The Chemistry of Vaping ChemistryViews E cigarettes: Facts, stats and regulations Truth About E Cigarettes and Vaping: Are They Safer Than Smoking for Lung Cancer Risk? E cigarettes almost always contain nicotine. Vaping can expose you and others around you to harmful chemicals, such as: E Cigarettes: Know the Health Risks Department of Health 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.