Earwax Removal Home Remedies

Earwax is not a dirty substance, as assumed by many of us. It is actually produced by the ceruminous or wax glands of the ear canal to serve some really important purposes. Firstly, it moistens the inside of the ear canal and thereby prevents the irritation of the skin. Secondly, it has anti-bacterial and antifungal properties and so protects the ear from any kind of infection that can be caused by such agents. This yellow sticky substance also protects the inner parts of the ear by trapping dust, dirt, pollen, etc. Due to its stickiness, it can prevent the entry of such substances deeper into the ear canal. So many experts suggest that earwax or cerumen should not be removed unless ear problems like temporary hearing loss are caused by earwax buildup.

Earwax is mainly of two types, dry cerumen and wet cerumen. Dry cerumen appears as dry, gray colored flakes, while the wet type is moist and dark brown or yellow in color. Removing dry wax can be a bit difficult than the wet type, as it has to be softened before cleaning.

Remedies for Removing Wax

Cotton Swabs
Cotton swabs are perhaps the most common remedies, and therefore immediately comes to one's mind at the very mention of earwax. However, this simple remedy is not at all safe for cleaning the inside of the ear canal. It is more suitable for cleaning the outer portion of the ear. Pushing a cotton swab deep inside the ear canal can be potentially dangerous, as it can push the earwax further deep inside the ear canal. This, in turn can cause blockage of the ear canal and can also puncture the eardrum.

Hydrogen Peroxide
Use of hydrogen peroxide is often claimed by many as the safest home remedy for earwax cleaning. For this you need to apply just 2 to 3 drops of hydrogen peroxide inside the ear canal for 3 consecutive days. Let it remain for about five minutes, and then tilt your head to the other side to let it come out of the ear. Applying hydrogen peroxide dissolves earwax and makes it easier to flush out. After three days, you need to pour some warm water into the ear to flush out earwax. For this, you can use earwax removal tools like bulb syringe, to squirt water inside the ear. Then tilt your head to the other side to drain out the water. After that you can soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and squeeze it to pour a few drops of rubbing alcohol into the ear. Then bend your head to the other side and let it run out of your ear. However, hydrogen peroxide should never be used in a sensitive ear canal. Also make sure that your eardrums are not perforated before applying hydrogen peroxide.

Paraffin and Mineral Oil
Paraffin or mineral oil can also be used for removing excess earwax. Just warm a small amount of paraffin or mineral oil and then lie down and apply a few drops into the ear canal. Warm oil or paraffin will dissolve or soften the wax. Then let the paraffin come out of your ear by bending the head to one side. Repeat the process for a few days to soften the wax, which then can be flushed out by applying some warm water in the same way as has been explained above. You can also rinse the ear with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Applying apple cider vinegar will help to restore the natural pH of ear canal, which is slightly acidic. In place of paraffin and mineral oil, you can also use olive or baby oil by following the same procedure. Many also prefer the use of sea-water spray for daily ear cleaning.

Excessive production of earwax can cause buildup and impacted earwax. This can cause pain, tinnitus (a ringing sensation in the ear) and temporary loss of hearing. So if you experience pain and hearing problem due to build earwax, then it is better to visit a physician before applying remedies. Also, always follow the instructions of your physician regarding proper cleaning and removal of earwax.