Given the long duration of headphone use, especially during sports, researchers say that skin exposure is a potential pathway. Laboratory analyses revealed the presence of substances linked to reproductive toxicity, as well as others associated with liver, kidney, and endocrine damage, most of which were found in trace amounts. The study confirms there is no immediate health risk but warns of the cumulative effect from repeated low-dose exposure to multiple daily products. The study advises that if you are someone who wears earbuds all day, you may be loading your body with toxic chemicals. Currently, researchers recommend limiting prolonged use, avoiding sleeping with earbuds, and using speakers whenever possible. Headphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, and it is rare to see someone in a public place without them in their ears. Unfortunately, according to an investigation by the 'Toxin-Free For All' organization, this plastic pressing against our ears may carry much more than just music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Researchers tested 81 pairs of in-ear and over-ear headphones sold across Central Europe and online, and it turned out that every pair contained hazardous chemicals. This included products from major brands. The study, as reported by VICE, cites the main culprits as bisphenols, specifically BPA and BPS, which are chemicals used to strengthen plastic. BPA was found in 98% of the samples, while BPS was found in more than three-quarters of them. These substances mimic the estrogen hormone and have been linked to cancer, early puberty, and fertility issues. Previous studies have also shown that bisphenol can transfer from plastic to sweat and be absorbed through the skin.
