The widespread use of headphones has become an integral part of our daily lives, with people wearing them at work, during play, and even at the gym. However, a recent investigation by the ToxFREE project has found that every single pair of headphones tested contains substances hazardous to human health, including chemicals that can cause cancer, neurodevelopmental problems, and the feminisation of males.
According to Karolína Brabcová, a chemical expert at Arnika, part of the ToxFree LIFE for All project, these chemicals are not just additives, but may be migrating from the headphones into our bodies. The investigation found that even products by market-leading brands such as Bose, Panasonic, Samsung, and Sennheiser contain harmful chemicals in the formulation of the plastics from which they are made.
As reported by The Guardian, the use of synthetic chemicals in consumer goods has become a growing concern worldwide, with many chemicals linked to drastic biological effects. The ToxFREE project's investigation into headphones is particularly significant, given the prolonged skin contact associated with headphone use, which represents a relevant pathway for dermal exposure.
Chemicals Found in Headphones
The investigation found that bisphenol A (BPA) appeared in 98% of samples, and its substitute, bisphenol S (BPS), was found in more than three-quarters. Synthetic chemicals used to stiffen plastic, BPA and BPS mimic the action of oestrogen inside organisms, causing a range of adverse effects including the feminisation of males, early onset puberty in girls, and cancer.
Other chemicals found in the headphones tested include phthalates, potent reproductive toxins that can impair fertility; chlorinated paraffins, which have been linked to liver and kidney damage; and brominated and organophosphate flame retardants, which have similar endocrine disrupting properties to bisphenols. Most of these chemicals were found in only trace quantities, but the cumulative effect of daily exposure is still a concern.
Long-term Health Risks
While individual doses from particular sources may be low, a “cocktail effect” of daily, multi-source exposure poses potentially severe long-term risks to health. The ToxFREE project's investigation highlights the need for greater transparency from manufacturers about what is in their products and the importance of broad bans on whole classes of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in consumer goods.
According to Brabcová, “Daily use – especially during exercise when heat and sweat are present – accelerates this migration directly to the skin. Although there is no immediate health risk, the long-term exposures – especially for vulnerable groups like teenagers – is of great concern. There is no ‘safe’ level for endocrine disruptors that mimic our natural hormones.”
Previous Investigations
The headphones investigation is the third undertaken by the ToxFREE project. Previous investigations found bisphenol A, a known hormone disruptor, in baby dummies, including some labelled BPA-free, and that one in three pairs of women’s underpants contained toxic chemicals.
Campaigners from the ToxFREE project are calling for greater awareness and action to address the issue of hazardous substances in consumer goods. As the use of headphones continues to grow, it is essential to consider the potential long-term health risks associated with their use and to demand greater transparency and accountability from manufacturers.
