Earwax removal: professional cleaning near you
Clear and unobstructed hearing is a priceless gift that allows us to connect with the world around us. Yet, sometimes, something as tiny as earwax can disrupt this harmony. Discover the joy of clear, unobstructed hearing with our professional earwax removal services available at select Boots stores. Our expert technicians offer personalised ear cleaning solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal ear health and enhanced hearing clarity.
Updated: 21st May 2024
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If you're experiencing signs like hearing loss, ear discomfort, or a feeling of fullness in your ears, it may be time for professional ear cleaning. Our skilled professionals use advanced techniques to safely remove earwax buildup, restoring comfort and improving your hearing.
Please note that our earwax removal services are available at select locations. Contact us or book an appointment to learn more about our services and pricing
What is earwax?
Earwax is a natural and essential substance produced by our ear canals. It's a common occurrence and something that everyone has, playing a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of our ears.
Earwax is a complex mixture of substances, mainly consisting of dead skin cells, hair, and secretions from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands in the ear canal. These glands work in unison to produce a waxy, oily substance, known as earwax.
While it might seem like an inconvenience, earwax serves several important functions. One of its main roles is to act as a protective barrier for the delicate skin of the ear canal.
Let's explore into why earwax exists:
• Helps prevent water, and dust
• Lubricates the ear canal, making sure it doesn't become dry and itchy (essential for overall ear health).
• Traps debris and bacteria, preventing it from travelling deeper into the ear canal. Where it could potentially cause infections or damage.
Our ears naturally pushes out older earwax from the ear canal as new wax is produced. This self-cleaning mechanism helps maintain a healthy environment for the ear.
If you want to find out more about why we have earwax, our guide will get you up to speed in no time.
Why choose earwax removal with Boots Hearingcare?
How our earwax removal service works
Our earwax removal service at Boots follows a straightforward process to ensure effective and safe removal of excess earwax. Here's how it works:
What to do before your appointment
To ensure a comfortable and effective earwax removal procedure, follow these steps in the days leading up to your appointment:
Softening the earwax:
We recommend softening the earwax by using medicated olive oil drops in the affected ear once per day for five days before your appointment. This helps to loosen the wax and helps with easier removal during the procedure.
Important precautions:
Contact us if you experience specific conditions like a dry or irritable throat, poor head and neck control, diabetes, or if you're taking blood-thinning medication.
When to consult your GP:
If you have recent ear pain, ear infections, past ear surgeries, or other concerns, consult your GP before proceeding with earwax removal.
Earwax removal price
£60 earwax removal for both ears
• Ear health check
• Micro-suction ear wax removal treatment
• Free hearing health check
• Trained practitioners
• Conveniently located within Boots stores
Earwax colour: what does it mean?
The appearance of earwax can differ from person to person, but typically, it should fall within a spectrum ranging from yellow, orange to a light brown colour. If your earwax doesn't fall within this range, continue reading to explore potential underlying causes.
Understanding the colour of your earwax can provide valuable insights into your ear health. If you notice unusual colours or experience any discomfort, seeking professional guidance is recommended.
Should earwax be removed?
Your ears have the remarkable ability to self-clean, since they’re naturally designed to maintain ear hygiene. In most cases, there's no need to actively remove earwax. However, certain situations may arise where intervention becomes necessary.
What will happen if I don't have my earwax removed?
Excessive earwax build-up can lead to discomfort and various problems. Neglecting its removal could result in earache, muffled hearing, and even tinnitus (a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears). However, it's crucial to rule out other underlying conditions, such as ear infections or colds, before attempting earwax removal.
What will happen if I don't have my earwax removed?
The frequency of earwax removal varies from person to person. Some may require it infrequently, whilst others might need more regular attention. It's essential to monitor your ear health and seek professional guidance if you experience discomfort or notice changes in your hearing. Your audiologist can provide personalised advice on maintaining clear and healthy ears.
Different earwax removal techniques
These earwax removal techniques offer tailored solutions for different ear conditions and individual preferences. Consulting with a healthcare professional will help determine the most suitable method for your specific needs.
If you have any concerns or have noticed a change in your hearing, book a free hearing health check with one of our trained professionals, who will be happy to help.
How to clean earwax at home
Step 1: Regular Washing
The first step to maintaining ear hygiene is regular washing. Simply wash the external part of your ears with a gentle soap and warm water.
Step 2: Damp Washcloth
For a more thorough clean, use a damp washcloth to gently wipe the outer ear. Avoid inserting the washcloth into the ear canal to prevent pushing the wax deeper.
Step 3: Ear Irrigation Kit
If you experience earwax buildup, consider using an ear irrigation kit, available at most pharmacies. These kits typically include a bulb syringe and wax-softening drops.
Step 4: Wax Softeners and Preventers
Before using the irrigation kit, apply wax-softening drops as directed. This helps loosen the earwax, making it easier to remove during the irrigation process. Some kits also include wax preventers to discourage future buildup.
Important safety tips
Only attempt earwax removal at home if your symptoms are not urgent, and you haven't noticed any concerning issues like pain or changes in your hearing. Never insert objects like cotton swabs or hairpins into your ear canal. This can push the wax deeper and potentially cause harm.
Avoid the use of ear candles too, as this can result in injuries, burns, or even eardrum perforation.
Frequently asked questions