Earwax, or cerumen, might seem like an unpleasant detail of human biology—but it actually plays an important role in keeping our ears healthy.
How Earwax Forms
Earwax is produced by tiny glands in the outer ear canal that secrete oils, wax, and sweat. These secretions mix with dead skin cells and small hairs to form earwax. While it may look dirty, it acts as a natural cleaner and protector—trapping dust, bacteria, and other debris before they can reach deeper parts of the ear.
As the skin inside the ear slowly grows outward, the wax moves along with it, carrying old cells and particles toward the ear opening, where it eventually flakes off or is washed away. This self-cleaning process usually keeps the ears clear without any help.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Sometimes, earwax doesn’t make its way out naturally and builds up instead. When this happens, it can partially or completely block the ear canal and cause symptoms such as:
· Muffled hearing or a feeling that the ear is “clogged”
· Itching or irritation inside the ear
· Earache or pressure
· Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Older adults and hearing aid users are especially prone to buildup. As we age, earwax tends to become drier and harder, making it less likely to move out on its own. Hearing aids can also block the ear’s natural cleaning pathway, pushing wax deeper into the canal.
What Causes Earwax Buildup
Several factors can lead to excessive earwax:
· Over-cleaning: Using cotton swabs or other objects pushes wax deeper instead of removing it.
· Ear anatomy: Narrow or twisty ear canals make it harder for wax to exit naturally.
· Age-related changes: Thicker or drier earwax is more likely to build up.
When to Get Help
If you notice symptoms like hearing loss, fullness, or ear pain, avoid trying to clean your ears yourself. Using Q-tips or sharp tools can injure the ear canal or eardrum. Instead, see a hearing care professional or audiologist for safe removal. For more details on safe earwax management, read “How to Clean Your Ears Safely — Without Harming Your Hearing”
