Understanding Earwax

Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance that protects the ear canal by trapping dust and preventing infections. In most people, it moves out of the ear naturally. But sometimes, earwax builds up and causes blockages, leading to hearing loss, discomfort, or ringing in the ears.

At Ear Wax Removal Devon, we help patients across North Devon with safe, professional ear cleaning. 

How Earwax Normally Works

Protection

Earwax serves as a protective barrier, blocking dust and other foreign particles from entering. It also repels water, which lowers the chance of infections caused by moisture.

Moisturising

Earwax acts as a natural moisturiser, keeping the ear canal skin soft and  protected against external irritants, such as water and cold air, in order to prevent skin from dryness and cracking.

Cleaning

As earwax moves outward, it clears away trapped debris and dead skin, keeping the ear canal clean. It is antimicrobial and acidic, which helps to fight infections.

If ears are self-cleaning, why do they get blocked?

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Genetics

Some people are naturally more prone, or may have a curved ear canal that makes it harder for wax to naturally exit the ear.

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Using headphones or earplugs

Sweat gets trapped and creates a warm, moist environment, which traps existing wax, and the headphones themselves push wax deeper into the ear canal, hindering its natural expulsion.

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Frequent swimming

Traps water in the ear, which can soften the wax, cause blockages, and create a moist environment for bacteria to grow, leading to earwax buildup and even infection.

If you find yourself needing frequent ear cleaning, it’s best to have regular check-ups and safe removal by a professional.

Risks of Leaving Earwax Untreated

Untreated earwax build-up can lead to:

  • Persistent hearing loss

  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds)

  • Earache and discomfort

  • Increased risk of ear infection

  • Higher chance of blockage from water

  • Dizziness or balance issues

Prevention Tips

You may not be able to stop earwax from forming, but you can reduce the risk of blockages:

  • Avoid using cotton buds inside the ear canal
  • Use ear plugs if you’re regularly in water
  • Use olive oil drops occasionally if prone to wax build-up
  • Keep hearing aids clean and have regular ear checks
  • Seek professional removal instead of home remedies

How We Treat Earwax Build-Up

At Ear Wax Removal Devon, we use safe, effective methods recommended by ear care specialists:

  • Microsuction – A precise suction device removes wax under magnification.

  • Irrigation – A gentle stream of warm water flushes out softened wax.

Appointments are 30 minutes, and most patients notice instant improvement in hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We’ve answered the most common ones to help you get started with ease.

Earwax is naturally produced by the body to protect the ear canal, but if too much builds up or it becomes impacted, it needs to be removed to prevent further problems such as hearing loss.

Not directly, but factors like skin health and hydration can play a role.

Yes. Age, genetics, hearing aid use, and health conditions all increase the risk.

Most people only need treatment occasionally, but if you’re prone to build-up, we can recommend a maintenance schedule.