Dangers of ear candling to remove ear wax

What is ear candling

​Ear candling, also referred to as ear coning, involves inserting a hollow candle made from fabric and wax into the ear canal and igniting the exposed end. It is believed that as the candle burns, a vacuum effect is created, drawing out earwax and impurities from the ear. This method appeals to many due to its simplicity and non-invasive approach, find out why the cons far out way the pros in this blog as we explore the dangers of ear candling to remove ear wax.

Do we need to remove ear wax

Lets not forget that we need our earwax to keep our ears healthy and unless causing medical issues it’s not something we need to clean or remove from our ears. Regardless of this people still regularly stick unwanted objects into their ears like cotton buds in an attempt to remove ear wax, we don’t recommend using cotton buds, heres why.

How does ear candling work

Ear candling starts by inserting a lit, hollow candle into the ear canal to generate a low-level vacuum, which is believed to aid in removing earwax and impurities. However, there is no scientific backing for its efficacy, and the practice carries serious risks, such as burns, blockages in the ear canal, and even damage to the eardrums. Expert audiologists advise against ear candling, as it can cause more harm than benefit.

5 Misconceptions of ear candling

Ear candling kits can be misleading. Its important to visit a qualified audiologist if you are experiencing any problems with your ears. Here are 5 common misconceptions about the practice of ear candling:
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1. Ears need regular cleaning to remove ear wax
2. Earwax is harmful
3. The vacuum created is strong enough to pull out ear wax
4. Ear wax appearing after candling, this residue is usually from the candle itself
5. Ear candling kits are tested, safe and regulated

What are the dangers of ear candling

​Major health organisations, including the NHS, have long cautioned against the dangers of ear candling. The potential risks include:
Perforated ear drum
The ear canal is sensitive, and putting a candle inside can cause injury. The warmth from the candle and the force applied while doing so can lead to a hole in the eardrum, resulting in discomfort and reduced hearing.
 
Risk of infection
Using ear candles can introduce bacteria into the ear canal. If the candle is not sterile or if the ear canal is not clean before the procedure, the risk of developing an ear infection increases significantly another reason this practice should be avoided.
 
Burns
A primary risk of using ear candles is the chance of getting burned. The heat from the candle's flame can quickly lead to injuries on the face, hair, and even more concerningly, the ear canal. The hot melted wax that falls off the candle can also result in considerable discomfort and harm if it gets into the ear.
 
Cause wax blockage
The ear candling process may actually push earwax further into the ear canal, potentially leading to more hearing problems or complications with ear health.
 
Even though some people claim this practice works, there's really no scientific proof that ear candling actually gets rid of earwax or has any health benefits. Research has found that ear candling doesn't create a strong enough micro suction to pull out the wax, so it's basically not doing anything.

Should cotton buds be used instead?

No! Using cotton buds to clean your ears is not recommended either, as they can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages and other hearing issues. Instead of resorting to cotton buds or ear candling, it's best to let your ears self-clean or consult a professional audiologist for safe earwax removal. For more information check out this blog on why you should never use cotton buds.

Conclusion

​Although ear candling may seem to be a good solution for removing ear wax, the dangers significantly surpass any perceived benefits. The possibility of getting burned, infections, and possibly enduring lasting harm to your ears makes this method far to dangerous. Putting your ear health first is crucial, and understanding the dangers of ear candling can assist you in making wiser decisions. Always choose practices backed by scientific evidence for your health and don't be afraid to ask an expert before using any online remedies. Your ears will appreciate it! Go back to our blog to read more on hearing health and the latest industry news.