Thinking of hopi candle earwax removal? Audiology Director Rob Ormerod answers whether ear candles work and reveals the hidden medical risks of ear candling/coning.
What is ear candling?
Ear candling involves a hollow, cone-shaped candle made of beeswax or paraffin that’s placed in the ear canal. The top is lit, and the heat is supposed to create suction, allegedly drawing earwax and toxins out of the ear. You might see this process sometimes referred to as “ear coning” or “Hopi ear candling”.
While common in alternative health circles, ear candling is not recommended by professionals, as it poses real risks to your hearing health without any proven benefits. The residue that is left inside the candle is not earwax but burnt candle residue, which can lead you to falsely believe that the procedure has removed earwax.
Bayfields Audiologist Tip: Earwax is a natural part of your ear’s health and cleaning process. If you’re concerned about buildup, it’s always better to seek professional advice.
How do ear candles work?
The theory behind ear candling is that heat from the burning candle creates a suction effect that pulls earwax and other debris from the ear canal. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The supposed suction effect is not measurable, and clinical studies have shown that ear candles do not effectively draw out earwax.
Moreover, the wax found inside the candle after use is not earwax, but residue from the candle itself. This is a common misconception promoted by the makers of ear candles. The waxy substance that appears inside the candle tube is simply the beeswax or paraffin used to make the candle, not earwax.
Bayfields Audiologist Tip: At Bayfields, we believe in safe, professional earwax removal methods like microsuction and irrigation. These treatments are effective, gentle, and most importantly, safe for your ears.
Does ear candling actually work?
No, ear candling is not safe. There are several documented risks associated with this practice:
-
Burns: The live flame used in ear candling can cause burns to the ear, face, or scalp.
-
Ear Canal Injury: The candle can cause damage to the ear canal and, in some cases, puncture the eardrum.
-
Wax Impaction: The procedure may push earwax further into the ear canal, causing impacted ear wax and potential hearing loss.
-
Infection: The burning candle and potential for injury can increase the risk of infection.
Official health organisations, including the NHS, NICE, and most UK audiology bodies, advise against using ear candles due to the risks involved. There is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of ear candling, and it is not considered a safe or reliable method for earwax removal.
Bayfields Audiologist Tip: If you’re tempted to try home remedies like ear candling, remember that professional treatments like microsuction and irrigation are the safest way to clear earwax.
Common myths and misconceptions about ear candling
There are many misconceptions surrounding ear candling:
-
Ear candling is a detox and cures ear/sinus problems: Some people believe that ear candling can detoxify the body or relieve sinus pressure and tinnitus. However, these claims are not supported by scientific evidence.
-
The wax inside the candle is earwax: The substance found inside the candle after ear candling is not earwax, just residue from the candle itself. Even when burned outside the ear, ear candles produce this same waxy residue, which can be misleading.
What do UK health authorities say?
The NHS, NICE, and other UK health authorities have issued warnings about ear candling. They do not recommend or regulate ear candling as a clinical procedure. The NHS and NICE specifically discourage its use because there is no medical evidence to support the claims around it, and the practice can cause significant harm.
Safer alternatives for earwax removal
If you're dealing with earwax buildup, there are plenty of safer, more effective alternatives to ear candling. While seeing a professional is always safest, there are even some safe ways to remove ear wax blockages at home.
-
Professional Earwax Removal: The safest way to remove impacted earwax is through professional services like microsuction or ear irrigation
-
Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops, such as olive oil or sodium bicarbonate solutions, can help soften earwax and assist in its natural removal.
-
Manual Removal by Professionals: Audiologists can use other safe, professional techniques to remove stubborn and impacted earwax.
When dealing with earwax buildup or any ear-related discomfort, it’s always best to consult with a professional audiologist. Book an earwax removal appointment with Bayfields today, and you’ll receive a hearing screening check completely free of charge.
If you’re not ready to see an audiologist just yet, you can always make a start with our online hearing test. It’s quick, free, and gives you a clear picture of your overall hearing health.
Ear candling FAQs
How do ear candles work?
Ear candles are designed to create a vacuum in the ear canal, which supposedly draws out earwax. However, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim, and ear candling can lead to injury.
Are ear candles safe?
No, ear candling is not safe. It can cause burns, ear canal injuries, and make impacted ear wax worse.
What are the risks of ear candling?
Ear candling can lead to burns, eardrum perforation, and injury to your ear canal. It is an ineffective, unsafe method for earwax removal and can make the problem worse.
Can ear candles help with blocked ears, tinnitus, or infections?
No, ear candles do not help with blocked ears, tinnitus, or ear infections. They are ineffective and can potentially worsen these conditions. For effective earwax removal, it’s best to consult a professional.
When should I see an audiologist about my earwax?
If your earwax causes pain, hearing loss, or dizziness, or if you notice sudden changes in colour, consistency, or smell, it’s time to see an audiologist for professional earwax removal.
Unblock your ears safely with professional earwax removal
Ear candling is an unsafe and ineffective method for earwax removal. It can cause serious harm to your ear and should be avoided. For safe earwax removal, trust professional methods like microsuction and irrigation – the only proven way to ensure your ear health is in safe hands. Book an earwax removal appointment at your local Bayfields practice today.
How to Safely Remove Earwax At Home
When it comes to personal hygiene, ear cleaning might not be the top of the list for most people.
How to Prepare for Ear Wax Removal at Bayfields Audiologists
Read on for all you need to know about the process and what you’ll need to do before your ear wax removal appointment.
The Facts About Ear Wax: Causes, Symptoms & Safe Removal
Experiencing slight hearing loss or discomfort? It could be due to ear wax build-up. While ear wax (cerumen) protects your ear canal and eardrum, excessive accumulation can lead to issues like blocked ears, ear discomfort, and tinnitus. At Bayfields Audiology, we offer gentle micro-suction removal, a safe and comfortable procedure to clear excess wax.