Last Updated on September 20, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that earwax can be removed with a toolset even in babies. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook post advertising an earwax removal toolkit displays a video which starts with a baby with earwax and then shows how the toolkit works.
Its caption also reads, “Safe and efficient deep cleaning of ears, prevent infection, and relieve itching. The perfect personal care tool for your family.”
Fact Check
Does earwax play an important role?
Yes. Earwax, or cerumen, serves essential functions in ear health. It acts as a natural barrier, safeguarding the ear canal from debris and insects. The natural oils in earwax moisturize the ear canal, preventing dryness and discomfort. Furthermore, earwax possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, shielding against infections. The ear’s self-cleaning mechanism pushes earwax from the ear canal to the outer ear, facilitating natural, maintenance-free cleaning.
ENT Specialist Dr Priyajeet Panigrahi, MBBS, DNB, and MNAMS, informs, “Ear wax primarily consists of sebum from the glands, deceased epithelial cells, keratin, and fatty acids. The color of the wax tends to turn black when there is a higher concentration of keratin and dead cells, often associated with dirt and commonly observed in older individuals. On the other hand, if the wax contains a larger proportion of fatty acids, it appears yellowish, which is typically seen in children and is more common in older people.”
Does earwax need regular removal?
Not necessarily. Earwax (cerumen) does not typically require regular removal. In fact, the ear has a self-cleaning mechanism that usually keeps the ear canal clean without the need for intervention. As you engage in everyday activities such as talking and chewing, the movement of your jaw helps to naturally move earwax from the ear canal toward the outer ear. Eventually, the earwax dries up and flakes off or falls out on its own. This process ensures that the ear canal remains clean and free from excessive earwax buildup.
In most cases, the earwax that is produced naturally by your body will not cause problems and does not need to be removed. However, some individuals may experience earwax buildup or impaction, which can lead to symptoms such as hearing loss, pain, or discomfort. In these cases, it may be necessary to have a healthcare professional safely remove the excess earwax.
Should you clean your baby’s ear with a toolset?
No. It is not recommended to use a wax cleaner toolset to clean your baby’s or your own ears. In fact, doing so could cause permanent hearing damage. Earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect the ear canal from dust, dirt, and other foreign objects. A baby’s ear does not need to be cleaned more than 2-3 times a week with a washcloth or cotton wool and warm water.
Wax cleaner toolsets can push earwax further into the ear canal, where it can become lodged and cause a blockage. It can also introduce new bacteria, dust, or dirt.
Furthermore, babies’ ear canals are very small and delicate. It is easy to damage the ear canal or eardrum when using earwax tools, especially in babies.
Some online toolkits may be made with cheap, low-quality materials that could irritate or damage the ear canal. In fact, some online toolkits may not be effective at removing earwax.
If you or your baby has excessive earwax buildup or blockages, see a doctor for professional cleaning. A doctor can use a special ear irrigation device to gently flush the earwax out of the ear canal.
It’s essential to strike a balance between maintaining ear health and avoiding excessive earwax removal, as removing too much earwax can lead to dryness and irritation of the ear canal. Some people also use earwax removal spray, which is also not safe. If you have concerns about earwax or experience symptoms related to earwax, consult a healthcare provider for guidance and appropriate care. They can assess your condition and determine whether earwax removal is necessary.
Numerous online products purport to address various conditions or offer quick solutions to problems. THIP Media advises against succumbing to these potentially misleading claims and has diligently fact-checked assertions like getting fit after wearing a bangle, getting Korean skin with a skin whitening cream, etc.
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