Earwax is made up of a number of different substances that form a protective coating over the skin that lines the ear canal (the passage between the outer and inner ear), preventing it from drying and cracking. Earwax consists of:
- dead, flattened cells on the outer layer of skin,
- a wax-like substance produced by sweat glands,
- sebum (an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands), and
- various other substances, such as cosmetics and dirt.
Earwax has a number of functions. It cleans, lubricates and protects the lining of your ear, by trapping dirt and repelling water. It is also slightly acidic and has antibacterial properties. Without earwax, the skin inside your ear may become dry, cracked or infected, or waterlogged and sore.
However, earwax can sometimes cause your ear canal to become blocked, leading to pain or temporary hearing loss. Every year in the UK an estimated 2.3 million people have problems with earwax and need to have it removed.
Some people produce an excessive amount of earwax. If you have too much, the risk of it becoming impacted is increased. This is where the earwax is pushed into your ear canal (for example, by a cotton bud or hearing aid). If this happens, your hearing is likely to be affected and the earwax will need to be removed.
