- Ear candles do not safely remove earwax. There is no scientific proof that they work, and the FDA warns against using them.
- Ear candling can be dangerous. Risks include burns, pushed-in earwax, and even punctured eardrums that may cause lasting hearing damage.
- Professional ear care is the safest choice. Seeing an audiologist ensures earwax is removed safely and helps protect your long-term hearing health.
Over the years, we’ve had patients ask us about ear candles. They have often heard about them from a friend or seen them at a health store, and were curious to try them. At The Hearing Connection, we want to share our professional perspective on ear candles so you can make informed choices about your hearing health.
What Are Ear Candles?
Ear candles are hollow tubes made of fabric soaked in beeswax or paraffin.
One end is placed in the ear canal while the other end is lit.
The concept is that the flame “creates” a gentle vacuum that pulls earwax out of the ear.
Some people believe ear candles can also remove toxins from the body or improve overall well-being.
While the concept might sound interesting, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
In fact, research shows that ear candles are not effective for removing earwax. The “residue” people sometimes see inside the candle afterward is usually just burnt wax from the candle itself, not earwax from the ear.
The FDA has issued a warning about ear candles as well.
Ear Candling Risks
We understand the appeal of a “simple and natural-sounding” solution. However, ear candling carries real risks. Burns are one of the most common injuries I see from patients who have tried them. Hot wax can drip into the ear canal or onto the skin, causing painful burns that may require medical attention.
There is also the danger of pushing earwax deeper into the ear rather than removing it. This can lead to blockages, hearing loss, or discomfort.
In extreme cases, ear candling may result to punctured eardrums, which can cause permanent hearing damage.
As audiologists, we cannot recommend ear candling as a safe option. Your ears are delicate, and even small injuries can have long-term effects on your hearing.
Why People Turn to Ear Candles
It is not surprising that people are curious about ear candles. The marketing can make them sound like a gentle, holistic solution, and many people want to avoid going to a clinic for earwax removal. For some, the process also feels calming and ritualistic.
However, there are safer and more effective options that exist. You should never have to risk your hearing health for the sake of convenience or curiosity.
Safe Ways to Remove Earwax
Your ears are self-cleaning in most cases. The skin in the ear canal naturally moves earwax outward, where it can be gently wiped away with a washcloth. You do not need to stick anything inside your ear to clean it.
If you feel you have excess earwax, the safest step is to see a hearing care professional.
Over-the-counter earwax removal kits can help in some cases, but it is best to speak to a professional before using them, especially if you have a history of ear problems, ear surgery, or a hole in your eardrum.
When to Seek Professional Help
See an audiologist if you experience any of the following:
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Muffled
- Pain or discomfort in the ear
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds)
- Dizziness or imbalance
These may signify earwax buildup or an underlying health issue that needs attention.
We discourage that you treat it at home with ear candles as that could only make the problem worse.
Got hearing concerns? The Hearing Connections is your trusted link to an expert audiologist in Massapequa, NY.
Schedule An Appointment With An Audiologist in Massapequa, NY
We know how tempting it can be to try at-home remedies for ear care, especially ones that are marketed as simple and natural. However, ear candling is not an effective method for removing earwax, and it can cause serious harm. Your hearing is too important to risk.
At The Hearing Connection, our goal is to keep your ears healthy with expert and science-backed care.
Do you have questions or concerns about earwax, safe ear cleaning methods, or any aspect of your hearing health?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted audiologist!
Contact us today to request an appointment with expert audiologists in Massapequa, NY!
