Is Vaping Worse Than Smoking? St. Vincent's Medical Center Vaping: What Parents Need to Know Vaping isn't harmless it's a serious concern. Most vape products contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can impact developing brains and overall health. Just How Harmful Is Vaping? More Evidence Is Emerging. The New York Times Young people who vape are 3 times more likely to take up smoking cigarettes. Vaping can lead to lung damage and can be harmful for young brains, which are still developing until