Earwax is one of those things most of us don’t think about until it becomes an issue. Scientifically known as cerumen, earwax serves an essential role in protecting our ears. While we often view it as something that needs to be cleaned out, earwax acts as a natural barrier against dust, bacteria, and other particles. It’s produced by glands in the outer ear canal, and, believe it or not, our body has a natural mechanism to push out the old wax.
Despite this, many of us still feel the urge to clean our ears, and doing it incorrectly can lead to more harm than good. This complete guide covers all you need to know about earwax, safe ways to clean your ears, and when it’s best to consult a professional. Whether you’re someone who’s prone to wax buildup or simply interested in ear health, you’ll find everything you need to maintain your ear health safely.
Earwax is made up of secretions from glands within the ear canal, combined with dead skin cells and tiny particles that find their way into the ear. Its job isn’t just to sit there; earwax actively traps dirt, dust, and other unwanted particles, preventing them from reaching sensitive areas of the ear. In addition to acting as a shield, earwax also keeps the ear canal lubricated, which helps reduce dryness and potential irritation. Interestingly, our bodies have a natural process to push old earwax out of the ear canal, especially during jaw movements like chewing or talking. For most people, this means there’s no need to manually remove earwax.
Sometimes, however, earwax can accumulate beyond the natural amount. This can occur due to the unique shape of an individual’s ear canal, regular use of earplugs or hearing aids, or excess earwax production by the ear canal’s glands. Signs of earwax buildup commonly include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it might be a good idea to explore safe ear cleaning options or consult a professional.
It’s easy to make mistakes when trying to clean our ears, especially with so much conflicting advice available. To help, here are some safe and effective methods you can try at home:
Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective tool for ear cleaning if used correctly. A safe concentration for this purpose is 3%, which can be diluted with an equal amount of water. Apply a few drops into the ear while your head is tilted. Let it sit for a minute to break up wax buildup before tilting your head the other way to drain. Be sure not to use it too often, as it can cause dryness if overused.
Common household oils like mineral oil and olive oil can also be effective in softening earwax. To use, at room temperature then apply a few drops to the ear canal using a dropper. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then tilt your head to let it drain. You may also gently wipe the outer ear with a clean, soft cloth.
Each of these methods is safe when done carefully, but remember: these approaches are only meant to help the natural process along. Avoid overusing any one method, and stop immediately if you feel discomfort.
In the quest to keep our ears clean, many of us inadvertently use methods that can lead to more problems. Here are some practices to steer clear of:
If you’ve tried safe home methods and still experience symptoms, or if you have a history of ear infections, it’s time to seek professional assistance. Here at Mackay Ears, we offer professional ear cleaning services that ensure your ear health without the risks of DIY methods. Kim Van De Wetering, our experienced nurse, can assess your ear health and use specialized tools to remove excess wax effectively.
While everyone’s experience with earwax buildup differs, there are a few key indicators that professional help may be necessary:
Our professional cleaning services can help you maintain ear health safely, particularly if you frequently use earbuds, hearing aids, or other devices that might contribute to wax buildup.
Ear health is essential, and earwax plays a crucial role in maintaining it. By using safe cleaning methods and avoiding harmful practices, you can support your ears’ natural cleaning process without causing damage. If you experience any ongoing symptoms or discomfort, consider booking an appointment with Mackay Ears. Our goal is to support your ear health with dependable, professional care you can trust.
Usually, frequent ear cleaning isn’t necessary. Earwax naturally moves to the outer ear, taking care of itself in most cases. If you notice visible wax or experience symptoms, consider professional care or the safe home methods mentioned above.
Earbuds can contribute to wax buildup, as they prevent the ear from airing out naturally. If you use earbuds daily, regular ear checks can help ensure you’re not accumulating too much wax.
Yes, excessive earwax can impact your hearing by blocking sound waves. If you notice muffled or reduced hearing, it may be due to an impaction.
Children’s ears are sensitive, and it’s best to avoid cleaning them unless a healthcare professional advises it. If there is a noticeable buildup, consult a healthcare provider for advice on safe removal.
To safely clean inside your ears, Tilt your head so your ear faces up, and squeeze a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear. Let gravity do the work for about a minute, allowing the solution to soften and drain the wax naturally. This method is gentle and avoids pushing anything further inside.
Use few drops of olive oil to soften wax. If wax is impacted it may not discharge from ear canal. Please call Mackay Ears for assistance.
To clean your ears safely, just dampen a washcloth with warm water and gently wipe around the outer part of your ear. Avoid putting the cloth or anything else inside the ear canal, as this can cause irritation or even push wax further in. This keeps your ears clean without risking injury.
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