What is ear wax?
Ear wax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by specialised glands in the skin of the outer part of the ear canal. Its primary function is to safeguard the ear from potential damage and infections.
This waxy material is generated in the outer region of the ear canal, near its external opening, as opposed to the deeper areas closer to the eardrum. Typically, a small quantity of ear wax accumulates over time, eventually drying up and naturally shedding from the ear canal, carrying away unwanted dust and particles such as sand.
Ear wax serves the purpose of coating the skin within the ear canal, providing a temporary water-repellent barrier. Its absence can lead to dry, itchy ears and may even result in infections.
In most cases, the ear canals are self-cleaning; old ear wax continuously migrates from the deeper parts of the ear canal towards the opening, where it typically dries, flakes off, and eventually falls out.
Colour of ear wax
Dark brown: Ear wax that appears dark brown or black in colour is typically older, and its hue is a result of the accumulated dirt and bacteria it has trapped. This type of earwax is more commonly found in adults.
Light brown, orange, or yellow: Considered healthy and normal. Children often have softer, lighter-coloured ear wax, which falls within the spectrum of typical ear wax colours.
White & flaky ear wax: The presence of white, flaky ear wax can indicate a deficiency in the chemical associated with body odour.
Red or Dark Red: Can indicate a bleeding injury
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