Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance that plays an important role in ear health. It helps to lubricate and protect the ear canal. Its consistency can vary significantly among individuals, ranging from wet to dry.
Understanding Ear Wax
Earwax is a mixture of dead skin cells, hair, and secretions from glands within the ear canal. These secretions include fatty acids, cholesterol, alcohols, and squalene. This substance traps dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum and causing damage. Earwax also moisturizes the ear canal and contains antimicrobial properties that protect against bacterial and fungal infections.
There are two types of earwax: wet and dry. Wet earwax appears sticky and can range in color from yellowish-brown to dark brown. This type contains a higher proportion of lipids, making it moist.
In contrast, dry earwax is flaky, crumbly, and gray or white. It has a lower lipid content, making it less sticky. Both types are effective in their protective functions, with their differing characteristics rooted in genetics.
The Genetic Explanation
The type of earwax an individual produces is determined by the ABCC11 gene. A variation, or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), within this gene dictates whether a person will have wet or dry earwax. The presence of at least one “G” allele (genotypes GA or GG) leads to wet earwax, which is the dominant trait. Conversely, individuals with two copies of the “A” allele produce dry earwax, which is the recessive trait.
The ABCC11 gene provides instructions for a protein that transports molecules, including fats. The variant associated with wet earwax results in a more active protein, leading to higher lipid content. The allele for dry earwax is thought to have originated in Northeast Asia approximately 2,000 generations ago and spread. Today, wet earwax is common in populations of European and African descent, while dry earwax is prevalent in East Asian populations, including Chinese and Koreans. Intermediate frequencies are observed in South Asia, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and Inuits.
Living with Wet Ear Wax
Having wet earwax is a normal genetic trait and is not a health problem. The body’s ears are self-cleaning, and earwax naturally moves out of the ear canal, carrying debris. Therefore, special cleaning methods are not necessary for wet earwax. For ear hygiene, clean only the outer part of the ear with a soft washcloth or tissue. Inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal can push earwax deeper, causing blockages or injury to the eardrum.
While wet earwax is normal, individuals should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as ear pain, ear fullness, decreased hearing, tinnitus, or dizziness. These symptoms could indicate an earwax impaction, where wax blocks the ear canal, or another ear condition. Additionally, discharge, a foul odor, or changes in earwax color (green or black) could be a sign of infection or injury, requiring evaluation.