What is vaping?
Vaping is the inhaling of an aerosol (mist) created by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or other vaping device. The main ingredients are vegetable glycerine and propylene glycol, but most e-liquids also contain nicotine, which must be no more than 2% or 20mg per ml, as well as small amounts of flavourings and sweeteners.
Usually a vape has a container with a heating element. The container holds a nicotine cartridge containing liquid nicotine. When heated, the nicotine changes into a vapour. The nicotine and other ingredients are inhaled into the body.
They were originally intended to help people stop smoking, and are only meant to be used for a short time. But they’re now being used by young people who have never actually smoked.
In Scotland, it’s illegal to sell vapes or e-cigarettes to anyone under 18, or to buy them for someone who’s under 18. But this doesn’t stop young people from getting hold of them.
Further information can be found at NHS Inform and also NHS UK.
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Use of vapes (e-cigarettes) on NHS grounds:
The use of e-cigarettes is permitted on our NHS grounds in a bid to further cut smoking rates. However, they cannot be used in buildings or at entrances and exits to hospitals and other health facilities. Please do not dispose of used e-cigarettes or cartridges in general waste bins.
Smoking is not permitted, inside or outside, on any NHS Hospital site or grounds.
Page last reviewed: 12 March 2025