Understanding Earwax: Why You Should Stop Using Cotton Swabs

Let’s be honest—earwax doesn’t have the best reputation. People often associate it with poor hygiene or feel the urge to clean it out as soon as they see it. But here’s the truth: earwax is completely natural and plays a crucial role in keeping your ears healthy.

What Is Earwax, Exactly?

Earwax, or cerumen, is produced by glands in your ear canal. It’s a mixture of:

• Secretions from sweat and oil glands in the ear canal
• Dead skin cells
• Tiny hairs
• Particles like dust or debris from the environment

Despite its reputation, earwax isn’t “dirty.” It’s a sign of normal, healthy ear function.

Why Do We Have Earwax?

Earwax serves multiple protective functions:

• Moisturizes the ear canal, preventing dryness and irritation.
• Traps dirt and dust before it reaches deeper into the canal.
• Absorbs dead skin cells and debris, cleaning the ear naturally.
• Acts as a barrier to bacteria, fungi, and insects.
• Migrates outward naturally via jaw movement, carrying debris with it.

Some People Have More Earwax Than Others

• Genetics: Determines if your earwax is “wet” or “dry.”
• Age: Earwax becomes harder and drier as we age.
• Environment: Dusty surroundings can increase wax production.
• Diet and Health: May influence cerumen production.

Wearing Headsets or Hearing Aids Can Increase Earwax Buildup

Devices like earphones, earbuds, or hearing aids can:

• Block the natural outward flow of earwax.
• Cause irritation or trap heat and moisture.
• Compress earwax deeper into the canal.

It’s Unnecessary to Clean It Out

Earwax is self-cleaning. Daily cleaning with cotton swabs or other objects can disrupt this natural process and cause problems.

It May Be Harmful to Use Cotton Swabs

• Push earwax deeper, causing blockages.
• Injure the ear canal or puncture the eardrum.
• Cause pain, pressure, or temporary hearing loss.
• Lead to infections if wax gets trapped.

“Do not insert swab into ear canal. Entering the ear canal could cause injury.”

Earwax Is Not a Sign of Poor Hygiene

Earwax is natural and protective, indicating your ears are functioning properly.

What to Do About "Cerumenosis"

If earwax builds up and causes symptoms—fullness, earache, ringing, or hearing loss—here’s what to do:

• Try ear drops: Softening drops can break down wax, followed by a gentle rinse.
• See a healthcare professional: Safe removal using specialized tools or suction.

Do not: use cotton swabs, hairpins, pen caps, or any makeshift tool.

In Conclusion

Earwax is an essential part of your body’s defense system. Most of the time, it doesn’t need to be removed. Cotton swabs are not the solution. Trust your body, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.