Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a dark, waxy substance that is produced in the ear canal of humans and other mammals.
It serves several important functions, such as lubrication, cleaning, and protection against water, fungi, and bacteria.
However, it is a common belief that inserting cotton buds or q-tips into the ears can remove earwax build-up.
The reality is that this practice can cause harm to the ears. Here are three reasons why earwax should be left alone:
1. Damaging consequences – Using cotton buds or q-tips to clean the ears can harm the eardrum or ear canal. The earwax can be pushed further into the canal, making it harder to remove. This can lead to hearing problems and a feeling of pressure in the ear. In severe cases, earwax pushed toward the eardrum can cause painful ear infections.
2. No need to intervene – The ear naturally cleans itself, so there is no need to use cotton buds or q-tips. Earwax is produced in the ear canal and also naturally moves out of the canal. In some cases, people produce more or drier earwax than others, but using cotton buds or q-tips is still not safe.
3. Indicates good health – People often associate earwax with poor hygiene, but this is not the case. Earwax has many benefits, such as absorbing debris and dead skin cells, trapping dirt and dust, moisturising the skin in the ear canal, and preventing infections. The amount and composition of earwax vary among individuals and are influenced by factors such as age, diet, ethnicity, and environment. Earwax is a sign of normal, healthy ears.
In conclusion, despite warnings not to insert cotton buds or q-tips into the ear canal, people still do so. It is important to understand that this practice is harmful to the ears and it is best to let the earwax and ear canal perform their functions naturally.
