Earwax Removal: Choose Your Weapons Wisely

Earwax Explained: Safe Cleaning, Q-Tips, Ear Candles, and When to See a Doctor Dr. Neu explains what earwax is, why it’s normal and protective, and how the ear’s natural self-cleaning process moves wax outward with talking and chewing. He reviews why some people develop buildup, including narrow or twisty canals, increased or drier wax with age, prolonged earbud/earplug use, cotton swabs pushing wax deeper, and skin conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis. For safe at-home care, he recommends flushing with warm water several times per week, using bulb or irrigation kits if painless, and adding OTC softening drops (5–10 drops) for hard wax, sometimes for days or weekly prevention. He warns against ear candles and cautions about camera removal tools. He outlines clinic options (irrigation, manual removal, suction) and notes complications like hearing loss and otitis externa, advising urgent care for severe pain, swelling, discharge, or fever. 00:00 Earwax Myths Intro 00:33 Quick Ear Anatomy Tour 01:41 Why Earwax Exists 02:38 Why Wax Builds Up 04:12 Safe At Home Cleaning 06:08 What Not To Do 07:10 When To See A Pro 08:09 Complications And Wrap Up