THE HIDDEN CHEMICALS IN HEADPHONES: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

James Klusener

@jamesklusener

A recent article by Luis Prada, published in Vice media, has raised concerns about the safety of earphones and headphones. The study was released by a European-funded organisation called ToxFREE LIFE for All, which found Bisphenol A (BPA) in 98% of tested headphones, a potentially harmful chemical. The initiative tested 81 in-ear and over-ear models from major brands and online retailers. The tests detected BPA, a chemical commonly used in food packaging, which researchers linked to reproductive issues, cancer, and developmental problems.

The study focused on headphones that are both in-ear and over-ear. These included major brands like Apple, Sony, Samsung and Sennheiser, as well as cheaper and replica brands found on Shein and Temu. Some models were deemed safe, like Apple’s AirPods or Sony’s WH-1000XM series, but other brands like Samsung and Sennheiser, as well as all the brands off Temu and Shein, were deemed hazardous. Furthermore, the report stated that because chemicals like BPA harden plastic, prolonged headphone use accelerated their release. Researchers warned that when users sweat during workouts, the skin absorbed these chemicals directly.

According to The Guardian, lab work also detected trace amounts of phthalates, chlorinated paraffins, and flame retardants. Experts identified these as endocrine disruptors that mimicked natural hormones like oestrogen and linked them to early puberty and neurodevelopmental issues. Another article by PC Gamer stated that limiting the use of unsafe headphones, making use of device speakers, and avoiding sleeping with headphones on reduced the risk of long-term chemical exposure.

Although researchers noted there were no immediate health risks, they warned that long-term cumulative exposure became harmful for vulnerable groups like teenagers and advised them to minimise exposure. As a result, people are encouraged to remain aware of the materials used in these devices.

Fake AirPods Max (Source: Reddit.com).

Edited by Genevieve Croeser