Do I Need Earwax Removal?

Earwax! While not the most appetising topic, there's actually a lot worth knowing about it. So, let’s explore what earwax is, why we have it, and when it might be time to have it removed.

What Is Earwax?

Earwax—medically known as cerumen—is a natural, waxy substance found in the ear canals. It’s produced in the outer part of the ear canal by a combination of watery and oily secretions from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands. These secretions mix with dead skin cells that naturally shed from the ear canal, forming what we recognise as earwax.

Some people produce more earwax than others, and it’s not uncommon to notice differences between your left and right ears. Earwax can also vary in consistency—some people have “dry” wax, while others have “wet” wax.

Why Do We Have Earwax?

Although we don’t know exactly why earwax is produced, it’s generally thought to play a protective and self-cleaning role. Earwax helps keep the ear canals clean, moisturised, and free from debris. It can also help prevent bacteria, fungi, and even small insects from entering the ears.

When Does Earwax Need to Be Removed?

In most cases, earwax is healthy and doesn’t need to be removed. It naturally migrates out of the ear canal on its own. However, problems can arise if earwax builds up faster than it can clear itself.

Signs that you may need earwax removal include:

• A feeling of blockage or fullness in the ear

• Temporary hearing loss

• Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds)

• Discomfort or mild pain

• Hearing aids not working properly due to wax build-up

• Needing ear impressions for hearing aids or earplugs, but wax is present

If you’re experiencing any of the above, it’s a good idea to book a professional earwax removal appointment.

How Is Earwax Removed?

There are several safe and effective methods of earwax removal. At Finchley Hearing, we offer microsuction earwax removal, which is the method most commonly recommended by audiologists and other hearing care professionals.

1. Microsuction

Microsuction uses a small, sterile suction tube to gently vacuum wax from the ear canal. The audiologist uses a microscope or magnifying device with a light source to clearly see inside the ear during the procedure. It’s typically quick, effective, and comfortable for most patients.

2. Irrigation (Formerly Known as “Ear Syringing”)

While “ear syringing” used to involve a metal syringe and high water pressure (which could sometimes cause damage), modern ear irrigation is performed using specialised equipment that safely flushes the ear canal with controlled water pressure.

Irrigation may be used by GPs or in NHS settings and is also sometimes used alongside microsuction, especially if the wax is very sticky or positioned close to the eardrum.

3. Manual Extraction

This method uses small tools (like curettes or forceps) to gently scoop or lift wax out of the ear. It’s often used in combination with other techniques when the wax is too hard for suction or too shallow to require irrigation.

4. Eardrops

Eardrops can soften or help break down earwax. Common types include:

• Olive oil drops – soften wax and support its natural movement out of the ear.

• Sodium bicarbonate drops – more effective at breaking down wax, but can be drying or irritating.

• Hydrogen peroxide drops – break down wax but are often too harsh and not generally recommended.

  
  

We typically advise softening your earwax with olive oil drops for several days before your appointment to improve comfort and ensure a more successful removal.

⚠️ Important: Eardrops should not be used if you have a known eardrum perforation, a history of ear surgery, or recurring ear infections. Always seek professional guidance first.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this article has helped to demystify earwax and clarify when it needs attention. In most cases, earwax is completely normal and self-managing. But if it starts to affect your hearing, interfere with your hearing aids, or prevent ear impressions from being taken, it’s probably time for professional earwax removal.

If you're looking for earwax removal in Finchley or North London, we’d be happy to help. At Finchley Hearing, we’re a fully independent audiology clinic offering ethical, evidence-based care. You can learn more on our Earwax Removal service page here, or feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.

If you found this article helpful, please consider sharing it via the social media icons below. You can also subscribe to our blog using the form at the bottom of this page to receive updates whenever we publish a new post.