plus chemicals and metals that can damage the lungs. The earlier What's in Your Vape? A Look at the Chemicals You're Inhaling Chemwatch