TikTok trend: teens crafting 'legal vapes' from pens and gum
A new trend has emerged on the internet: young people have found a way to "vape" legally. On TikTok, there are numerous tutorials advising how to make your e-cigarette. You only need an empty pen tube and chewing gum to construct it. But is this solution harmless to the health of young people?
11:57 AM EDT, June 12, 2024
E-cigarettes have become very common among young people. Often, underaged individuals reach for them. The flavored air and colorful packaging encourage the use of the product. Unfortunately, electronic cigarettes are just as harmful and addictive as standard tobacco products. Teenagers have found a new way to "intoxicate" themselves. Their creativity knows no bounds.
Vapes from pens and chewing gum
TikTok, previously known as Music.ly, is a social media platform quickly gaining enormous popularity worldwide. The app allows users to create, share, and watch short videos.
The portal often features new trends and challenges. The more people participate in them, the more popular they become. Currently, viral tutorials on TikTok are gaining traction on how to make a legal "vape" for individuals under 18 years old. You only need an empty pen tube and Airways-brand chewing gum to create them. Teens pack a menthol cartridge into the pen body and use it like an e-cigarette.
Are legal "vapes" harmful to health?
At this moment, there is no precise information on whether these homemade vapes are harmful to human health. Although no one has conducted tests on whether inhaling gum can be dangerous, the habit formed in this manner could lay the foundation for addiction in the future. Additionally, there is no certainty that the substances in the menthol cartridge are not addictive.
Unfortunately, many young people are thrilled with the idea: "What a trip," "Wow, this really works," "I have to make one so I can 'smoke' during classes," "Finally, my parents won't nag me," "This is awesome, it tastes amazing."
