Should You Clean Your Ears Regularly? Expert Insights on Ear Wax

Should you clean your ears?

Is it necessary to regularly clean my ears, even though I usually don't and sometimes earwax falls out on its own? I noticed that when someone else checked my ears, there seemed to be a lot of wax, some of which was hard and difficult to remove.
What should I do about that? Thank you.

Xiao Dou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/16

Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology

Dear Inquirer,
Both soft and hard earwax are expelled naturally through the metabolism of the skin in the ear canal.
However, if there are abnormalities in the shape of the external auditory canal or if there is inflammation, earwax may not be easily expelled.
The most common cause of earwax impaction is chronic external otitis caused by improper ear cleaning, which leads to obstruction in the pathway for earwax expulsion.
It is recommended that you refrain from cleaning your ears, as earwax will naturally exit on its own, so there is no need for concern.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Jian-Zhi Chen
Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health
Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University

Reply Date: 2010/05/16

More Info

When it comes to ear hygiene, the question of whether or not to clean your ears regularly is a common concern. Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal. It has antibacterial properties and helps to trap dust and debris, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Therefore, it is important to understand that earwax serves a purpose, and in most cases, the ear is self-cleaning.

Generally, it is not necessary to clean your ears on a regular basis. The ear canal has a natural mechanism for expelling earwax. As you move your jaw—when you talk, chew, or yawn—the earwax is gradually pushed out of the ear canal. This means that for most people, earwax will naturally migrate to the outer ear, where it can be easily wiped away with a cloth during regular bathing.

However, there are exceptions. Some individuals may produce excessive earwax, which can lead to blockages. This is particularly common in people who use hearing aids or earplugs, as these devices can prevent earwax from naturally exiting the ear canal. If you find that earwax is accumulating and hardening, it may be a sign that you need to consult a healthcare professional. They can safely remove the earwax using specialized tools or methods, such as irrigation or suction.

Using cotton swabs (Q-tips) to clean your ears is not recommended. While it may seem like a convenient solution, cotton swabs can push earwax further into the ear canal, potentially leading to impaction. Additionally, there is a risk of injuring the delicate structures of the ear, including the eardrum, which can result in pain, infection, or even hearing loss.

If you notice symptoms such as hearing loss, earache, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess your ear health and determine if there is a need for cleaning or treatment. They may also provide guidance on how to manage earwax at home, such as using over-the-counter ear drops designed to soften earwax.

In summary, regular cleaning of the ears is not necessary for most individuals. The ear has its own self-cleaning mechanism, and earwax serves an important protective function. If you experience issues with earwax buildup, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for safe removal and advice tailored to your specific situation. Remember, when it comes to ear health, less is often more, and it's important to avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.

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