Ear candling is a popular alternative treatment in Singapore for removing earwax and is touted to have many potential benefits. While many may have heard of this practice, there are still questions surrounding its effectiveness and side effects. Here’s a breakdown to answer questions like how do ear candles work, is it safe, and whether they are good or bad for you.
What is Ear Candling and How Does it Work?
Ear candling is a therapeutic technique that involves lighting a candle above the outer ear. These candles are actually hallowed fabric cones soaked in wax or paraffin. It is believed to be helpful in removing earwax buildup. How is that so? There are two beliefs associated with this practice. First, according to practitioners, its flames create a suction that pulls the earwax out of the inner ear. Second, the heat produced by the flames softens the earwax, which would eventually have an easier way of falling out over the next few days.
Claimed Benefits of Ear Candling
Ear candling proponents claim several benefits from this practice. Among the most popular is the removal of earwax, which is believed to help maintain improved ear health. Additionally, many users report relief from sinus issues, such as congestion and pressure, following an ear candling session.
However, it’s important to note that medical experts emphasise that ears do clean themselves naturally, questioning the necessity and safety of such interventions. As you consider ear candling, weigh these claimed benefits against the advice of healthcare professionals.
The Reality: Does Ear Candling Actually Work?
If you’re still on the fence about this, take the hint from science. There’s no scientific basis for the effectiveness of ear candles. In fact, it can actually make things worse by pushing the earwax deeper into the ear canal.
Also, there are studies showing that the residue found after ear candling, which is supposed to be the pulled earwax, is actually just the candle wax. This goes to show that the practice is ineffective in doing its claim.
Is Ear Candling Safe? Side Effects and Risks
Generally, using ear candles is neither safe nor healthy. In fact, ear candling can actually cause damage to the inner and outer ear as it carries the risk of flames or hot wax coming into direct contact with your ears and other body parts. This can cause serious injuries such as burns to your ear canal, eardrum, or even your face. There is also the possibility that your ears can get plugged by the dripping candle wax.
Safer Alternatives to Ear Candling
For those seeking ear cleaning methods, safer alternatives to ear candling include:
- Ear Drops – Designed to soften and dissolve earwax for easy removal.
- Ear Irrigation – A gentle flushing technique using water to clear earwax buildup.
- Professional Ear Cleaning – Conducted by healthcare providers, ensuring safe and effective ear care.
Consider visiting an ear spa or using ear wicking techniques as additional options. These methods are generally recommended by professionals and pose fewer risks than ear candling.
Ear Candling in Singapore: A Local Perspective
In Singapore, many people still grapple with the question of how effective ear candling actually is, and the service is offered in numerous wellness centres and spas. However, this alternative therapy comes with its share of controversy. Local medical experts often warn against its use due to potential risks. Before exploring ear candling, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the safest and most effective treatment for your ear health.
Conclusion: Earwax is Actually Good for You
Believe it or not, the right amount of earwax is actually beneficial for you. It acts as a barrier where different substances like dirt, hair follicles, and other foreign particles stick to, so it won’t get into your inner ear. As they flake off naturally, they take along with them these unwanted substances. Moreover, did you know that it’s a great insect repellant? Insects aren’t fond of the earwax smell. More reason not to get rid of it if it’s not actually causing any harm!
Candles have always been a useful part of our daily lives. They can be used to light the house on a dark night. They can be used to set-up a romantic mood if you need to. Candles are also great in helping you relax after a long stressful day. But one thing that it shouldn’t be used for is cleaning your ears. Let’s just keep the candles at the dinner table, shall we? When your ears feel full of earwax, the best solution is to consult a doctor and have them cleaned safely and professionally for you.
If you are having hearing problems due to ear candling, you may visit the Listening Lab and sign up for a hearing test.
About The Listening Lab
Listening Lab is a home-grown company whose mission is to help our clients restore their hearing to enjoy the life that they desire. Experiencing hearing loss can be detrimental to one’s quality of life. Hence we commit to providing high-quality hearing solutions.
Our hearing solutions include hearing tests and treatment and prescribing hearing aids. Clients may come to get their hearing checked, and we will assess whether hearing aids are required.
If hearing aids are required, clients can choose from a variety of the best hearing aid brands we provide. Each of the products offers unique features that complement daily use and perform well in helping our clients enjoy the life that they desire.
