Earwax, or cerumen, is a common bodily substance produced within the ear canal. This waxy material plays an important role in maintaining ear health.
The Ceruminous Glands
Ceruminous glands, found within the outer third of the ear canal, are the primary producers of earwax. These are modified sweat glands. Sebaceous glands, attached to tiny hair follicles, also contribute. They secrete an oily substance called sebum, which mixes with ceruminous gland secretions to form earwax. The ear canal contains a significant number of these glands, often numbering in the thousands.
Purpose and Composition of Earwax
Earwax serves multiple protective functions for the ear canal and eardrum. It acts as a natural barrier, trapping dust, dirt, foreign particles, and even small insects, preventing them from reaching deeper into the ear. The waxy consistency also helps to lubricate the ear canal’s skin, preventing it from drying out and becoming itchy. Furthermore, earwax possesses antimicrobial properties, helping to protect against bacterial and fungal infections due to its slightly acidic pH balance and specific proteins.
Earwax is a complex mixture of various substances. Its main components include dead skin cells and hair. Secretions from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands contribute fatty acids, alcohols, and other compounds.
How Earwax is Produced
Earwax formation is a continuous process, with glands constantly secreting their components. Ceruminous gland secretions and oily sebum from sebaceous glands combine to create the waxy substance. This newly formed earwax then slowly migrates outwards towards the ear canal opening.
The ear has a self-cleaning mechanism, often described as a “conveyor belt” system. As new skin cells form deeper in the ear canal, they gradually push older cells, earwax, and trapped debris outwards. Everyday jaw movements, such as chewing and talking, also contribute to this outward migration. This helps move the earwax out of the ear canal, where it eventually falls out or is washed away.
Managing Earwax
For most individuals, earwax naturally clears out and does not require intervention. However, sometimes earwax can accumulate excessively, leading to a condition known as earwax impaction. Symptoms of impacted earwax may include fullness or pain in the ear, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or dizziness. Factors like narrow ear canals, excessive ear hair, or using cotton swabs can contribute to impaction by pushing wax deeper into the ear.
To safely manage earwax, it is recommended to avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs, bobby pins, or ear candles into the ear canal, as these can push the wax further in or cause injury. Instead, gently wiping the outer ear with a washcloth is sufficient. If earwax buildup becomes problematic, over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, or olive oil can help soften the wax. If home remedies are ineffective or symptoms persist, such as severe pain, drainage, or fever, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. They can safely examine the ear and remove the excess wax using specialized instruments or irrigation.