Nicotine disrupts normal brain development in the prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for executive function and decision-making. This can result in permanent deficits in focus, memory, and concentration. Nicotine can also interfere with the parts of the brain responsible for mood and self-control.

Nicotine works by taking over the part of our brains that are responsible for recognizing pleasure. It “hijacks” our brain’s reward pathway with an unusually high surge of dopamine. The brain adapts to that surge, and in order to maintain that level, the brain needs more nicotine. The teenage brain is especially sensitive to nicotine’s effects on the reward system, which can lead to dependence faster than many parents expect. 

Many newer nicotine products contain no tobacco leaf but still carry the same addictive properties and similar health risks due to nicotine exposure. Vapes, pouches, and other modern products such as “Zyn” pouches can deliver high doses of nicotine in new, discreet forms that are often designed to appeal to teens.

Fruit, mint, and candy-like flavors, along with discreet packaging, are not accidental. They are widely used to increase appeal among young people and normalize frequent use.

The earlier a teen begins using nicotine, the more likely they are to develop ongoing dependence and face difficulty quitting later, even if use starts as occasional or social.

While overall cigarette use remains far lower than in previous decades, there are concerning signals in some communities and social media trends showing renewed curiosity or experimentation with cigarettes, sometimes framed as “retro” or anti-vape.