Ear candling: is it safe?

Ear candling, also known as ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy, is a traditional method with ancient origins for ear hygiene. It involves the use of specially designed hollow fabric cones, typically around 10 inches long, soaked in substances like paraffin or beeswax. These cones are inserted into the ear canal and lit at the opposite end, creating a chimney effect. The claimed purpose of ear candling is to remove impurities and excess earwax from the ear canal.

However, it's essential to note that the effectiveness of ear candling is widely debated and considered dubious by medical experts. The natural mechanisms of the ear generally expel earwax, and using ear candles is not a proven or reliable method for ear hygiene. Let's explore the details and concerns regarding ear candling.

Earwax, a yellowish substance with a protective function, is typically pushed outwards from the ear canal by the body's natural processes. In certain situations, such as small ear canals, excessive earwax production, or attempts at mechanical cleaning (e.g., cotton swabs), earwax can accumulate, leading to hearing issues and a sensation of a blocked ear.

Ear candles, when used for ear cleaning, are intended to remove earwax through a suction-like process created by the heat generated by the burning candle. The narrower end of the candle, equipped with a protective disc, is inserted into the ear canal, while the wider end is lit. As the candle burns, it is believed to soften the earwax and create a vacuum, drawing the wax outward.

However, the effectiveness of ear candles in cleaning ears is questionable. Medical experts raise concerns about this method, primarily because the exact cleaning mechanism remains unclear. Additionally, there are potential risks associated with ear candling, such as wax residue being deposited in the ear canal or even on the eardrum. There is also a risk of burns to the skin around the ear and hair.

According to healthcare professionals, a more reliable and safer approach to ear cleaning involves using lukewarm water or specialized earwax removal products. If earwax plugs are causing issues, it is recommended to consult a hearing specialist for proper and safe removal.

The purported mechanism of ear candles involves heat generated by the burning candle, which is believed to soften earwax, facilitating its removal. However, studies have shown that ear candling does not create the necessary vacuum or negative pressure required to draw out earwax effectively.

Ear wax candles can be problematic due to the following reasons:

• Lack of Scientific Evidence: There is no scientific evidence to support the claimed benefits of ear candling. The procedure's effectiveness in removing earwax and addressing various ear-related issues is unproven.
• Safety Concerns: Ear candling poses potential safety risks, including burns, fire hazards, ear canal blockages, eardrum damage, and hearing loss.
• Ineffectiveness: Studies have shown that ear candling does not create the necessary suction to remove earwax effectively. Instead, it may deposit wax and debris in the ear canal.
• Alternative and Safer Methods: Safer and more effective methods for ear cleaning and earwax removal, such as using over-the-counter ear drops or seeking medical assistance, are available.

In summary, ear candling is generally considered an unsafe and ineffective method for earwax removal and ear hygiene, and it may pose risks to your health and hearing.

Using ear candles is not recommended due to safety concerns. If you choose to use ear candles despite the risks, it is crucial to follow safety precautions carefully. Always have someone you trust assist you to prevent accidents or injuries.

Instructions for using ear candles (if chosen to use):

1. Lie on your side with the ear to be treated facing upward.
2. Insert the ear candle vertically into the ear canal with a twisting motion to create a seal.
3. Use a damp towel to catch any falling ashes around the ear.
4. Light the wider end of the ear candle.
5. Allow the ear candle to burn down completely. It should extinguish on its own.

Ear candling is not considered safe and is not endorsed by medical professionals or regulatory agencies. The practice poses various risks, including burns, eardrum perforation, and hearing loss. The FDA has issued warnings against using ear candles for any medical purposes.

You can purchase ear candles at various locations, including your local chemist warehouse, Woolworths, or Mythbusters. The candling ear wax kit includes:

1. Ear candles: These are hollow tubes typically made from linen or cotton soaked in beeswax or paraffin. The ear candle is inserted into the ear canal and lit at the opposite end.
2. Protective disc: Some kits include a small protective disc made of foil or paper to prevent any dripping wax or ash from reaching the ear during the candling process.
3. Instructions: Detailed instructions on how to use the ear candles safely and effectively are typically included in the kit. These instructions may also provide guidance on precautions, such as not attempting ear candling alone and ensuring proper ventilation during the process.
4. Safety tips: Some kits may include additional safety tips or guidelines for a successful ear candling experience, such as keeping long hair tied back, using a helper to assist with the process, and extinguishing the candle safely after use.
5. Aftercare recommendations: Aftercare instructions may be provided to guide users on what to do following the ear candling process, such as cleaning the ears gently with a damp cloth or using eardrops to soften any remaining wax.

Irrespective of the chosen method for earwax removal, it's imperative to steer clear of cotton buds. Despite their apparent convenience for ear cleaning, they often push wax further into the ear canal, leading to impaction. Additionally, they can potentially damage the delicate structures of the ear, resulting in hearing loss or other complications.