Chroming: The Dangerous Teen Trend Spreading Online — What Parents Need to Know
How Did This Trend Go Viral?
Social media is fueling the fire.
On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, videos show teens laughing, staggering, or passing out after inhaling fumes — often tagged with hashtags like #chroming or #highoffthis.
These clips are misleadingly framed as “funny” or “harmless pranks” — with little to no warning about the risks.
- The anonymity of online sharing hides the real consequences
- Peer pressure and the desire for likes push teens to try it
- Many don’t realize they’re playing with life and death
And because these products are not labeled as drugs, teens — and even some parents — don’t recognize them as dangerous.
Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For
Chroming can be hard to detect — but there are red flags:
Behavioral Signs:
- Sudden mood swings or irritability
- Slurred speech or poor coordination
- Unexplained laughter or dizziness
- Secretive behavior, especially in bathrooms or garages
Physical Signs:
- Chemical smell on breath or clothes
- Paint stains on hands, face, or clothing
- Red or runny nose, nosebleeds, or sores around the mouth
- Empty aerosol cans hidden in backpacks, drawers, or trash
Environmental Clues:
- Missing spray cans
- Plastic bags or rags with strong odors
- Increased online activity around inhalant use
