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What is Earwax?

earwax
HEALTH ADVICE · 1 minute read
Rahul Puri
Written by Rahul PuriSuperintendent Pharmacist, MPharm, PgDip, PgCert IP
Medically reviewed 18 February 2025
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Understanding Earwax and Its Importance

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance crucial to ear health. While you may not think about it daily, earwax is a protective barrier, trapping dust, bacteria, and other debris to prevent infections. However, when earwax builds up excessively, it can cause blockages, discomfort, and temporary hearing loss.

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This post has been verified by a clinical specialist.

Verified by Rahul Puri on 4 February 2025

Different Types of Ear Wax

Woman reading hearing-health information
Note when symptoms started and how hearing has changed.

Earwax varies in appearance. Colour or texture alone cannot determine whether you need removal or diagnose an infection. Explain symptoms and any changes to the clinician.

What Does Ear Wax Do?

Earwax plays several vital roles in maintaining ear health:

  • Acts as a natural defence – Protects against dust, bacteria, and debris.
  • Prevents infections – Contains antimicrobial properties.
  • Moisturizes the ear canal – Prevents dryness and irritation.
  • Aids in self-cleaning – Jaw movements (chewing, talking) help remove excess wax naturally.

What is Earwax Made Of?

Earwax is a unique combination of:

  • Fatty acids and oils – Moisturizes and protects the ear canal.
  • Keratin and dead skin cells help trap dust and debris.
  • Antimicrobial properties – Prevents infections by keeping bacteria at bay

When Should You Get Your Ear Wax Cleaned?

For gradual blocked-ear symptoms, an examination can establish whether wax is present and whether removal is appropriate. Persistent symptoms after treatment need review rather than assuming repeated removal is the answer.

How to Manage Earwax Buildup at Home

Do not insert cotton buds or tools. Ask whether softening drops are suitable for your ear history; do not use drops with a perforated eardrum. Follow the NHS earwax guidance and product instructions.

Illustration of a pharmacist speaking with a patient
An assessment should establish the next step before removal is agreed.
Rahul Puri, pharmacist

Ask Rahul

Rahul Puri | Pharmacist

Ear health: understanding wax and choosing the next step

Does normal earwax need routine removal?

Not automatically. Ask whether the examination and symptoms show a reason for treatment. Agree what to watch for and whether follow-up is needed for your own ear history.

Arrange a routine ear-health assessment

For non-urgent concerns, review the service and appointment options. Assessment comes before deciding whether wax removal is suitable.

View ear-health appointments

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