How Electronic Cigarettes Work HowStuffWorks How likely is your e cigarette to explode? All about vapes what's in them, how do they work, and more Philip Morris International How Do E Cigarettes Work? Dispergo Vaping Vaping refers to the use of an electronic cigarette, or other vaping device, to breathe in an aerosol, often containing nicotine, flavouring and other chemicals. Unlike cigarette smoking, vaping doesn't burn tobacco.