Hearing Aids & Beauty Products: Maintain Device Performance

If you love experimenting with beauty products, you might be wondering how to keep your hearing aids in perfect working condition while still enjoying your daily skincare and makeup routine. While hearing aids can be sensitive to moisture, oils, and certain chemicals, you don’t have to sacrifice your beauty regimen to maintain their performance. Here’s a guide to help you safely incorporate beauty products into your routine without compromising the functionality of your hearing aids.

1. Be Mindful of Moisture: Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
2. Avoid Oily Products: Protect Your Hearing Aids from Residue
3. Use Non-Acidic Products for Sensitive Hearing Aid Parts
4. Don’t Forget to Remove Hearing Aids Before Applying Makeup
5. Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly
6. Storage and Care Tips for Protecting Your Devices
7. In Summary: Beauty and Hearing Aids—Keep Both Safe

1. Be Mindful of Moisture: Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
   Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of hearing aids. Beauty products such as facial mists, moisturizers, or hydrating sprays can leave moisture on your hearing aids, which may lead to malfunctions. Always make sure to apply beauty products such as creams and sprays well away from your hearing aids. If you do use these products near your face, make sure your hearing aids are removed or well-protected to avoid any accidental exposure to moisture.
2. Avoid Oily Products: Protect Your Hearing Aids from Residue
   Beauty products like lotions, foundations, and oils can leave a greasy residue on your hearing aids, causing them to become clogged or reducing their effectiveness. Be especially cautious with any oil-based products, which can quickly transfer to your hearing aid, impacting both the performance and the sound quality. Try to use oil-free alternatives when possible, and be sure to apply makeup and creams carefully around your ears to minimize exposure.
3. Use Non-Acidic Products for Sensitive Hearing Aid Parts
   Some beauty products contain acids—like glycolic acid or salicylic acid—that may harm the delicate parts of your hearing aids, particularly the microphone and speaker. To protect your devices, look for skincare or beauty products that are gentle and non-acidic. If you need to apply such products on your face, remove your hearing aids beforehand to ensure they aren’t affected by harsh chemicals.
4. Don’t Forget to Remove Hearing Aids Before Applying Makeup
   It’s tempting to quickly apply makeup while your hearing aids are still in place, but this can lead to product buildup on your devices. Foundation, blush, and mascara can transfer onto the hearing aids, which may lead to clogged microphones or reduced sound clarity. To prevent this, always remove your hearing aids before applying makeup. Store them safely in a case to protect them from product damage.
5. Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly
   Cleaning your hearing aids regularly is essential, especially when you use beauty products. After applying makeup or skincare products, wipe down your hearing aids with a dry, soft cloth. You can also use a hearing aid cleaning brush or other manufacturer-recommended tools to remove any excess residue or buildup. Keeping your hearing aids clean will ensure optimal performance and prevent any long-term damage.
6. Storage and Care Tips for Protecting Your Devices
   When not in use, always store your hearing aids in a clean, dry case to keep them safe from accidental exposure to beauty products or moisture. Avoid leaving them on a bathroom counter or in areas where they might come into contact with sprays or creams. A protective case ensures that your devices stay dry and free from harmful chemicals.
7. In Summary: Beauty and Hearing Aids—Keep Both Safe
   Enjoying your beauty routine while wearing hearing aids doesn’t have to be a challenge. By being mindful of moisture, oils, and harsh chemicals, and taking a few extra steps to protect your devices, you can keep your hearing aids in top condition while still looking your best. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and careful application of beauty products will ensure both your hearing aids and your beauty regimen stay on track.

Disclaimer: This article provides general advice on maintaining the performance of your hearing aids while using beauty products. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific hearing aids and consult with an audiologist for personalized care recommendations.

References:

1. American Academy of Audiology. “Hearing Aid Care and Maintenance.”
2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). “Hearing Aids.”
3. Hearing Life. “Hearing Aid Care: How to Keep Your Device in Tip-Top Shape.”