Should You Wear Ear Plugs at Concerts?

Attending a live concert is an unforgettable experience—feeling the energy of the crowd, the pulse of the music, and the thrill of a favorite song played live. But with those powerful speakers and amplifiers comes an important question: Should you wear ear plugs at concerts? The short answer is yes—if you want to protect your hearing while still enjoying the music.

How Loud is Too Loud?

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when the ears are exposed to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) for an extended period. Everyday noises that reach this threshold include:

• Heavy traffic or a noisy restaurant – Around 85 dB
• A barking dog – About 90 dB
• Motorcycles or power tools – Around 95–100 dB

Concerts, however, often exceed 120 dB, sometimes reaching as high as 130 dB—equivalent to a jet engine at close range. At these levels, just a few minutes of exposure can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage. Your proximity to the speakers makes a big difference, but even in the middle of a venue, the sound levels can be dangerously high.

The Science Behind Ear Plug Use at Concerts

A study conducted in Amsterdam found that:

• 42% of attendees without ear plugs experienced hearing loss
• 40% of those without protection developed tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Only 8% of ear plug users reported hearing loss
• Just 12% of ear plug users experienced tinnitus

This and other studies confirm that wearing ear plugs significantly reduces the risk of hearing damage.

Pros and Cons of Wearing Ear Plugs at Concerts

Benefits:

• Protects against hearing loss and tinnitus
• Preserves hearing for future concerts
• Reduces overall discomfort from excessive noise

Drawbacks:

• Standard ear plugs may slightly muffle sound quality
• Can be uncomfortable if inserted incorrectly

The key is choosing the right ear plugs for concerts.

Best Types of Ear Plugs for Concerts

Not all ear plugs are created equal. Here are three main types:

1. Standard Foam Ear Plugs
   • Available at most drugstores
   • Affordable and effective at blocking loud noise
   • Can muffle sound clarity
2. Pre-Molded Ear Plugs
   • Made from plastic or silicone
   • Often include sound filters for better clarity
   • More comfortable than foam options
3. Custom Musician’s Ear Plugs
   • Designed for concertgoers and musicians
   • Lowers volume without distorting sound quality
   • Custom-fitted by an Audiologist for maximum comfort and protection

What to Do If You Experience Hearing Loss After a Concert

If you leave a concert with ringing ears, muffled hearing, or discomfort, it could be a sign of temporary or permanent hearing damage. If these symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, it’s time to consult a specialist.

At BASS Medical Group, our team of Otolaryngologists (Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors) and Audiologists provide expert evaluations and treatment for:

• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Ear infections and pain
• Custom ear plug fittings for concertgoers

Protect Your Hearing Without Missing the Music

Concerts are meant to be enjoyed—but not at the cost of your hearing. Wearing the right ear protection can enhance your concert experience while keeping your ears safe. If you’re experiencing hearing issues or want to invest in custom-fitted musician’s ear plugs, contact BASS Medical Group today.

Preserve your hearing for years to come—schedule an appointment with our ENT specialists or Audiologists today!