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Posted by on Mar 10, 2015 in TellMeWhy |

What Is the Purpose of Wax in Our Ears?

What Is the Purpose of Wax in Our Ears?

What is the purpose of wax in our ears?The soft, brownish, waxy substance found in the ear canal protects the inner ear from foreign bodies. The earwax, known as “serumen” (suh ROO mun), is produced by glands in the skin of the ear canal.

Earwax has several important jobs. First, it protects and moisturizes the skin of ear canal, preventing dry, itchy ears. Second, it contains special chemicals that fight off infections that could hurt the skin inside the ear canal. Finally, it acts as a shield between the outside world and the eardrum.

When particles of dirt and dust enter the ear, they are trapped by the sticky serumen before they can pass through the ear canal and damage the eardrum. The waxy substance is gradually worked outward.

This is due to the movement of the jaw joint, which presses upon the canal. The earwax dries in the form of scales, and then passes out of the ear; it either falls out or is removed when you wash. So now you know what is the purpose of wax in our ears.

Should you remove ear wax? Ear wax is a natural substance produced by glands in the skin of the outer ear canal. The wax acts as a helpful coating for the ear canal so removal of it is not necessary. However, in cases of blockage or excessive buildup, it may be necessary to try to remove the impacted or excessive wax.

Content for this question contributed by Scott Reed, resident of Sheridan, Sheridan County, Wyoming, USA