What is the Purpose of Ear Wax?

Ear wax, or cerumen as it's medically known, is typically a sticky liquid, but its appearance can vary by person. The wax can be liquid, solid or flaky, but regardless of its appearance, its mission is the same: to shield the ear canal. While treatments such as candling, which removes ear wax and impurities from the ear canal, have increased in popularity, doctors warn that the benefits of ear wax far outweigh its odd appearance.

Identification

Ear wax is created by skin glands in the outer ear canal. It can consist of water, skin cells and bacteria, in addition to the secretions from the glands.

Benefits

Ear wax offers a layer of protection for your ears. It blocks dust, dirt and even bugs from traveling deep into the ear canal, and it keeps the skin of the ear canal properly moisturized, preventing dry and itchy ears. Material in the wax also helps to ward off ear infections.

Caring for Ears

Most ear wax falls out of the ear naturally, either on its own or when you wash your body. Doctors warn patients not to use cotton swabs or other objects to remove the wax. That process only succeeds in pushing the wax deeper into the ear canal, creating a blockage.

Blockages

Some people's ears create extra wax, creating a buildup that can lead to temporary hearing loss. In such cases, doctors will flush the ear canal with water to remove the buildup. The ability to hear is instantly restored.

Hard Wax

While the composition of ear wax can vary, some people's ears can create solid wax, or hard wax. Hard wax can cause pain by pressing against the walls of the ear canal. Doctors can either try to flush it out or prescribe ear drops or other medication that will soften the wax.