How do you choose the right earplugs?

The SNR (Single Number Rating) indicates the noise reduction in dB: less than 20 dB for sleeping and travel, 20 to 30 dB for concerts and motorsports, and more than 30 dB for noisy work environments.

How can you protect your ears on a daily basis?

Follow the 60/60 rule for headphones (60% volume, 60 minutes max), bring earplugs to loud events, let your ears rest in silence after intense exposure, and see a doctor if you experience tinnitus or hearing loss.

Noise and Hearing: How Can You Protect Your Ears?

Q: What is noise, and what are its effects?

Noise is measured in decibels (dB) and has real effects on health, including stress, sleep disturbances, and hearing risks. At levels above 85 dB without protection, it damages the hair cells in the cochlea, often irreversibly.

Q: How does noise affect hearing?

The hair cells in the inner ear do not regenerate. Each instance of excessive exposure contributes to progressive hearing loss, tinnitus (persistent ringing, the first warning sign), sleep disturbances, and temporary auditory fatigue.

Q: What hearing protection options are available against noise?

Disposable expanded foam earplugs (SNR up to 37 dB) for concerts and travel, reusable silicone earplugs for sleep and transportation, noise-canceling headphones for very noisy environments, and custom-molded earplugs made by an audiologist.

Q: What noise levels are dangerous?

According to the WHO and the INRS: above 85 dB, damage can occur after just 8 hours of exposure. Above 100 dB, damage occurs in less than an hour. Above 120 dB, the risk is immediate.

Noise is one of the leading preventable risk factors for hearing loss. Whether from occupational exposure, recreational activities (concerts, headphones), or everyday life, high noise levels gradually damage the inner ear and can cause tinnitus or irreversible hearing loss. Hearing protection is the simplest and most effective way to preserve your hearing.

What is noise, and what are its effects?

Noise refers to any unwanted or annoying sound, measured in decibels (dB). Beyond being a nuisance, it has real effects on health: stress, sleep disturbances, and, above all, risks tohearing. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 dB without protection damages the hair cells in the cochlea—a condition that is often irreversible.

How does noise affect hearing?

The hair cells in the inner ear do not regenerate. Each instance of excessive exposure contributes to their cumulative deterioration.

Progressive hearing loss, often detected too late
Tinnitus: persistent ringing or buzzing, the first warning sign
Sleep disturbances and insomnia in people exposed to noise at night
Temporary auditory fatigue after a concert or exposure to a noisy environment

What hearing protection options are available against noise?

Our health and beauty store offers a range of hearing protection options for every situation. Check out our selection in the hearing protection category.

Disposable earplugs: made of foam, SNR up to 37 dB, for concerts and travel
Reusable earplugs: made of silicone, washable, suitable for everyday use (sleeping, commuting)
Noise-canceling headphones: enhanced protection for very noisy environments (home improvement, construction sites)
Custom-fit earplugs: molded by a hearing aid specialist for optimal protection and comfort

How to choose the right earplugs?

The main criterion isthe SNR (Single Number Rating): it indicates the noise reduction in dB.

SNR < 20 dB: sleeping, focusing, traveling
SNR 20–30 dB: concerts, motor sports, parties
SNR > 30 dB: noisy work environments, intensive DIY projects

For infants and young children, use appropriate hearing protection whenever they are exposed to noise levels exceeding 85 dB. If in doubt,an ENT specialist or audiologist can assess your hearing profile.

What noise levels are dangerous?

Recommendations fromthe WHO and the INRS define thresholds that should not be exceeded without protection.

Above 85 dB: potential damage after 8 hours of exposure (workshop, heavy traffic)
Above 100 dB: damage can occur in less than 1 hour (nightclub, concert)
Above 120 dB: pain and immediate risk (explosion, nearby siren)

How can you protect your ears in everyday life?

A few simple habits can help preserve your hearing in the long term.

Follow the 60/60 rule for headphones: 60% of maximum volume, 60 minutes maximum
Bring earplugs to concerts, parties, and other loud events
Let your ears rest in silence after intense exposure
See a doctor if you experience tinnitus, hearing loss, or recurringear, nose, and throat (ENT) infections