What are E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices?

E-cigarettes, vapes, vape or hookah pens, e-pipes, and other vaping products are battery-powered devices that allow users to inhale, or vape, aerosolized liquid (e-juice). Beginning July 1, 2019, Illinois law prohibits the sale of tobacco products, including these products, to people younger than age 21.

E-cigarettes recently surpassed conventional cigarettes as the most commonly used tobacco product among youth.¹ It is critical that public health officials and the general public understand the potential risks of using them.

How Do E-cigarettes and Vaping Devices Work?

• E-cigarettes produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals that help to make the aerosol.

• The liquid used in e-cigarettes often contains nicotine and flavorings. This liquid is sometimes called “e-juice,” “e-liquid,” “vape juice,” or “vape liquid.”

• Users inhale e-cigarette aerosol into their lungs. Bystanders can also breathe in this aerosol when the user exhales it into the air.

• E-cigarette devices can be used to deliver marijuana and other drugs.