The Hidden Danger: Aerosol Abuse in Young People
27 October 2025
One of the fantastic things about working in the third sector is the enthusiasm to work together and pull resources, share knowledge, experience. Having met at a fresher’s fayre, we were delighted to welcome Diane from Re-Solv, and with her help, we dug a little deeper….
Where previously solvent abuse might have been more commonly associated with sniffing glue, we’re now hearing about new trends among young people involving the abuse of everyday household aerosols to get high. From deodorant sprays to air fresheners, these seemingly harmless products are being misused in a way that poses serious health risks.
The Children and young people’s substance misuse treatment statistics 2023 to 2024 report, published on the 28th of November 2024 found “The number of children and young people in treatment for solvent and inhalant misuse, which includes using nitrous oxide, continued to increase.”
The use of balloons is seeing an increase in popularity. Huffing balloons, often involving nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a growing concern among teens. Popular at music events and festivals, it may seem harmless, but it can cause oxygen deprivation, fainting, nerve damage, and even sudden death. Kids may be drawn to it for a quick, legal high, often underestimating the serious risks.
You might also hear young people talking about Galaxy Gas – a tiktok trend marketed with colourful cannisters and flavours, such as mango smoothie. Easy to obtain and even promoted by several pop artists, it looks deceptively harmless but still carries the risks of solvent abuse.
What Is Aerosol Abuse?
Aerosol abuse, often referred to as “huffing,” involves inhaling the chemical fumes from aerosol sprays to experience a short-term high. The chemicals in these products — such as butane, propane, and other hydrocarbons — affect the brain rapidly, leading to dizziness, hallucinations, euphoria, and loss of coordination. The effects can be felt in seconds, but they wear off quickly, leading many users to inhale repeatedly in a short period.
Why Are Young People Doing It?
Teenagers and pre-teens are particularly vulnerable to inhalant abuse for may reasons:
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Accessibility: Aerosol products are cheap, legal, and often found in most homes.
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Lack of Awareness: Many young people (and even adults) don’t realize how dangerous inhalants can be.
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Peer Pressure: Curiosity and the desire to fit in can push adolescents to try risky behaviors, especially when they seem harmless.
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Short-acting High: The quick, intense high can be tempting, especially for those dealing with emotional or mental health challenges.
The Real Dangers
While the high from inhalants is brief, the damage they can cause is not. Inhaling aerosol chemicals can lead to:
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Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome: This can occur after just one use. The chemicals can cause heart failure or suffocation.
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Brain Damage: Long-term use can result in permanent brain damage, memory loss, and cognitive impairment.
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Liver and Kidney Damage: The body struggles to filter out these toxins, putting stress on major organs.
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Addiction: Repeated use can lead to psychological dependence.
There are also cases of young people collapsing or dying after inhaling in private, often without warning signs.
Spotting the Signs
If you’re concerned, look for signs like slurred speech, dizziness, or empty whipped cream cans or balloons. Other tell tale sign can be:
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Unusual chemical smells on breath or clothes
- Sores around the mouth
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Paint or stains on face and hands
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Sudden changes in behavior or academic performance
What Can Be Done?
Education is the first line of defense. Young people need honest, age-appropriate information about the risks of aerosol abuse. Conversations at home and school should highlight the real dangers without resorting to scare tactics.
Parents and care givers should monitor household products and be aware of any missing items. Building trust and open communication with teens can make a big difference — when young people feel safe talking about their challenges, they’re less likely to turn to harmful substances.
Aerosol abuse might not get as much attention as other forms of drug use, but its impact can be just as harmful. By staying informed, staying alert, and opening up honest conversations, we can help protect young people from this hidden but deadly danger.