Ear wax is a normal substance that protects the skin inside the ear, helping to trap dust and reduce irritation. Usually, it moves naturally towards the opening of the ear and does not need to be removed. However, wax can sometimes build up and become hard or impacted. This may cause a blocked sensation, reduced hearing, ringing in the ear, itching or discomfort.

When ear wax is affecting your hearing or comfort, professional removal can provide safe and effective relief. At Barnes Pharmacy, the service begins with an assessment to make sure removal is appropriate and to identify any signs that may need further medical attention.

Before your appointment

When booking, you may be asked about your symptoms, medical history and any previous problems with your ears. It is important to mention if you have had ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, ear infections, grommets or other ear conditions. Tell the practitioner about pain, discharge, dizziness or sudden hearing loss, as these symptoms may require assessment by another healthcare professional before wax removal is considered.

You may be advised to use ear drops for a few days before your appointment. These drops can soften the wax and make removal easier, but you should follow the advice provided by the pharmacy or another healthcare professional. Do not use ear drops if you have been told that you have a perforated eardrum, unless a suitable clinician has specifically recommended them.

Avoid putting cotton buds, hairpins, keys or other objects into your ears. These can push wax further into the ear canal, scratch the delicate skin or damage the eardrum. Ear candles are not a safe or reliable method of wax removal and should not be used.

What happens during the assessment?

The practitioner will usually ask about your symptoms and examine your ears using an otoscope or another suitable viewing device. This allows them to look at the ear canal and, where possible, the eardrum. The assessment helps determine whether wax is present and which removal method is most appropriate.

Professional removal may involve microsuction, manual instrument removal or irrigation. The method used depends on the amount and consistency of the wax, the shape of your ear canal and your medical history. Not every method is suitable for every person. If removal is not safe or cannot be completed, you may be advised to seek further medical assessment.

Microsuction and manual removal

Microsuction uses a small suction device to remove wax while the practitioner views the ear canal. It does not involve flushing water into the ear. You may hear a loud buzzing or suction sound, and the procedure can feel unusual, but it should not be painful. The practitioner may also use small instruments to lift or remove wax under direct vision.

Some people notice a brief cough, tickling sensation or momentary dizziness during ear procedures. This can happen because the ear canal shares nerve connections with other parts of the body. Tell the practitioner immediately if you feel pain, significant dizziness or discomfort. They can pause, reassess the ear and decide whether it is appropriate to continue.

Irrigation, where appropriate

Electronic ear irrigation uses a controlled flow of water to loosen and wash wax from the ear canal. It may be suitable for some people, but it is not appropriate when there is a known or suspected perforated eardrum, certain types of ear surgery, active infection or other risk factors. The practitioner will assess your ears and medical history before recommending this method.

You may feel pressure, warmth or movement in the ear during irrigation. The water should be at a suitable temperature and delivered in a controlled way. If you experience pain, marked dizziness or feel unwell, tell the practitioner straight away.

How long does ear wax removal take?

The appointment length depends on how much wax is present, whether it has been softened and which technique is used. Some ears can be cleared during one appointment, while hard or extensive build-up may require further softening and another appointment. It is not always possible to remove every piece of wax safely in one session.

Hearing may improve immediately once the blockage has been removed, although your ears may feel slightly sensitive or unusual for a short time. If hearing remains reduced, or if symptoms were not caused by wax, you may need further assessment by your GP, audiologist or another appropriate healthcare professional.

Aftercare following ear wax removal

For most people, normal activities can be resumed after the appointment. Follow any individual advice given by the practitioner. Your ear canal may feel mildly tender, itchy or sensitive for a short period, particularly if the wax was firmly impacted or the skin was irritated.

  • Do not insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal.
  • Keep the ears dry if you have been advised to do so, particularly after irrigation or if the ear canal is irritated.
  • Do not use additional ear drops unless they have been recommended for you.
  • Avoid scratching inside the ear, even if it feels itchy.
  • Seek advice before swimming if you have pain, discharge, a history of eardrum perforation or recent ear surgery.

Wax can build up again because of the natural shape of the ear canal, the use of hearing aids or earplugs, skin conditions, or attempts to clean inside the ear. The outer ear can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth, but the ear canal usually cleans itself. If you regularly experience troublesome wax, ask a healthcare professional whether a suitable prevention plan is appropriate.

When to seek medical advice

Ear wax removal should not be used to explain away symptoms that may have another cause. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you develop severe or persistent pain, bleeding, fluid or pus from the ear, fever, worsening dizziness, facial weakness or sudden hearing loss. You should also seek advice if symptoms continue after wax has been removed.

Professional ear wax removal is designed to make the process safer than trying to remove impacted wax yourself. A careful assessment, suitable technique and sensible aftercare can help protect the ear and give you confidence about what to expect.

Book professional ear wax removal

If blocked ears or reduced hearing may be due to wax, you can book professional ear wax removal at Barnes Pharmacy. Our team can assess your ears and explain the most suitable next step.