What exactly is earwax?

Cerumen, or earwax, is a waxy substance that can be found in the ears. Earwax is produced by glands in your ear canal to protect you from germs. For information on Ear wax removal Taunton, visit www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/taunton

Image credit

What is earwax and what does it do?

Everyone has earwax in their ears. Earwax is produced by glands in the ear canals to protect your skin and keep germs out. The medical term for wax is “cerumen”.

What are the different types of earwax?

Two types of earwax are common: dry and wet. Your genetics will determine which type you have.

• Wet Earwax People with dominant variants usually have wet earwax. Most people with European or African ancestry have this condition.
• Dry Earwax People with recessive variants usually have flaky, dry earwax. Most people with East Asian ancestry have this type.

Function

Earwax serves many purposes. It can be used to:

• Act as a waterproof lining in your ear canal.
• Carry dead skin cells, debris and other materials out of your ears.
• Trap dirt, dust and debris.
• Stop the ears from drying up.
• Protect against fungal and bacterial infections.

Image credit

Where does earwax originate?

Earwax is produced by two types of glands located in the ear canal.

• The sebaceous glands are tiny glands that secrete an oily lubricating substance known as sebum. Sebum is a lubricant that keeps your skin hydrated and your ears from drying.
• Ceruminous Glands These glands have been modified to look like sweat glands. They secrete antimicrobial and peptide proteins to protect your ears.

What is the composition of earwax?

Earwax is mainly sebum, which is a combination of dead skin cells and hair with other substances.

• Long-chain fatty acid (saturated or unsaturated).
• Wax esters.
• Alcohol esters.