The Ear Wax: Everything You Need to Know
What is Ear Wax?
Ear wax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It’s a mix of secretions from sebaceous and ceruminous glands, mixed with shed skin cells.
This waxy material isn’t dirt or waste—it's a protective agent.
Ear wax traps dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles, stopping them from reaching the eardrum.
It also lubricates the ear canal, preventing dryness and itching. In most people, old wax naturally moves out of the ear with jaw movements like chewing and talking.
Types of Ear Wax
There are two main types of ear wax: wet and dry. Wet wax is sticky and yellow-brown, while dry wax is lighter and crumbly. Genetics determines which type you have. People of East Asian descent typically produce dry ear wax, while those of African and European descent often have wet wax.
The colour and texture of wax can also vary based on age, diet, and environment. Darker wax may simply be older, and softer wax can indicate recent production. None of these variations automatically signal a problem.
Explore ear wax types in more detail ➝
When Ear Wax Becomes a Problem
Ear wax only becomes an issue when it builds up and blocks the ear canal. This condition, known as impaction, can lead to symptoms such as muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or even earache.
Some people are more prone to build-up, including those with narrow or hairy ear canals, skin conditions like eczema, or frequent earbud use. Hearing aid users also tend to accumulate more wax, as the device can prevent natural wax migration.
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Safe vs Unsafe Removal Methods
Cotton buds are widely used but do more harm than good. Instead of removing wax, they often push it deeper, increasing the risk of impaction. Similarly, ear candles are not only ineffective but also dangerous, with risks of burns and blocked ear canals from wax drips.
Over-the-counter ear drops can soften wax but aren’t always effective for severe build-up. Drops should be used cautiously and not for more than a few days. If symptoms persist, professional removal is safer and more effective.
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Professional Ear Wax Removal
Three main clinical methods are used: irrigation, manual removal, and microsuction.
Microsuction is widely regarded as the safest and most comfortable. A fine suction device is used under direct visual guidance, allowing precision without touching the ear canal walls. This method avoids water, which is useful for those prone to infections or with perforated eardrums.
Appointments are quick, often under 30 minutes, and most patients experience immediate relief.
Children and Ear Wax
Children produce ear wax just like adults, and it’s equally protective. Parents should avoid cleaning with cotton buds or inserting anything into a child’s ear. Most of the time, wax doesn't need removal unless it's visibly blocking the canal or causing discomfort.
Signs of problematic wax in kids include hearing difficulty, ear pulling, or complaints of a blocked feeling. In such cases, a professional assessment is recommended.
Ear Wax and Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can interfere with the ear’s natural cleaning process. They may also stimulate wax production and block its normal migration.
Users should regularly check their devices for wax build-up and schedule periodic ear examinations. Proper cleaning of both the ears and the devices helps maintain hearing quality and prolong device lifespan.
Guide to hearing aids and ear wax ➝
Myths About Ear Wax
Many believe that ears should be wax-free. This isn’t true. A certain amount of wax is healthy and necessary. Wax colour isn’t a reliable indicator of cleanliness or infection—dark wax isn’t dirty, and light wax isn’t always healthy.
Another myth is that frequent cleaning is good. The ear is self-cleaning, and constant interference can lead to irritation or damage. Leaving the ear alone is often the best strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should ears be cleaned?
Rarely. For most people, ear wax exits naturally. Professional cleaning is only needed when there's a build-up causing symptoms.
Can ear wax cause vertigo?
Yes, in some cases. A large wax blockage can press against sensitive parts of the ear, leading to imbalance or dizziness.
Does diet affect wax production?
There’s limited evidence, but hydration and overall skin health may influence wax consistency.
Can I prevent ear wax build-up?
Not entirely, especially if you're genetically predisposed. But avoiding earbuds, cotton buds, and keeping ears dry can reduce the risk.
Related Conditions
Impacted ear wax can sometimes mimic symptoms of ear infections or swimmer’s ear. An accurate diagnosis requires examining the ear canal. Pain and discharge typically indicate infection rather than wax.
If symptoms don’t improve after cleaning, a follow-up with a specialist is needed to rule out other causes.
Compare ear wax impaction and infections ➝
Book Safe Ear Wax Removal
Professional ear wax removal is quick, safe, and effective. Book a microsuction appointment at EarWaxSolution to protect your hearing and comfort.