Vaping is ageing youngsters by 10 years resulting from METAL and different particles within the vapour, main aesthetics physician warns

Vaping teenagers will age 10 years faster than their peers due to metal in the vapour which causes hair loss and gum recession, a leading doctor has warned. 

Dr Ed Robinson, who runs an award-winning aesthetics clinic in Cheshire, said he had seen clear sings of the trend amongst his patients over the last four years.

He explained: ‘Young adults view vaping as a healthier alternative to cigarettes but in actual fact the repercussions, although less dramatic, are very similar.

‘The vapour contains nicotine, chemicals, metals and tiny particles which, when they land directly on the skin, can accelerate the ageing process.

‘The particles trigger inflammation in skin cells and reduce blood flow, limiting the oxygen and nutrients reaching the skin.

‘They also increase oxidative stress, which breaks down collagen, and boosts levels of MMP enzymes, contributing to wrinkles.’

Dr Robinson said these chemicals led to fine ‘smoker’s lines’ around the mouth as well as a loss of elasticity, dullness and dry skin – all signs of early ageing. 

He added: ‘I now ask about vaping as part of my skin consultations as it is becoming concerning how many vapers are showing signs of accelerated ageing.

Vaping teenagers will age 10 years faster than their peers due to metal in the vapour which causes hair loss and gum recession, a leading doctor has warned (file image)

The above graph shows nickel, antimony and lead levels in tested vapes. The green dotted line shows the cancer risk level for lead. The purple dotted line shows this risk level for antimony, and the red dotted line represents the risk value for non-cancer diseases

‘It is so popular among teenagers and people in their 20s that these signs become visible at young age.

‘Therefore, the cosmetic concerns have encouraged young adults to seek treatments to make them look youthful again.

‘Normally they would not seek such treatments until decades later in their lives.’

An estimated 5.5 million adults vape in the UK, 25 per cent of whom are aged 18-24.

The GMC-registered NHS anaesthetist said: ‘Evidence suggests that vaping contributes to hair thinning and hair loss.

‘It has also been linked to higher levels of gum inflammation, increased plaque buildup, greater risk of gum recession and tooth staining.

‘The result is visible gum recession and yellowing or dull-looking teeth.

‘It is harmful to oral and skin health and these cosmetic issues can become permanent problems.

‘However, it is not too late to change things. Skin tone often improves within weeks of reducing nicotine exposure.

‘The bottom line is that although vaping may be less than smoking, it is far from harmless – especially when it comes to your appearance.

‘It is a lifestyle factor worth considering for anyone who values their cosmetic outcomes.

‘Investing in skincare, aesthetic treatments or dental care is not a wise choice if vaping is still a daily habit.’

Dr Ed Robinson runs CQC-registered and award-winning clinics in Cheshire and London’s Harley Street, founded in 2022.

The GMC-registered doctor has over eight years of medical experience and is an associate member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine.