Every Pair Of Headphones In New Study Found To Contain Toxic Chemicals

by Aaron Leong — Thursday, February 19, 2026, 10:28 AM EDT

A wide-scale investigation has revealed that the headphones millions of people wear daily for work, exercise, and leisure are leaching a cocktail of hazardous forever chemicals and endocrine disruptors (think BPA) directly into their bodies. Conducted by the ToxFree LIFE for All project and spearheaded by the environmental group Arnika, the study tested 81 pairs of headphones and found that every single product contained substances linked to cancer, infertility, and developmental issues.

The research examined a broad spectrum of hardware, ranging from premium models from Apple, Bose, Samsung, and Sennheiser to budget-friendly options sold on platforms like Shein and Temu. Regardless of the price point or brand reputation, the lab results were telling: toxic chemicals are baked into the very plastic formulation of these devices. Bisphenol A (BPA), a synthetic chemical that mimics estrogen, was detected in 98% of the samples, while its equally concerning substitute, Bisphenol S (BPS), appeared in more than three-quarters. Granted, each sample tested had varying degrees of toxicity, some faring much better than others, although the immediate takeaway is that the chemical makeup is a crap-shoot even between models of one particular brand.

Because headphones are worn in direct contact with the skin for prolonged periods, they serve as a persistent delivery system for toxins. The researchers highlighted that heat and sweat, particularly during workouts, act as catalysts that accelerate the transfer of chemicals from the plastic into the skin. This dermal absorption bypasses the digestive system and enters the bloodstream directly. Furthermore, the study also found phthalates, which can impair reproductive health, and chlorinated paraffins, which are associated with liver and kidney damage.

Obviously there's concern about the cocktail effect these toxins can cause, where the cumulative exposure to small amounts creates a significant long-term health risk. While a single use won't cause immediate illness, the chronic exposure, such as in vulnerable groups like teenagers whose hormonal systems are still developing, could mean a major public health issue. Karolína Brabcová, chemical expert at Arnika, noted that "there is no truly 'safe' level for endocrine disruptors that mimic our natural hormones."

Currently, in many countries headphones are categorized similarly to televisions or stationary appliances, ignoring the fact that they are worn against the body. Campaigners are already now demanding stricter bans on entire classes of harmful additives and greater transparency from tech giants regarding their supply chains, and the results of this study will definitely fuel that fire.

Until such regulations are enacted, consumers are left with few options to protect themselves. We can suggest limiting headphone use to necessary periods, avoiding wearing them while sleeping, and opting for external speakers when possible.