Earwax is crucial for keeping our ears healthy. It is a mixture of oily secretions, dead skin cells, and dust that helps protect the ears from dirt, bacteria, and infections. Despite its importance, many people feel the need to clean their ears by inserting objects like cotton buds, which is unnecessary and can remove the ear’s natural oils, causing more irritation and discomfort. Even worse, some people use inappropriate objects, such as pen caps or hairpins, which can damage the delicate ear canals.
In this context, ear candles are seen by some as a better option for removing earwax because they don’t require inserting anything deeply into the ear. However, there is little scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of ear candles. On the contrary, it has been observed that they can cause more problems than they solve, such as the candle wax entering the ear rather than removing the earwax.
Are they effective?
Regarding whether ear candles really work, it is important to note that while some natural or homeopathic remedies can be helpful, like using olive oil to soften hardened earwax, ear candles are not supported by the medical community. Many images online show wax residue inside ear candles, but research has shown that this wax comes from the candle itself, not from earwax.
Additionally, studies have attempted to replicate the supposed suction that ear candles claim to create, but they have found no evidence that this suction occurs or that earwax is effectively removed.
In conclusion, ear candles can be dangerous and could cause damage to the ears and face. Even without specific restrictions in some countries, their use is discouraged by health professionals. To clean your ears safely, it is best to avoid inserting any objects into them unless under the supervision of a hearing health specialist.
