That’s why people turn to a lot of options on how to get rid of it. One of these approaches is ear candling. You may have already read, heard, or watched about it. But the questions remain unanswered—does it work? Is it safe?
What is ear candling?
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.
Is it safe?
Generally, ear candling is not a safe and healthy practice. Continue reading below to find out why.
1. It can cause injuries to the inner and outer ear.
Ear candling allows flame and hot wax to have direct contact with your ears and other bodily parts. This may cause serious injuries such as burns to your ear canal, eardrum, or even your face. More so, there’s a huge chance that the ears can get plugged by the dripping candle wax.
2. According to science, it doesn’t 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 candling. 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.
3. 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. It can be used to light the house on a dark night. It 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 it safely and professionally for you.
If you are having hearing problems due to ear candling, you may visit Listening Lab for a hearing test. Or sign up here to qualify for a free 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.
