Ear candling is an at-home treatment for ear wax removal that involves using hot candle wax to remove ear wax and other debris. However, this treatment can be dangerous for hearing and comes with a large number of risks—including hearing loss.
What Is Ear Candling?
Ear candling is a form of alternative medicine that involves placing a lit, hollow, cone-shaped candle into the ear. The heat from the candle pulls ear wax and other debris out of the ear and into the candle. No wax is actually dripped into the ear.
The ear candle used in ear candling is about 10 inches long and usually contains ingredients like herbs, honey, and various essential oils. This ear wax removal method is usually performed by someone who specializes in alternative medicine, though some people try doing it on their own at home.
First, the person bends or lies to one side, with one ear facing up. The pointed end of the candle is lit and placed in the ear for about 15 minutes. Afterward, the ear candle can be cut open to display the contents removed from the ear, such as ear wax, dirt, and other debris.
What Are the Risks Associated With Ear Candling?
Ear candling is not recommended for ear wax removal, as this procedure may offer more risks than benefits. According to a 2017 study published in BMC Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders, ear candling is ineffective and dangerous, and can cause serious injuries like perforations of the eardrum even when used according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Potential ear candling risks include:
- Pushing of ear wax deeper into the ear canal
- Ears become completely plugged by wax
- Burns to the face, hair, scalp, and ear, including inside the ear
- Punctured eardrum
- Inflammation or infection of the ear
- Bleeding
- Accidental fires
- Hearing loss
What Are the Safest Ways to Remove Ear Wax?
Ear wax can be safely removed by an audiologist or a doctor who specializes in hearing and ear health. An audiologist will use medical tools such as a curette, water irrigation device, cerumen spoon, forceps, or suction device to remove ear wax buildup.
Over-the-counter ear wax removal products can also be used to safely remove ear wax, with the exception of ear candles. Wax softener drops can soften ear wax so it can be dislodged and removed more easily. Adding a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, or hydrogen peroxide to the ear can also soften and dislodge ear wax. Some people even use a baking soda-water solution to flush the ears and remove ear wax.
Many audiologists and ear doctors recommend against using cotton swabs to remove ear wax, as this method may push wax further into the ears. When pushed into the ears too far, cotton swabs can also rupture the eardrum to cause hearing loss.
An audiologist can provide additional tips on how to safely remove ear wax without damaging hearing.
Professional Ear Wax Removal With Sonora Hearing Care, LLC
Sonora Hearing Care, LLC offers audiology treatment and services including diagnostic hearing evaluations, hearing aid repair, and ear wax removal. Contact us today at (520) 881-8740 to request an appointment or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.