Everyone has earwax—it's normal, natural, and necessary. ​ ​Earwax is produced by glands in the ear canal to protect and lubricate your ears. It traps dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. It also plays a crucial role in cleaning the ear by helping to remove dead skin cells and other debris. ​ However, excessive earwax buildup can lead to discomfort and hearing issues - For common symptoms, see the next Q&A. ​ Interestingly, some people may not experience any symptoms at all—these individuals are considered asymptomatic. Even without noticeable issues, it's still important to address earwax buildup. Sometimes, it only becomes apparent during an ear examination for another reason, and removing the excess wax allows the eardrum to be fully seen and assessed. This is crucial for accurate diagnosis and further investigation.

Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear​​ Ear pain Gradually (or suddenly) blocked ears Blocked or muffled after a shower ​Itching or irritation ​​ Slight (or not so slight) hearing loss Muffled hearing ​​​Tinnitus (ringing sensation in ears) Vertigo or balance issues​​​​ ​ It could just be wax! You might not have experienced any symptoms but been told by your GP (or a healthcare professional) that you have earwax which needs removing. In which case, we can still help.

The method of earwax removal we choose will depend on several factors, including (but not limited to) your past medical history. Some methods may not be suitable for you for clinical safety reasons. For example, if you’ve ever had a perforated eardrum, we wouldn’t use irrigation, but we could opt for microsuction or manual tools instead. We offer three main methods of earwax removal: Microsuction: This uses a small suction device to gently and effectively remove wax. (See FAQ: “What is Microsuction?” for more details.) Irrigation: A controlled stream of water is used to flush out the wax. (See FAQ: “What is Irrigation?” for more details.) Manual instruments: Specialised tools can be used to carefully manipulate and remove tricky pieces of wax. If a particular method isn’t appropriate from a clinical safety standpoint, it will be ruled out. For the remaining options, each method has its pros and cons. Deciding on the best approach will involve a thorough assessment, a discussion with you, and an informed clinical decision to determine the safest and most effective method, or combination of methods. We are committed to ensuring you are fully informed and involved in the decision-making process. While all these procedures are extremely safe, they are medical procedures and carry some risks. Please refer to our FAQs for more information on the specifics of each method.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT: Preparation: Apply olive oil drops to affected ear(s) for 2-3 days prior to appointment if necessary. See FAQ's on how and when to apply it. ​​We will provide you with a consent and risks information document for you to read through. Call or jot down any questions you may have and we will be more than happy to answer before we carry out the earwax removal procedure. DURING YOUR APPOINTMENT: We'll take a short history of your symptoms/concerns. ​We'll go through the risks, benefit and consent. We'll briefly demonstrate our equipment and technique. We then take before photos and videos of your ear canals. Then it's on to the main event - EARWAX REMOVAL; this will be either by microsuction, irrigation, manual instruments or a combination of all. After the wax has been removed, we check the health of your ear and finish with after photos and videos of your ear canal/s and eardrum/s. In most cases we will be able to fully clear your ears in one visit. However, sometimes for a number of reasons including if the wax it too impacted (hard) or too deep, we may need to return for a second visit after you have applied more ear drops. We will advice which to use on the day. AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT: Aftercare is as important as preparation: It is very important to keep ears dry for a minimum of 48 hours after the procedure (or 5-7 days after irrigation) to reduce risk of infection. ​​Occasionally we will ask for specialist advice from audiologists/ENT consultants as a second opinion if we have any concerns about the health of your ear. If this is the case we will discuss this with you and will pass their findings on to you in an email a few days after your appointment. ​​ ​If you have any concerns after your appointment please get in touch or speak to you local pharmacy or GP.

Excessive earwax can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Even without symptoms, it may still cause a blockage that obstructs the view of the eardrum, preventing important examinations from being conducted. Removing earwax is essential not only for symptom relief but also for accurate diagnosis. If earwax isn’t the cause of your symptoms, it’s crucial to remove it to rule out other potential issues. A clear view of the eardrum is necessary for further assessment. ​ An ear fully blocked by wax may also affect hearing which can be very difficult for the person experiencing hearing loss but also those around, in addition to other problems such as reducing the effectiveness of hearing aids, making proper earwax management vital for maintaining optimal hearing health. The impact of hearing loss can lead to social isolation, lower quality of life and increased risks of falls and dementia which is why keeping on top of ear health is so important. Removing excessive and problematic earwax is a key part of that, yet for many, accessing clinic-based services can be a struggle which is why we have focused on building an affordable mobile earwax removal service to help bridge that gap. ​Removal of excessive earwax can be a great relief, improve hearing, slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life for your residents.

Many factors can contribute to an excessive earwax buildup, and it may be surprising to see the range of people that can be affected, some of which are listed here: Some people naturally produce more earwax, which can accumulate over time Lots of hair in your ear canals (we're meant to have some hairs in our ear canals, just some have more than others!) Age can also be a factor as earwax tends to become drier and harder, making it more difficult for it to naturally move out of the ear Wearing hearing aids, earplugs or ear pieces frequently can prevent earwax from exiting the ear, contributing to wax buildup or even compacted/impacted wax Inflammation or infection of your ear canal (otitis externa or "swimmer's ear") Certain medical conditions, such as eczema or narrow ear canals, can also increase the likelihood of excessive wax accumulation Using objects like cotton buds, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages or compacted wax Certain professions can also increase the risk of excessive earwax buildup. For instance, individuals who work in environments with high levels of dust, dirt, or debris—such as construction workers, miners, or factory workers Similarly, people who frequently use ear protection or headphones, like musicians or industrial workers, may find that these devices can trap earwax, preventing it from naturally exiting the ear canal. This can lead to a buildup over time if not managed properly

Typically between 30-60 minutes.

Just yourself! We bring everything we need for the appointment. Ideally there will be a couple of chairs available for us to use, but we are used to working in many different environments and adapting when needed.

In some cases, yes. If you are on anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication, we recommend using olive oil drops or spray for at least 3 days before your appointment to soften the wax and make removal more comfortable. For others, it is less crucial. If your wax has been building up for a long time, it may already be dry and hard. While harder wax can sometimes be easier to remove with microsuction, some people may find the process more comfortable if the wax is softened first and for other methods it can be better to have softer wax. If unsure, we generally recommend applying olive oil twice daily for at least 3 days before your appointment. Important: Do not use olive oil if you have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum unless directed by your GP or healthcare professional. We recommend using the spray as it is easier to apply, but both options will work. Olive oil can be bought in any supermarket or pharmacy. Please click here for guidance on how to apply it: https://youtu.be/PNt2OgRX2eU?si=ZVVOnrE3kUx17Qh6 Other preparation? We will email a Risks and Consent form and a brief medical history form to the address used for booking. Please take 5–10 minutes to read them carefully to understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. If you’re happy to proceed, complete and sign the form at the start of your appointment. Reading it in advance will speed up the process and allow you to prepare any questions, which we’ll be happy to answer before or on the day.

If you are on anticoagulants (blood thinning medication) then yes, ideally twice daily for 3 days to help make it more comfortable for you as the olive oil softens the wax. However, as mentioned in the previous FAQ, this is not always necessary and we are happy to do same day appointments even if you have not had a chance to olive oil. But please remember: Do not use olive oil if you have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum unless directed by your GP or healthcare professional.

Microsuction is safe, effective and one of the NICE-recommended method for earwax removal. Unlike traditional irrigation (syringing) which uses water and may be contraindicated (not advised as a course of treatment) for some people due to its associated risks, microsuction is a dry technique which in essence gently “hoovers” the earwax out of the canal via a gentle tiny suction device using a specialist microscope (endoscope) for precision, reducing the risk of damage to the ear canal or eardrum. ​ We take before-and-after images and videos of the procedure which we will happily show you (if you're so inclined!) and can provide a detailed report to pass onto your GP if required. (See More FAQ's below for risks of microsuction)

No, it shouldn't be painful, but it can feel a little bit strange having something in your ear. If the wax is very hard/old, and not softened well, it may feel a little uncomfortable as we move it but preparation with olive oil is key to reducing this. If you do find it painful, it may be pressing on a nerve in your ear canal - everyone has nerves sitting in slightly different places. If it's uncomfortable, let us know and we'll adjust our position.

Whilst this is the safest earwax removal procedure, as recommended by NICE, it is still a procedure nonetheless and carries a few risks which we have outlined here: Partial Removal: Sometimes we are unable to remove all of the wax in one appointment and need to arrange a follow up appointment to complete the procedure. This is usually due to harder/deeper wax that needs to be softened more prior to safe removal, but please be assured that this will be free if required. Cough/tickle in throat: Everybody’s nerves sit differently in the ear canal. You may find that you develop a cough or feel a tickle in your throat during the procedure. As soon as the procedure is over (and we are no longer touching your ear) this will stop. Effects from the noise: The suction equipment emits noise that may result in short lived hearing loss, referred to as a temporary threshold shift. If you suffer with tinnitus there is a chance it may exacerbate your symptoms for a short period afterwards, before subsiding and returning to your normal. There is a very rare possibility of causing tinnitus, aggravating pre-existing tinnitus, or leading to irreversible hearing impairment. Dizziness: As microsuction deals with the ear, the procedure can cause temporary dizziness but usually but this usually only lasts a short while. Minor trauma to the ear canal: There is a very small risk that some minor trauma (very small cuts or abrasions from where the wax has adhered to the very thin skin in the ear canal and has come away with it as the wax is removed) may occur. In extremely rare cases the eardrum can perforate. Infection: There is a small risk of infection after microsuction, usually caused when the ear canal subsequently comes into contact with water (which can contain bacteria) which is why following our aftercare guidance of keeping the ears completely dry for 48hours afterwards is so important.

Irrigation, formerly known as ear syringing, is a medical procedure used to remove excess or impacted earwax from the ear canal. It involves introducing a controlled stream of warm (body temperature) water into the ear canal to flush out softened earwax (as opposed to microsuction which is a dry technique and suctions or "hoovers" the earwax out). Irrigation is carried out using a specialised machine that maintains the correct pressure to avoid damaging the ear. Irrigation is not suitable for everyone. For example, individuals with a history of perforated eardrums, ear infections, or certain ear surgeries may need alternative methods like microsuction or manual removal. This will all be discussed at your appointment.

Irrigation is generally painless although some people may find it slightly uncomfortable, or experience an odd sensation. Some may feel a temporary sensation of dizziness which should self-resolve once the procedure has stopped.

As mentioned, any procedure no matter how safe does carry some risks, here are the main ones outlined: Pain or Discomfort: If the procedure is not done correctly or if there are pre-existing conditions like a sensitive ear canal. Infection: Introducing water into the ear can, in rare cases, lead to otitis externa (outer ear infection). Ear Canal Damage: This can occur due to inappropriate technique or excessive water pressure. Perforation of the Eardrum: A small risk, especially if the tympanic membrane is weakened or there are contraindications. Vertigo or Dizziness: Caused by water temperature changes or pressure effects during the procedure. Temporary Hearing Loss: Due to residual water or incomplete removal of wax. Irrigation is unsuitable for patients who have experienced complications with irrigation in the past, those with a history of middle ear infections, particularly in the last 6 weeks, have undergone any ear surgeries (other than grommets if it's been over 18 months since removal and there'e clear written documentation that the eardrum has healed fully), eardrum perforations, or certain structural ear conditions (e.g. mastoid cavities or cleft palate). It’s also avoided for those with an active ear infection or discharge in the past year and in cases of unhealed injuries to the eardrum.

In most cases we will be able to remove all of the wax in a single appointment. On occasion, we may need to ask you to apply more olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops to break up the wax which may have been sitting behind the initial outer softened layer. If you need a second appointment, this is included in the price and we will arrange a convenient time to return. In very rare cases, it may not be possible to remove 100% of the wax. This could be for a number of reasons and we will use our clinical judgement to determine if this is the case and explain to you fully why this is the case with suggested next steps.

It means you won't need earwax removal! You won't be charged the full price. Instead we charge a £35 assessment fee which covers our costs. If you feel your hearing has gradually declined, or you are symptomatic, you can confidently book an appointment with your GP knowing your ears are clear of wax and able to be assessed. We can also carry out a basic hearing test if we feel it would be beneficial.

We can provide you with a report detailing our findings with images and videos which you can take to your GP for follow up. In the meantime, we can also escalate any findings to an audiologist or ENT consultant to review for a second opinion and/or advice which we would pass on to you. (Please be assured the escalation is anonymous - only images and videos of your ear canal would be sent with your consent but none of your personal identifiable details would be shared).

Currently we only treat 18 years+

We only offer this service as a private treatment. It is not a service we can offer through the NHS. Typically a GP practice will offer irrigation, if they offer the service at all. Microsuction is not routinely offered by GP practices. Unfortunately NHS provisions have been cut over the years and many GP practices now no longer offer earwax removal services. Whether your practice will offer it or not will depend on where you live, and/or possibly eligibility. For those that do offer a service, there are often long waiting times. Here at The Earwax Ladies we are trying to bridge this gap.

Everyone is busy. Earwax is wonderful stuff but in excess can be a pain - as can finding the time to get it removed. It's something that needs doing but (for some) it's not something we look forward to or particularly want to spend our time doing. Our aim is to try and remove some of the hassle by making our appointments slot into your schedule. No drama, no fuss, just simple earwax removal. Convenience is key. We will come to your home, or workplace (if there's space and privacy to carry out the procedure) at a time which works for you. We will remove your earwax (and provide before & after images/videos if that's your thing). We pride ourselves on being reliable, professional and competitively priced.

We are always looking to improve our service and hear how we're doing, whether it be suggestions, general feedback or even compliments! Should you wish you share any of the above, you can do this by either sharing your suggestions directly with us, filling in our Complaints, Suggestions and Compliments form or submitting your suggestions in writing via email at hello@earwaxladies.co.uk We acknowledge, consider and appreciate all suggestions, feedback and compliments.

We are committed to providing the best quality care and service. However, we recognise that sometimes our service may not meet your expectations, and we welcome the chance to hear your concerns and put things right. Here’s what you can expect from us: We’ll Listen: We’ll take the time to understand your concerns fully. We Respond: Together, we’ll create a clear and appropriate action plan while offering support and guidance. We’ll Improve: We’re always keen to learn and improve our service wherever possible. Here’s our process if you have a complaint or concern: Chat With Us First We encourage you to speak directly with the team member who assisted you. Most concerns can be sorted quickly this way. Make a Formal Complaint If you'd rather not discuss it informally or the issue hasn't been resolved, simply ask us for a Complaint Form or let us know if you'd like help filling it out. A family member or trusted friend can raise the complaint on your behalf if you prefer. If it involves personal information, we’ll just need your written consent. If you’re still not satisfied, we’ll guide you on how to escalate your complaint further. We’re here to listen, learn, and improve - your feedback is valuable and we take all feedback very seriously so please be assured we are here to make the process as smooth, fair, and straightforward as possible.

Drop us an email at hello@earwaxladies.co.uk CAREHOMES: Please use: info@earwaxladies.co.uk or Call, text or whatsapp on 07453 695 136 We will do our best to answer your questions.