What is ear wax?

Ear wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the outer ear canal and has several important functions. It:

• Protects the ear canal by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms
• Lubricates the skin of the ear canal, preventing dryness and itchiness
• Acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to prevent infections.

Ear wax slowly works its way out of the ear, trapping dust, dry skin flakes and dirt as it goes, which helps to keep your ears clean. Moving your jaw (through eating or talking) helps the wax move along your ear canal.

It’s important to remember that having ear wax isn’t a sign of poor hygiene – it’s a natural lubricant and cleaner, and healthy ears are supposed to produce ear wax.

So what characterises healthy ear wax?

Characteristics of healthy ear wax

The colour of healthy ear wax can vary between yellow, orange, or light brown. Darker wax is also normal, especially in older adults, or slightly older ear wax (that has collected more debris from inside your ear).

Wax can be soft and sticky, or dry and flaky; whichever type you have is genetically determined and both are considered normal.

Ear wax should be odourless – if it has a smell, this could be a sign of infection and you should see a healthcare professional.

Should I clean my ears manually?

You shouldn’t put anything inside your ears. Cotton buds can push ear wax further into your ear canal, become impacted and block your ear.

And although they may look soft, cotton buds are made of fibres that can scratch the delicate skin inside your ear canal.

If you do have too much ear wax, you can use medical-grade olive oil spray or drops, like Earol®. This can help soften stubborn wax, either helping it work its own way out of your ears, or making it easier for a qualified professional to remove it.

When should I get my ear wax professionally removed?

You shouldn’t notice the sensation of having wax in your ear. If you have discomfort in your ear, or a feeling of ‘fullness’, you should see a healthcare professional – they’ll be able to tell you if you’re suffering from excess ear wax build-up.

Left untreated, ear wax build-up can lead to pain in your ears, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and can even affect your hearing.

Ear wax removal at Hidden Hearing

All our highly trained practitioners use the latest micro-suction technology, which means your ear wax removal will be quick and effective. If you’re suffering from excess ear wax build-up, click here to book your appointment today.