Earwax is essential for ear health, but excess can cause discomfort. Learn everything about earwax—from its benefits to managing build-up safely

What is the main cause of earwax?

Most of us are familiar with earwax, and probably never think too much of it. But why do we have earwax in the first place? Well, earwax is a good thing to have in your ears as it’s beneficial for the protection and your ear health. That’s why your body naturally produces it.

Anti-bacterial

Its sticky texture prevents bacteria and germs from moving further into the ear, where they can cause infections.

Maintains pH

Earwax lubricates the skin and helps to maintain the ear’s natural pH balance, which prevents irritation and dryness, as well as preserving overall ear health. Its slightly acidic pH is hostile to bacteria, stopping growth and possible infection.

In-built cleaning service

Eventually, the earwax containing any trapped dirt or bacteria will simply fall out without you noticing, cleaning as it goes.

Keeps out unwelcome guests

Earwax is also a natural insect repellent – so if you’ve ever felt a tickling sensation in your ear, you don’t need to worry about anything creepy or crawly.

Why are we so earwax obsessed? Could it be that the nation's ears are getting waxier?  Find out more in our report: An Ear in Review

Problems caused by earwax

Earwax is produced naturally by glands in the ear canal, and usually the body knows the right level of earwax to produce to protect the ear and not cause any problems. Sometimes though, earwax production might fall out of kilter, and your body might produce more earwax than it needs, or it becomes drier or stickier than normal.

This can happen for a variety of reasons, like excessive headphone use, having narrow ear canals or as a result of certain skin conditions or ear infections.

What are the symptoms of earwax build-up?

An earwax build-up can cause:

  • Itchy ears
  • Discomfort, or earache
  • Tinnitus
  • A change in hearing
  • Infections

For hearing aid wearers it can cause:

  • Damage or a need for frequent cleaning of the hearing aid
  • Discomfort or poor fitting of a hearing aid and its day-to-day wearing
  • Hearing aids to make a whistling noise

What does the colour of your earwax mean?

  • Yellow or Orange: Normal and healthy.
  • Dark Brown or Black: May indicate older wax; not a concern unless accompanied by symptoms.
  • Grey: Could be due to trapped dust or debris.
  • White or Flaky: Often linked to dry skin or eczema.

If you notice unusual colours or symptoms, book an appointment with our hearing experts.

How to remove earwax

Traditionally, medical professionals would use methods such as ear syringing, or candling to remove an earwax build-up. We avoid these methods as they can cause additional complications to your ear health, such as infections, tinnitus, and damage to the eardrum.

Experiencing earwax build-up symptoms?

Do you have symptoms of earwax build-up?

  • Difficulty hearing or a "full ear" sensation?
  • Persistent itching or discomfort?
  • Tinnitus (ringing in ears)?
  • Dizziness, or ear infections?

If yes, you may have excess or impacted earwax build-up, see a hearing expert to get it removed safely.

Debunking Earwax Myths

Common misconceptions about earwax:

Myth: Earwax is dirty and must be removed regularly.

  • Fact: Earwax protects your ears and usually falls out naturally.

Myth: Cotton buds are safe for cleaning ears.

  • Fact: Cotton buds push wax deeper, increasing the risk of blockages and infections.

Myth: Ear candles are an effective removal method.

  • Fact: Ear candles are unsafe and ineffective. Microsuction is the recommended method

Ear candling

Does ear candling work?

Impacted earwax

Causes, symptoms and treatment

Advice on ear cleaning

Tips on how to clean your ears safely