Tinnitus Masker

A tinnitus masker is a device or feature that introduces an external sound to reduce the perception of or distraction from tinnitus. When the brain is provided with a steady, neutral sound signal, tinnitus often becomes less noticeable as the auditory system adapts to the presence of the external sound. The tinnitus does not disappear, but the contrast between it and the sound environment is reduced, making it less intrusive.

Tinnitus maskers can be standalone wearable devices that resemble hearing aids, or they can be a programmable feature built into hearing aids. Sound options typically include white noise, pink noise, broadband noise, or nature-based sounds. The sound level is set below the level of the tinnitus so the tinnitus is reduced rather than completely covered, which supports the goal of habituating to the tinnitus over time.

Tinnitus masking is often used as one part of a broader management plan, such as tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT), which combines sound therapy with structured counseling.