06/12/2025
👂 Earwax Myths vs. Truths
Myth 1: Earwax is dirty and should be removed often.
Truth: Earwax is not dirt, it’s your body’s natural cleaning and protective system.
It traps dust, bacteria, and debris and slowly moves outward on its own.
Myth 2: You should clean your ears with cotton swabs.
Truth: Cotton swabs push wax deeper, increase the risk of blockages, and can even injure the eardrum.
Doctors strongly advise against putting anything “smaller than your elbow” in your ear canal.
Myth 3: Earwax buildup means poor hygiene.
Truth: Earwax production varies widely between individuals.
Excess buildup can be due to genetics, narrow ear canals, skin conditions, hearing aids, or earbuds, not poor hygiene.
Myth 4: All earwax is the same.
Truth: There are two genetically determined types:
Wet (yellow/brown) — common in people of African or European ancestry
Dry (gray/flaky) — more common in East Asian and Native American populations
Both are normal and healthy.
Myth 5: Ear candles work to remove earwax.
Truth: Ear candles are ineffective and dangerous.
They don’t remove wax, studies show the residue comes from the candle itself.
They also pose burn and ear injury risks.
Myth 6: Earwax should be removed if you see any of it.
Truth: Seeing a little wax at the opening of the ear is normal.
Wax only needs to be removed when it causes symptoms like:
-Hearing loss
-Fullness or pressure
-Ringing
-Dizziness
-Pain
Myth 7: More earwax means you’re making too much.
Truth: Often, the issue isn’t overproduction, it's that the wax isn't draining out efficiently, especially in:
People who frequently use earbuds
Older adults (wax becomes harder and drier)
People with lots of ear hair
Myth 8: Olive oil drops can dissolve earwax.
Truth: Olive oil softens wax but doesn’t dissolve it.
It can help cerumen move out more easily but is not a cure-all.
✔️ Safe Ways to Treat Earwax Buildup
Avoid:
Cotton swabs
Ear candles
Inserting any objects into the ear canal
Use over-the-counter ear drops (waxol or olive oil)
See a clinician for microsuction at:
Website: https://www.canberraearclinic.com.au/
Phone: 0450 611 356
