Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring waxy substance found within the human ear canal, extending from the outer ear opening to the eardrum. It is a normal and healthy bodily secretion that plays an important part in maintaining ear hygiene and protection.
The Glands Behind Earwax Production
Earwax production involves two distinct types of glands located within the outer third of the ear canal: sebaceous glands and ceruminous glands. Both types contribute their secretions to create the unique composition of earwax.
Sebaceous Glands
Sebaceous glands are associated with tiny hair follicles. They secrete an oily substance called sebum, which lubricates the skin and hair, preventing dryness. Sebum is rich in lipids, including long-chain fatty acids, cholesterol, and squalene, contributing to the waxy and water-repellent properties of cerumen.
Ceruminous Glands
Ceruminous glands are modified sweat glands. These specialized glands produce a less-viscous, milky secretion containing antimicrobial proteins and peptides. Their ducts often drain into hair follicles, where their secretions combine with sebum. On average, an ear can contain between 1,000 and 2,000 ceruminous glands.
The Role of Earwax and Its Formation
Earwax serves several important functions, including lubrication, protection, and self-cleaning. It acts as a natural moisturizer for the delicate skin lining the ear canal, preventing it from becoming dry and irritated.
The sticky consistency of earwax helps to trap foreign particles, such as dust, dirt, and even small insects, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Earwax also possesses antimicrobial properties, helping to protect the ear from bacterial and fungal infections. It maintains a slightly acidic environment in the ear canal, which inhibits the growth of various microorganisms.
Earwax is formed through a combination of the secretions from the sebaceous and ceruminous glands, along with shed dead skin cells and hair. As skin cells in the ear canal naturally flake off, they mix with the glandular secretions to form the bulk of the cerumen; keratin from these dead skin cells makes up approximately 60% of earwax volume.
The ear canal has a natural self-cleaning mechanism that continuously moves earwax outward. This process involves the migration of skin cells from the eardrum towards the ear canal opening. Movements of the jaw, such as those made during chewing or talking, also assist in propelling the earwax along the canal, allowing it to eventually fall out or be washed away from the ear opening.