Is Ear Candling Safe? An Audiologist's Honest Assessment

Ear candling, also known as ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy, is an alternative practice claimed to remove earwax and other impurities from the ear canal. Proponents suggest it can treat a range of conditions, from simple earache and sinus infections to improving cognitive function. However, the scientific and medical communities, including audiologists at our private clinic in High Wycombe, strongly advise against this procedure due to a lack of proven benefits and significant potential for harm.

The procedure involves placing a hollow, cone-shaped candle, typically made of fabric soaked in beeswax or paraffin, into the ear canal. The other end is lit, and the practitioner holds the candle in place for several minutes. The theory behind it is twofold:

• The Chimney Effect: One claim is that the burning candle creates a vacuum or negative pressure, which draws earwax, debris, and even bacteria out of the ear canal.
• Melting and Loosening: Another theory suggests the heat from the candle melts and softens the earwax, which then falls out naturally over the following days.

Despite these claims, extensive research has debunked both theories. Let's look at the evidence.

Independent scientific studies have consistently shown that ear candling is ineffective for earwax removal. Research published in medical journals has demonstrated the following:

A 1996 study published in the journal *Laryngoscope* found that ear candling produced no negative pressure in the ear canal and failed to remove any earwax. In fact, the study found that candle wax was often deposited *into* the ear.

Furthermore, another study measured the temperature inside the ear canal during the procedure and found it did not reach a high enough temperature to melt earwax. The substance often found inside the hollowed-out candle after the procedure is not earwax, but rather a mixture of burnt candle wax and fabric ash.

As a leading private audiology clinic in Loudwater, we have a duty of care to inform the public about the significant risks associated with ear candling. These are not minor side effects; they can be serious and cause permanent damage. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to consumers and healthcare providers about the dangers of ear candles.

From a clinical standpoint, there is no evidence to support the use of ear candling for any condition. At our Buckinghamshire hearing clinic, we see patients who have unfortunately experienced the negative consequences of these treatments. It is a common misconception that because something is marketed as 'natural', it is inherently safe. This is not the case with ear candling.

The ear is a self-cleaning organ. The skin in the ear canal migrates outwards, naturally carrying earwax with it. For most people, this process works effectively, and no intervention is needed. When earwax does become impacted, it requires professional removal by a trained audiologist or ENT specialist. We use safe, evidence-based methods like microsuction to gently and effectively remove blockages.

If you are concerned about earwax buildup, it is crucial to seek professional advice. Avoid using cotton buds, hairpins, or any other objects in your ears, as these can push wax further in and cause injury. Safe management of earwax includes:

• Professional Removal: The gold standard for removing impacted earwax is microsuction, performed by an audiologist.
• Medical-Grade Softening Drops: In some cases, an audiologist may recommend using olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops to soften the wax before removal.
• Regular Check-ups: If you are prone to wax buildup, regular appointments at our High Wycombe clinic can help manage the issue proactively.