What's in Hookah Smoke

Hookah smoke contains: nicotine, carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde, acrolein, heavy metals (lead, chromium, nickel), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Research Data

According to WHO and CDC, one hookah session (40-60 min) involves inhaling 100-200 puffs (vs 20 for one cigarette). Inhaled smoke volume is significantly larger.

How to Minimize Risks

• Frequency: Smoke less often. Daily smoking significantly increases risks.
• Coal quality: Use only fully lit coconut coals.
• Tobacco quality: Check the excise marking and manufacturer details on the pack.
• Ventilation: Smoke in well-ventilated areas or outdoors.
• Hygiene: Clean your hookah after each use. Use personal mouthpieces.

In short

What's in hookah smoke?

Hookah smoke contains nicotine, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, acrolein, heavy metals (lead, chromium, nickel), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

How many puffs does one hookah session involve?

According to WHO and CDC, one hookah session (40-60 minutes) involves inhaling 100-200 puffs versus 20 for one cigarette, and the inhaled smoke volume is significantly larger.

Does smoking frequency affect the risks?

Yes — daily hookah smoking significantly increases the risks, so the recommendation is to smoke less often.

What kind of coal should be used?

Only fully lit coconut coals should be used.

How can risks be reduced when smoking hookah?

Check the excise marking and manufacturer details on the tobacco pack, smoke in well-ventilated areas or outdoors, and clean the hookah with personal mouthpieces after each use.