It's great that you're concerned about protecting your hearing at a young age. Noise-induced hearing loss can occur when you're exposed to loud sounds over an extended period. While I can provide general information, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or audiologist for personalized advice.
The recommended safe exposure limit to prevent hearing damage is generally considered to be around 85 decibels (dB) for an 8-hour period. However, the risk of damage increases as the sound level increases or the duration of exposure extends.
It's worth noting that the volume level you perceive through your headphones may not accurately reflect the actual sound level. Different headphones have varying levels of sound isolation, which can affect how loud the sound appears to be. Additionally, the distance between the sound source and your ears can impact the perceived volume.
If you find that 50 dB already sounds loud to you, it's advisable to lower the volume to a comfortable level. Avoid prolonged exposure to loud sounds, and take breaks from using headphones to give your ears some rest. It's also recommended to use headphones that have noise-cancellation or noise-isolating features, as this can help reduce the need to increase the volume to block out external noise.
As a general guideline, the 60-70 dB range is considered relatively safe for most individuals, but it's still important to exercise caution and prioritize protecting your hearing. If you're concerned about the volume levels you're experiencing with your AirPods, consider using the volume limit settings available on your device to help control the maximum volume output.
Remember, it's always a good idea to discuss your specific concerns and habits with a healthcare professional or audiologist, who can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.