The Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston
Department of Otorhinolaryngology

Ear wax


Ear wax (also known as cerumen) can be a sticky problem. Each of us makes a different amount and consistency based on our skin type and its oiliness. It serves an important function, however, as it traps airborne contaminants and stops bacteria from growing in the ear canal. Normally, earwax will move out of the ear canal as the skin sheds and wait at the ear canal opening to be gently wiped away with a tissue or washcloth. Some people, though, have very sticky wax or narrow ear canals, and the wax can become trapped. The resultant blockage can even cause noticeable hearing loss. If that happens, see a provider who can help you remove the wax. Never insert anything into the ear canal — you can cause damage to your hearing and increase your risk of an outer ear infection. If you are very concerned, see your provider sooner rather than later.

You can have too much ear wax if it builds up in your ear canal and interferes with your ability to hear. Typically, ear wax is cleared from the ear canal naturally. This mechanism may break down by the use of q-tips or any instrumentation in the ear canal. The use of mineral oil or baby oil weekly may keep the wax soft, allowing it to be cleared normally.