Safe Earwax Softening Methods and Solutions

Earwax softening is the process of using ear drops or solutions to break down hardened earwax for easier removal and ear canal health.
Related products/activities
Application
Ear Cleaning | Ear Health | Ear Care | Soften Earwax For Removal | Earwax Softening Drops | Ear Health Practices
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Earwax Softening FAQ


Image credit: gosupps.com

How do you soften earwax?

You can soften earwax by putting a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, or over-the-counter wax softening drops such as Debrox or Murine into the affected ear canal. That may be enough to get the wax to come out.

What is earwax & how does it work?

Earwax is a waxy substance comprised of secretions in the ear canal. These include substances called cerumen (secreted by specialized sweat glands known as ceruminous glands) and sebum (a skin oil secreted throughout the body by sebaceous glands ). Ear wax protects the outer ear canal from dirt, insects, bacteria, and other harmful agents.

Can hydrogen peroxide cause earwax to soften?

After hydrogen peroxide bubbles, it turns into water, to remove the water you can gently rinse the ear canal with alcohol to dry out the moisture and avoid bacterial growth. Earwax is an oil-like substance. Thus, some oils can cause earwax to soften when the two substances come into contact.

How long does earwax last?

Tilt your head to the side and gently drip 5 to 10 drops of the solution into your ear, 1 drop at a time. Leave the solution in the ear for up to 1 hour, then flush with water. Do this once a day until the earwax clears up. It may happen within a couple of days. Don’t do this for any longer than 2 weeks.

Earwax Softening References

If you want to know more about Earwax Softening, consider exploring links below:

Explore Related Topics

How does regular ear cleaning help in preventing ear infections?

Discuss the importance of regular ear cleaning in preventing ear infections. Share proper ear cleaning techniques, tools, and frequency recommendations for maintaining ear hygiene and health.

What are the best over-the-counter options for ear infection relief?

Share your go-to OTC products for easing ear infection symptoms and ask for recommendations from the community.