Understanding Earwax: Composition, Benefits & Impacted Wax

Earwax is a tacky, liquid secretion made from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands in the outer one-third of the ear. It is a natural secretion that occurs within the ears of humans and many other mammals. In normal amounts, earwax has actual health benefits. However, problems can occur when earwax builds up and becomes impacted inside the ear canal. There are two different consistencies of earwax, wet or dry. Color ranges from light to dark brown, or orange.

Composition

• Earwax is a combination of desquamated keratinocytes and hair, as well as secretions from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands. It is primarily composed of long chain fatty acids, alcohols, squalene and cholesterol.

Benefits

• Earwax moisturizes the skin of the ear, fights off ear infections and traps dust, dirt and small insects before they have a chance to enter the ear canal.

Problems

• In excessive amounts or with impaction, hearing loss, pain and coughing can occur. Impaction usually happens when an object is used to remove wax, and actually pushes it into the canal.

Treatment

• To remove excessive wax, doctors may recommend using drops, irrigation, or to use physician instruments to manually extract it.

Prohibited Measures

• Ear candles are not a safe option of wax removal. Serious injury could occur.