e-cigarettes and vaping

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vapes) are a device which heats a fluid to create a water-based vapour which is inhaled. The vapour includes flavouring and in some cases nicotine. 

Crucial: There are rules about how much nicotine can be included. Electronic cigarettes sold online or from unlicensed providers are unsafe and may include dangerously high amounts of nicotine or other dangerous substances. Find out more from Oxfordshire Trading Standards.

What the law says

Shops are not allowed to sell vaping products to under 18s. If adults buy vaping products for anyone under 18, they are also breaking the law. 

If companies or shops supply vape products to children, then they can be prosecuted, fined, and shut down.

Crucial: It is still illegal for those aged under 18 to buy a vaping device, even if they pair it with 0% nicotine vape fluid.

Health risks of vaping

As e-cigarettes are new, nobody knows exactly how serious the health risks are. But nicotine is one of the most addictive drugs, and the effects seem to be particularly serious for teenagers. Risks include:

• Addiction
• Changes to the developing brain   
• Side effects, like a sore throat or cough  

Instant expert: Want to know more about the risks of vaping? This BBC investigation into vaping looks at risks and more. 

Do e-cigarettes help you give up smoking?

For some existing smokers, switching to vaping can help them quit. Vaping can also:

• Lower the risk to others from second-hand smoke
• Help you save money – vaping is cheaper than smoking cigarettes
• Lower the risk of accidental fires

If vaping doesn't work for you, there are other methods you can try to help you quit smoking. Talk to your doctor to find out more about these methods, and what might work best for you.

Crucial: Find out all about the support available to help you stop smoking in Oxfordshire. 

Do e-cigarettes encourage young people to start smoking?

Although lots of people are curious about vaping, most will only try it a few times. But those who start vaping regularly often go on to use cigarettes too. 

Your risk of becoming a smoker is higher if:

• Someone in your household smokes
• Someone is supplying you with cigarettes
• You have friends who smoke regularly