Apple AirPods Pro: Users still complaining about ear irritation

Apple's popular AirPods Pro headphones can apparently lead to allergic reactions in the ear canal in some users. The problem has been known since the ANC earbuds were first released in 2019 and has been discussed repeatedly in Apple's support forum for several years. One of the main threads on the topic already has 140 pages and scientific case studies have even been published on the subject in the International Journal of Dermatology.

The current theory is that there is apparently a contact allergy to acrylates in the silicone tips that are inserted into the ear. Apple has yet to offer an adequate solution, although the company has already launched three generations of AirPods Pro (two main models plus a USB-C version).

Itching, discharge, inflammation for those affected

Anyone affected by the problem will feel it in different ways. Initially, it can be a simple itch that disappears when the AirPods Pro, which are based on the in-ear principle, are removed from the ear canal. In more severe cases, however, discharge may even form in the ear in response to prolonged wearing. This can be very unpleasant and disappears again after removal, but often occurs repeatedly in those affected. Finally, inflammation of the ear canal is also known to be the most severe reaction, as bacteria can enter the area as a result of the allergic reaction.

It is unclear how often these problems occur. Most users are unlikely to notice them. In some cases, the allergy does not occur during initial use, but only later. Apple itself only states that skin irritation can occur "if [the AirPods Pro] are not cleaned properly". According to the manufacturer, this proper cleaning simply means using a lint-free cloth and moistening it gegebenenfalls slightly "with fresh water". The microphone and speaker grille should be cleaned with "dry cotton buds". Apple only recommends isopropyl alcohol, which could be used to disinfect the silicone tips, for cleaning the charging case. The company continues succinctly: "If skin problems occur, you should stop using the product. If the symptoms persist, you should seek medical advice." Affected users in the Apple forum have done the latter; many doctors seem to advise simply not to continue using the AirPods Pro. Alternatively, anti-allergy creams can of course be prescribed.

Replace and clean the silicone tips - that's all you can do

It does not appear to be a simple allergy to the main component of the silicone tips, i.e. silicone - these are considered to be quite rare. Instead, Apple seems to use additives, the acrylates in question. The silicone tips also have a characteristic odor that does not disappear even after months of use. At worst, you will have to return the AirPods Pro or - for ten euros - purchase replacement silicone tips to see if they generate the same problem.

This happens more frequently, so in the opinion of those affected, a series error cannot be ruled out. Nevertheless, the problem has persisted for years. Another remedy is to buy Ear Tips from competing suppliers - and hope that their composition does not cause a contact allergy. There is a whole range of suppliers from Asia on Amazon. Companies such as Comply also offer memory foam as an alternative to Apple's original ear tips, which can sit better in the ear and are made from a different material.

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