If you spend time on TikTok or other social media platforms you have probably seen videos of people removing large amounts of earwax. Some find it fascinating others find it disturbing and many start wondering whether they should be cleaning their own ears more often. But before you reach for that cotton bud it is important to understand what earwax actually does why your body makes it and how to care for your ears safely.

What Earwax Really Does

Earwax which doctors call cerumen is not dirt and it is not a mistake of the body. It is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Its main jobs are to protect clean and lubricate the ears.

Earwax has antibacterial properties which means it helps protect against ear infections. It also traps dust dirt and small particles preventing them from reaching the eardrum. On top of that earwax keeps the ear canal moist which reduces itching dryness and irritation. In other words earwax is more of a friend than a foe.

Why Too Much Earwax Can Be a Problem

While earwax is helpful sometimes it builds up too much and causes blockage. This is known as earwax impaction. Symptoms of too much earwax include

• Ear pain or pressure

• Reduced hearing or muffled sounds

• A feeling of fullness in the ear

• Ringing in the ear also called tinnitus

• Dizziness in some cases

One of the main reasons earwax gets impacted is because of cotton buds. Instead of removing wax they often push it deeper into the ear canal where it becomes harder to remove.

TikTok and Earwax Removal Trends

Social media is full of videos showing people using ear candles suction devices or even strange home remedies to remove earwax. While these videos may be satisfying to watch many of these methods are unsafe. Ear candling for example has no proven medical benefit and can even burn the ear canal or eardrum. Unverified suction devices can also cause damage.

It is important to remember that just because something is trending online does not mean it is safe or recommended.

Safe Ear Cleaning Methods

The good news is that most people do not need to clean their ears at all. The ear is self cleaning which means old wax naturally works its way out while you talk chew or move your jaw. That is why you often see earwax near the outer part of the ear where it can be gently wiped away with a soft cloth.

If you feel you need to clean your ears here are safe methods

• Use a damp cloth to wipe the outer ear only

• Over the counter ear drops or mineral oil can soften wax and help it move out naturally

• Visit an ENT doctor if you experience blockage pain or hearing changes

What you should not do is put cotton buds hairpins or any sharp objects in your ears. These can push wax deeper or injure the delicate ear canal and eardrum.

When to See a Doctor

If you have persistent ear pain hearing loss dizziness or repeated ear infections it is time to see an ENT specialist. Professionals can safely remove earwax using tools or suction in a way that does not harm your ears.

At Blue Ribbon ENT in Sugar Land Texas patients receive expert ear care in a safe and comfortable environment. Whether it is wax buildup hearing issues or other ear nose and throat concerns Dr Susan and her team are here to help.

Final Thoughts

Earwax may have a bad reputation but it is actually one of your body’s protective shields. Most of the time it does not need to be removed. What is important is knowing when it becomes a problem and avoiding unsafe cleaning practices. If you are unsure about your ear health or if you are tempted by one of those TikTok earwax trends remember that professional care is always the safest choice.

For safe effective and expert treatment you can always visit Blue Ribbon ENT in Sugar Land Texas where your ear health is in the best hands.