Your ears' ability to stay safe and healthy is greatly influenced by earwax. Small glands in the ear canal produce cerumen, often known as earwax. This gooey material helps keep things from entering the eardrum by trapping dust and other small particles.
As the earwax dries, it naturally flows out of the canal and picks up debris. However, earwax can sometimes accumulate on its own (some people create more than others) or as a result of unsuccessful cotton swab removal attempts.
Any number of chemicals can be inserted into the ear canal to assist soften hardened wax for simpler removal. For instance, mineral oil, baby oil, hydrogen peroxide, and commercial over-the-counter ear drops are all safe. However, if you have a current ear infection, a ruptured eardrum, or if you've had ear surgery, you shouldn't use them.
Remember that any liquid you place in an ear that is just partially clogged might become stuck between the wax and eardrum and momentarily worsen the obstruction.
One word of warning with hydrogen peroxide: once the oxygen bubbles off, it turns into water in the ear. As a result, germs may be able to proliferate in the wet ear canal. Using rubbing alcohol to gently rinse the canal can help dry the region and eliminate any remaining moisture. Additionally, cease removing earwax right away if you have any pain; you may have an undetected perforated eardrum and need to visit a doctor.
