Earwax is a natural substance produced within the ear canal. It plays an important role in ear health by lubricating the ear, trapping dust and debris, and offering protection against bacteria and fungi. Normally, earwax naturally moves out of the ear due to jaw movements like chewing and talking, carrying old cells and foreign particles with it. However, earwax can accumulate, leading to blockage, discomfort, or hearing issues. This often prompts home removal, with hydrogen peroxide being a common option.
How Hydrogen Peroxide Addresses Earwax
Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in over-the-counter eardrops for earwax removal, typically at a 3% concentration. When this solution contacts earwax, it reacts with catalase, an enzyme present in body tissues and dead skin cells within the wax. This reaction breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. The oxygen release creates a bubbling or fizzing sensation, which softens the earwax, breaks it into smaller pieces, and dislodges it, making it easier to drain.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide Safely
To use hydrogen peroxide for earwax removal, begin with a 3% solution. Dilute the 3% hydrogen peroxide with an equal part of warm water, ensuring it’s close to body temperature to prevent dizziness. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing upward, placing a towel beneath your head to catch any overflow.
Gently pull the outer ear up and back to help straighten the ear canal. Using a clean dropper or a bulb syringe, carefully place five to ten drops of the diluted solution into the ear canal. You will likely hear a bubbling or fizzing sound, indicating the solution is working. Remain in this position for about five to ten minutes, then tilt your head to allow the solution and softened wax to drain onto the towel. Repeat this process once or twice daily for a few days, up to four days, until the earwax clears.
When Not to Use Hydrogen Peroxide
While generally safe for earwax softening, hydrogen peroxide should not be used in the ear in certain situations. Avoid hydrogen peroxide if you suspect or know you have a perforated eardrum (a hole or tear in the eardrum). Symptoms of a perforated eardrum can include ear pain that may suddenly subside, drainage (mucus-like, pus-filled, or bloody), hearing loss, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), or dizziness. Putting liquid into an ear with a perforated eardrum can lead to inner ear problems or infections.
Hydrogen peroxide should not be used if you have an ear infection, ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes), or have recently undergone ear surgery. Using it can cause pain, irritation, further infection, or damage. Some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as ear irritation, itching, fullness, temporary hearing changes, or dizziness even with proper use. High concentrations (above 10%) of hydrogen peroxide can cause blistering or burns. If any pain, discharge, or worsening symptoms occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Other Earwax Removal Options
If hydrogen peroxide is not suitable or ineffective, several other options exist for earwax removal. Many over-the-counter earwax softening drops contain ingredients like mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or sodium bicarbonate. Olive oil is another gentle option to lubricate and soften earwax. These solutions are applied for a few days to soften the wax before it can naturally drain or be rinsed out.
Gentle ear irrigation using a rubber-bulb syringe filled with warm water can also help dislodge softened wax. It is important to tilt the head to allow water to drain out and avoid forceful flushing. Always consult a healthcare professional before attempting any home remedies. Seek medical attention if symptoms like persistent pain, ear discharge, sudden or significant hearing loss, severe dizziness, or a feeling of blockage do not improve or worsen. A doctor can safely examine the ear and perform procedures like irrigation, microsuction, or manual removal if needed.