Earwax: What is it and should you get rid of it?

Have you noticed that sounds seem a little muffled lately, or that there’s a low, persistent ringing in your ears? You’re not alone—and in many cases, the cause is simpler than people expect. One of the most common reasons for temporary hearing changes is earwax buildup or blockage. 

Earwax plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy, but when too much builds up, it can interfere with hearing and cause discomfort. So, let’s answer some of the most common questions about earwax, including what it is, how to recognize a problem, and the safest ways to manage it. 

• What is earwax?
• What are the signs of earwax buildup?
• Can earwax buildup be treated at home?
• When should you see a healthcare professional?
• How can you prevent excessive earwax in the future?
• Caring for your ears long term

Note: Our Hearing Care Providers (HCPs) are here to support your hearing health and provide personalized guidance. However, if you're concerned about medical issues affecting your hearing, always consult your healthcare provider first. 

What is earwax? 

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by glands in the ear canal. While it’s often thought of as something that needs to be removed, earwax actually serves two very important purposes: protection and lubrication. 

As earwax forms, it traps dust, debris, and dead skin cells, preventing them from reaching the eardrum or causing irritation. At the same time, it helps keep the skin of the ear canal moisturized, reducing dryness and itchiness. In healthy ears, wax slowly moves outward on its own and eventually flakes away without any effort on your part. 

Sometimes, however, earwax doesn’t clear as effectively. When wax builds up faster than it can be expelled—or hardens inside the ear canal—it can form a blockage that interferes with sound transmission and affects hearing comfort. 

What are the signs of earwax buildup? 

Earwax buildup doesn’t feel the same for everyone. The level of discomfort depends on how much wax has accumulated and how long it’s been present. Some people notice mild changes, while others experience more obvious symptoms. Common signs of earwax buildup include: 

• Earache or pain in the ear or neck
• A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus)
• Muffled hearing or sounds that feel “underwater”

In young children, earwax blockage may show up as increased irritability or repeated attempts to touch or insert objects into the ear. Because children’s ears are especially delicate, it’s recommended to seek prompt medical attention. 

Older adults are particularly affected by earwax buildup. In fact, it is one of the leading causes of conductive hearing loss in this age group. Hearing aids can sometimes make the issue worse by preventing the ear from naturally clearing wax, which is why routine ear checks are especially important for hearing aid users. 

If you experience severe pain, drainage, or a strong odour coming from the ear, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may indicate an infection rather than wax buildup.  

Can earwax buildup be treated at home? 

The ear is designed to clean itself, which means that in most cases, no at-home removal is necessary. The only part of the ear that should ever be cleaned at home is the pinna, or the visible outer ear. 

When earwax builds up deeper in the ear canal, it’s best to have it assessed by a Hearing Care Provider (HCP). Most people don’t have the tools or skills to safely see inside the ear and determine whether wax removal is even needed. Attempting to remove wax without proper visibility or training can push it further inward or damage sensitive structures. 

If removal is required, a professional will determine the safest approach. In some cases, if the wax is too hard to remove immediately, a patient may be advised to use a few drops of mineral oil daily for a short period to soften it before removal. This guidance should always come from a healthcare professional, not from guesswork or online remedies. 

When should you see a healthcare professional? 

While earwax buildup is common and usually manageable, there are times when professional care is essential. Seeking help early can prevent complications and protect your hearing. You should see your primary healthcare provider if you experience: 

• Significant or persistent ear pain
• Sudden or noticeable hearing loss
• Fluid, drainage, or unusual odours from the ear
• Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve over time

In some cases, symptoms that seem like earwax buildup may actually be related to infection or another medical condition that requires treatment such as medication or, in rare cases, surgery. A professional evaluation ensures you get the right care for the underlying issue. 

How can you prevent excessive earwax in the future? 

Some people naturally produce more earwax than others, but for most individuals, prevention comes down to a few simple habits. Allowing the ear’s natural self-cleaning process to work is often the best approach. 

Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal, as they can push wax deeper and increase the risk of blockage. If you use earbuds frequently, consider giving your ears regular breaks to allow wax to migrate outward naturally. 

Routine ear care is especially important for people who wear hearing aids. That’s why our Hearing Care Providers (HCPs) help prevent buildups that may interfere with device performance. This should be sufficient for people who are prone to buildups, though some may benefit from more frequent monitoring. 

Caring for your ears long term 

Earwax is a normal and healthy part of your ear’s defence system. When managed safely, it doesn’t need to interfere with your comfort or hearing. Understanding when wax is doing its job—and when it’s time for professional care—can help you maintain clear hearing and peace of mind. 

Key takeaways 

• Earwax protects and lubricates the ear canal.
• Excess buildup can cause muffled hearing and discomfort.
• The ear is self-cleaning, and improper removal can cause harm.
• Professional assessment is the safest way to manage blockage.
• Regular ear care supports long-term hearing health.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about earwax buildup, help is available. Book a free hearing test or find a clinic near you to get personalized guidance and support.