What is a vape?
A vape is a portable electronic device typically consisting of a mouthpiece, a battery, a reservoir containing liquid (or e-liquid), and a vaporizer (atomizer). The battery provides the energy needed to heat the e-liquid (~150°C), which produces the vapour (aerosol) to be inhaled. The user inhales the vapor through the mouthpiece.
E-liquid contains flavorings, chemicals, and (often) nicotine. This device does not contain tobacco. Some e-cigarettes are disposable, while others are reusable.
What's the problem?
Vapes (rechargeable or single-use/puff) most often contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that is harmful to health. E-liquid generally consists of propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavorings. When heated, an aerosol forms consisting of fine droplets of liquid and various chemicals. This aerosol can irritate the respiratory tract and contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, or acrolein. Some of these substances are considered carcinogens. Electronic cigarettes can damage the lungs and the cardiovascular system. Recent studies also show that nicotine has negative effects on the cardiovascular system (Münzel et al. 2025). Finally, e-liquids contain many substances whose long-term health effects are not yet fully understood.
Often, vapes do not contain traditional nicotine but rather nicotine salts. These allow for rapid and often high absorption of nicotine, which can contribute to the development of dependence. In children and adolescents, nicotine can also affect attention span, learning, and emotional regulation.
The fruity and sweet flavors of e-liquids make them more appealing to young people. In addition, the exhaled vapor has a pleasant smell and doesn’t cling to clothing, hair, etc., making it easier to hide their use. With their colorful and modern designs, electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes are particularly appealing to young people. These factors may explain why electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes are now the most commonly used nicotine product among young people. Teens who use e-cigarettes consume or use other tobacco products and nicotine products more frequently. Studies also show a link between e-cigarette use and subsequent cigarette smoking.
The advertisement specifically targets young people
Advertising campaigns by the tobacco and nicotine industries contribute to the normalization of the use of these products. They convey the implicit message to young people that “smoking is commonplace.” In addition, they make extensive use of social media to attract young people’s attention, which increases their risk of taking up the habit.
How many young people use drugs?
The use of electronic cigarettes among young people has increased in recent years, particularly among girls. In 2022, one-quarter of 15-year-olds had used electronic cigarettes in the past 30 days, including about 2% who used them daily (HBSC, 2022).
The proportion of young people who have ever tried an electronic cigarette / e-cigarette increases significantly with age: from 4% among 11-year-olds to 42% among 15-year-olds.
Among young people aged 15 to 19, 14% use an e-cigarette at least occasionally; 4% do so daily (ESL, 2025).
Use an e-cigarette
at least once in a lifetime
(in %; HBSC 2022)
Use an electronic cigarette / e-cigarette
over the past 30 days, among 15-year-olds
(as a percentage; HBSC 2022)
1.7% every day
5.4% often but not every day
18% less often
74.9% never
Note: “Every day” = 30 out of 30 days; “Often but not every day” = 10 to 29 days; “Less often” = 1 to 9 days; and “Never” = never or not familiar with this product.
What is the legal framework?
Under the Federal Act on Tobacco Products and Electronic Cigarettes (LTab) (in effect since October1, 2024), the supply of tobacco products (cigarettes, heated tobacco products, snus, snuff, cigars, etc.) and nicotine products (electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches) to minors is prohibited. This prohibition applies to both vending machines and online stores: any violation is punishable by law. The minimum age for the sale of tobacco products and nicotine products is set at 18 throughout Switzerland. Every point of sale must display this prohibition in a visible and legible manner.
Vapes and e-cigarettes are often used indoors because they do not leave a smoke odor. However, the Federal Act on Protection Against Passive Smoking stipulates (effective October1, 2024) that it is also prohibited to smoke electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes, including vapes, indoors in public spaces such as educational institutions, movie theaters, museums, theaters, shopping centers, sports facilities, etc.
For more detailsIn short, what should you keep in mind?
- 1.Electronic cigarettes generally contain nicotine, a substance that can lead to dependence. In adolescents, nicotine can impair attention span, learning abilities, and emotional regulation.
- 2.The vapor from electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes also contains other toxic substances, some of which are considered carcinogenic. Their often fruity flavors, attractive designs, and discreet nature make them particularly appealing to young people.
- 3.Consumption has risen sharply in recent years. However, most young people do not consume it daily.
- 4.In Switzerland, the supply (sale and free distribution) of electronic cigarettes is prohibited to those under 18, and their use is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces.
How can we talk to young people about this?
Before discussing this with young people, it’s helpful to feel comfortable with the topic and have a few pointers to help get the conversation started. As parents, teachers, or youth professionals, you’ll find more information on how to talk to young people about this in the “Your Role” section.