Earwax Removal: Myths vs. Facts
We all have earwax (also know as cerumen), yet so many of us misunderstand it. Some people attempt dangerous methods to eliminate it; others fear it’s an indication of poor hygiene. To make sure you know fact from fiction when it comes to ear health, here are the most common myths and facts about earwax, as well as when it’s time to visit an earwax removal clinic . Myth 1: Earwax is dirty and should be cleaned frequently Fact: Earwax is a defense mechanism for your ears. Earwax is anti-bacterial and is one way your body captures dust, dirt and even bugs. It’s that “self-cleaning” system in your ear. Your ears are self-cleaning most of the time. While you talk and chew old wax migrates to the outer ear where it dries out and flakes away. Insisting on frequent cleaning, or poking around with cotton swabs, can do more harm than good. Myth 2: It Is Safe to Clean Ears with Cotton Swabs Reality: Cotton swabs can push wax further into the ear and do damage. It’s one of the most frequen...