WHAT IS EARWAX?

Earwax is a substance that can be found in the ear canals of humans and other mammals. Medically it’s referred to as cerumen and consists of dead skin, hair and water-soluble secretions from the outer ear canal. It serves several functions – one of which is as an antibacterial, self-cleaning lubricant. Excess cerumen usually finds its way out of the ear canal through the washing of hair and jaw movement. Occasionally it can collect and become compacted, which can lead to tinnitus and slight hearing loss.