Youth Vaping and Nicotine

The nicotine in vaping products is highly addictive and can harm the developing brains of young people, affecting memory, learning, and attention. This is why youth need to avoid products that contain nicotine.

Why is vaping harmful for youth?

• Nicotine is very addictive and can change how the brain develops

• Vaping can make you more likely to start smoking cigarettes later

• Some vape products have as much nicotine in a single pod as an entire pack of cigarettes

• Even vapes without nicotine can have harmful chemicals

What are the vaping laws in Ontario?

In Ontario, the Smoke-Free Ontario Act has rules about where people can vape. These laws help keep youth from being exposed to vaping products in places like schools, parks, and stores. For example, vaping is not allowed in indoor public spaces, workplaces, and certain outdoor areas.

Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) makes sure these rules are followed to help protect young people. You can learn more about where vaping is allowed or restricted by checking out our page on the enforcement of smoke-free places. It’s important to talk openly with your kids about vaping.

Thinking about quitting smoking with vaping?

There’s not enough research to prove that vaping is an effective way to quit smoking, especially for youth. SWPH does not recommend using vape products as a quit-smoking method. For other ways to quit or reduce smoking, talk to your healthcare provider or explore our resources on quitting smoking.

How do I start a conversation with youth about vaping?

• Get tips on speaking with youth about vaping from Health Canada to start a productive conversation

• Explore Health Canada’s guide on considering the consequences of vaping for a comprehensive look at its impact

• Learn about the effects of vaping on youth with insights from Not an Experiment

• Check out our Use Your Instincts page for additional resources on vaping and how to support youth

What are nicotine pouches and why should youth avoid them?

Nicotine pouches are small, flavoured packets designed to release nicotine into your system without tobacco or smoking. Popular brands like Zyn and Zonnic market these pouches as a discreet alternative to cigarettes or vaping. However, they are far from harmless, especially for youth.

Why are nicotine pouches harmful to youth?

• High nicotine content: These pouches can quickly lead to nicotine addiction, affecting brain areas tied to attention, learning, and impulse control

• Misleading marketing: The "tobacco-free" label might seem safer, but it doesn't mean these products are risk-free. Youth are still vulnerable to nicotine addiction, which can increase the chance of using other tobacco products

• Mental health impact: Nicotine is linked to stress, anxiety, and mood regulation issues. Learn more about the effects of nicotine on mental health from Not an Experiment

What is being done to protect youth from nicotine patches?

In August 2024, Health Canada introduced stricter rules to reduce youth access to and appeal of nicotine pouches:

• No advertising or packaging aimed at youth

• Sales are limited to pharmacies, with products kept behind the counter

• Only mint or menthol flavours are allowed

• Labels must include warnings about nicotine addiction and clarify that these are for adult smoking cessation