FAQs

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It serves several important functions:
Protection: Earwax helps protect the ear canal from dust, foreign particles, and microorganisms.
Lubrication: It keeps the ear canal moisturized, preventing dryness and itching.

Cleaning: Earwax traps dirt and moves it out of the ear canal as it naturally migrates outward.
While earwax is beneficial, excessive buildup can sometimes lead to discomfort or hearing issues. If you experience problems, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional rather than trying to remove it yourself.

Earwax buildup can occur for several reasons:

1. Natural Overproduction: Some people naturally produce more earwax than others.
2. Ear Canal Shape: Narrow or misshapen ear canals can make it difficult for earwax to move out naturally.
3. Use of Ear Devices: Frequent use of hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds can push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
4. Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema can lead to increased earwax production.
5. Aging: As people age, earwax tends to become drier and harder, making it more likely to build up.
6. Improper Cleaning: Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears can push earwax further in, causing impaction.

Symptoms of earwax buildup can vary, but common signs include:

1. Earache: Pain or discomfort in the ear.
2. Fullness in the Ear: A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear.
3. Hearing Loss: Reduced hearing, which may worsen over time.
4. Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing noises in the ear.
5. Itchiness: Itching in the ear canal.
6. Discharge or Odor: Unusual discharge or a foul smell from the ear.
7. Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or off-balance


Ear microsuction is a technique used to remove earwax. Here’s how it works:

1. Procedure: Using a long, thin nozzle connected to a suction device to gently remove earwax from the ear canal. The process is often guided by a microscope or an endoscope to ensure precision.
2. Benefits:
   a) No Water: Unlike ear syringing, microsuction doesn’t use water, making it less messy.
   b) Safety: It’s considered safe for people with perforated ear drums or ear infections.
   c) Effectiveness: The direct visualization of the ear canal allows for a thorough and efficient removal.
3. Experience: During the procedure, you might feel a slight suction and hear some noises, but it is generally quick and comfortable.

Ear irrigation is a method used to remove earwax and other debris from the ear canal.
Procedure: This process uses water at body temperature to remove unwanted earwax. The water is gently squirted into the ear canal to flush out the earwax. The person undergoing the procedure usually tilts their head to allow the liquid to flow out, carrying the earwax with it.

The NHS has withdrawn earwax removal as a core service, and it’s no longer a service that Clinical Commissioning Groups will pay for, leading to many GP surgeries no longer offering it.

Earwax removal can involve several methods, depending on the severity of the build up and individual preferences. Here are some common techniques:

1.  Home Remedies:
   a) Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil can soften earwax. You lie on your side, add a few drops to the affected ear, and wait for about 15 minutes.
2. Professional Methods:
   a) Ear Microsuction: Uses a suction device to remove earwax while viewing the ear canal through a microscope or endoscope.
   b) Ear Irrigation: This involves using water to flush out the earwax. It’s generally safe but not recommended for people with certain ear conditions.

Earwax removal can be straight forward, but it’s important to choose the right method and seek professional help if needed.

You would attend an initial consultation approx. 15 mins. This would determine whether you require earwax removal, this can take approx…30 mins.

Generally every 6 months, this would depend on the individual.

Yes, preparing your ear for earwax removal is generally recommended to make the procedure more comfortable and effective. Softening the wax with Earol olive drop/spray in each ear 2-3 times daily for 5 days before your appointment, this can significantly aid the removal process.

At Ear Ear Wax Removal, we only remove earwax from 18 years plus.