Many people still reach for the cotton swabs when it comes time to clean their ears. However, cotton swabs can actually push earwax deeper into the ear canal, causing greater buildup and risking damage to the eardrum and lining of the ear canal.

Pushing earwax deeper into the ear canal can cause damage, dizziness, and balance problems. When earwax is blocking the ear, it may result in ringing or fullness, ear pain, itching, discharge, odor and could even cause a cough. Swabs also may tear or rupture the eardrum causing pain, bleeding and permanent hearing loss.

Cotton swabs can be a risk for children, too. Each year, about 12,500 children under the age of 18 are treated in US emergency departments for ear injuries related to cotton swabs*. (CNN source)

A safer alternative to remove ear wax is Debrox. Debrox® is the #1 Doctor & Pharmacist recommended brand for earwax removal. Its gentle, non-irritating microfoam cleansing action goes to work to soften and remove earwax as it cleans the ear. Used twice a day for up to four days if needed, Debrox® safely and effectively removes ear wax in the comfort of your own home.

Sources:

American Academy of Pediatrics: https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/10934/Hear-this-Cotton-tipped-swabs-are-not-made-for

From John Hopkins Hospital: https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/ACH-News/General-News/Using-Cotton-Swabs-in-Children-s-Ears

CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2017/05/11/health/ear-cleaning-cotton-swab-injury-study/index.html

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-mistakes-even-healthy-people-make#:~:text=Using%20a%20Cotton%20Swab%20in%20Your%20Ear&text=You%20may%20end%20up%20pushing,That%20can%20cause%20hearing%20loss.