Vaping 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 ? () Although often promoted as safer than traditional cigarettes, e cigarettes still harm the body in many ways. 1. Health Risks Most vapes contain nicotine, Print and Download About Vaping Prevention Resources HHS.gov