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Ear Wax Removal Methods

There are tried and tested methods how to remove ear wax from an ear and there are a number of alternative methods (some good and some bad and some possibly dangerous too).


Excessive ear wax can cause pain, tinnitus, infection and hearing loss through blockage. A one minute otoscopic examination (looking down your ears with a magnifying lens and light) will identify if earwax is causing any of these problems. We can then remove ear wax for you immediately by micro suction ear wax removal.


Traditionally, a GP will refer you to a nurse who will carry out a syringing treatment. This involves a jet of warm water that should loosen the wax and backwash it out. The GP/nurse will stipulate that you must put oil into the ears morning and night for up to two months to soften it first. In some cases it can take a number of visits especially with impacted wax.


Ear Care professionals will more often than not recommend micro suction above all else due to it being the safest, most effective, quickest and most comfortable method of removing ear wax. Micro suction should always be conducted by a qualified and experienced professional. Let's take a look at the different methods.

Microsuction Earwax Removal

Microsuction earwax removal is undertaken using a microscope, loupes or endoscope and a medical suction device. A wand-type extension is fitted to the end of the suction tube which allows the professional to gently remove the ear wax from your canal.

Why is microsuction best?

Microsuction is the safest and most comfortable method of earwax removal, no liquids are used during the procedure. Which means that there is no fuss or mess during the procedure. The fact that we can clearly see the ear canal and more importantly exactly what we are doing, makes it an exceptionally safe procedure. It is an especially comfortable process and it is usually undertaken in a few minutes making it a same day service.

Irrigation Earwax Removal

Most clinics will also use the irrigation method of earwax removal for people who are more comfortable with it and for certain situations. The procedure is undertaken with a spray type ear wash machine, which is commonly used in the medical setting. The irrigation solution is carefully warmed to body temperature for comfort. Then the professional uses the spray type ear washer to gently stream water into the ear canal. The procedure is simple, the professional pulls the external ear up and back gently and aim the nozzle of the sprayer slightly upwards and backwards so that the water flows along the roof of the ear canal. The irrigation solution flows out of the canal along its floor taking wax and debris with it. This many take the form of a manual or an electronic method and both have their own merits

Syringing Earwax Removal

Ear syringing is an old out-of-date method of removing earwax. If you have a bad experience with syringing in the past you can be assured that microsuction and irrigation are much more comfortable. It's extremely rare to find this method being used anymore.

Hopi Ear Candles

The American Academy of Otolarynology states that ear candles are not a safe option for removing ear wax and that no controlled studies or scientific evidence support their use for ear wax removal. The Food and Drug Administration has successfully taken several regulatory actions against the sale and distribution of ear candles since 1996, including seizing ear candle products and ordering injunctions! American Academy of Otolaryngology.