Ear wax removal – the best way

As you know there are a few ways of ear wax removal. I’m sure you have all heard of ear candling before. You may have seen ear candles at your local pharmacy. They are often located near other wax softening drops, ointments, and ear plugs. But do you ever wonder if ear candling is actually an effective way of removing wax?

What is ear candling exactly?

An ear candle is a long hollow candle that is placed into the ear canal. It is usually made up of substances such as soy wax and beeswax. The candle tube can be around 15-20cm long. Once the ear candle has been placed into the ear canal, the tip of the candle is lit with a flame and left to burn for around 10-15 minutes. Usually, the candle will need to be trimmed as it melts to ensure that it remains as a hollow tube.

So how does it work?

The warmth that is generated from the candles flame creates a suction motion (like a vacuum) which causes the candle to pull wax out of the ear into the hollow tube.

Are there risks involved?

Ear candling poses a high risk of injury to your ear and surrounding areas. It can cause serious burns to the ear/face, bleeding, or other injury. If not placed correctly, ear candling can perforate the eardrum (ouch!) and will often push wax further into the ear canal causing total wax occlusion.

Can I perform ear candling myself?

Ear candling is advertised as an at home remedy for ear wax removal. Ear candling can be performed by yourself at home, with a partner or by a beautician/other health care therapist.

Is ear candling effective?

There is no scientific based evidence to support the idea that ear candling is effective in ear wax removal. We do not recommend ear candling. It is not safe and there is no evidence to support it as an effective method of wax removal. If you need ear wax removal, we provide the safest and most effective way to remove wax here at Helix Hearing. We use a procedure called microsuction, as well as curettage. This is the same procedure performed by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist.