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earwax
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Black-and-white photo of a man in a suit plugging his ears with his fingers. An orange polka dot pattern is behind his head.
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earwax

substance
Also known as: cerumen
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Quick Summary

Black-and-white photo of a man in a suit plugging his ears with his fingers. An orange polka dot pattern is behind his head.
Why Do We Have Earwax? Resist the urge to grab a cotton swab.

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural secretion from glands in the outer ear canal. It is composed of fatty acids, alcohols, cholesterol, and squalene. The primary function of earwax is to protect the ear by trapping dust, bacteria, insects, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching the sensitive inner ear and eardrum.1

Normally, earwax migrates outward on its own, aided by jaw movements and the production of new wax, carrying debris with it. However, overproduction or improper removal can lead to earwax impaction, where the wax hardens and blocks the ear canal. This impaction can cause a painless hearing impairment by preventing sound waves from reaching the eardrum. It is advised not to insert objects smaller than an elbow into the ear, as this can push the wax further in and potentially cause damage. If impaction is suspected, a physician can safely remove the excess wax.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
  1. Why Do We Have Earwax?
  2. earwax impaction
  3. ear disease - Impacted earwax
  4. earwax

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