When it comes to personal hygiene and health, everyone has their own routine — and that includes how they care for their ears. Ear wax, or cerumen, is often misunderstood, leading many people to wonder: Should I remove it? Leave it? Clean it daily? Never touch it?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key is to understand how ear wax works and to choose a care method that’s both comfortable and convenient for your lifestyle — while keeping your ears healthy and protected.
Before you decide how to handle it, it helps to know what ear wax does. Despite the stigma, ear wax is actually beneficial:
Most people don’t need to clean their ears at all. But if you do feel the need, it’s important to do it safely and in a way that works best for you.