How To Safely Remove Ear Wax

Earwax is a substance naturally produced by the body to shield the ears, according to Cleveland Clinic. It is medically known as cerumen. As unappealing as it may look, earwax is quite essential for your health. It carries numerous hygienic properties that help keep the infectious agents at bay. Earwax is commonly located in the outer region of the ear canal and does not go deep into the ear. As the earwax is reaching the outside of the ear, it turns dry and flakey. Earwax color may range from off-white, orange, light brown, or black, according to MedicalNewsToday. The newly developed earwax is usually yellowish, while the old build-up is darker in shade and appears dry. 

While earwax is harmless, it's important to remove excessive earwax before it blocks the ear canal and causes serious complications, warns Cleveland Clinic. If it remains intact, you may be susceptible to irritation and even loss of hearing. At times, you may even feel dizziness or experience tinnitus.

The easiest way to remove earwax is by softening up the build-up of the earwax (via MayoClinic). You can achieve this by using certain oils to make the wax oily and ready to be removed. Begin by applying a few drops of baby oil, or glycerin into your ear, where you can see the wax. Once you've waited a minimum of 24 hours, you can tilt your head and use an eye dropper to transfer some warm water into your ear. Then wiggle your ear to straighten out your ear canal, and just drain it out by tilting your head to the opposite side.

If this doesn't work, it's best to consult a doctor who can safely remove the earwax using instruments like a suction machine, states the Cleveland Clinic. If you have the symptoms of an ear infection, you may want to steer clear of using oils without discussing it with a healthcare professional first, as it may complicate the situation, as per MayoClinic.