Do electronic cigarettes create thirdhand chemical residue? Thirdhand Smoke Resource Center E Cigarettes and Vaping OHSU Vaping Versus Smoking: Are Electronic Cigarettes the Savior? Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology Vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, but many vape products contain nicotine, harmful chemicals, and heavy metals that can harm developing brains and lungs. Is Vaping as Bad for Your Health as Smoking? Connect Community BCBSIL 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.