Aftercare Advise

Earwax Removal Aftercare Instructions

Keeping Your Ears Healthy After Your Procedure Thank you for choosing our clinic for your earwax removal treatment. Now that your ears have been professionally cleaned, it’s important to follow the aftercare guidance below to protect your ears and reduce the risk of infection. After earwax removal, the ear canal is more exposed and sensitive because the natural protective wax layer has been reduced. This means that for the first 24–72 hours, your ears are more vulnerable, and proper aftercare is essential. 

Why Aftercare Matters Earwax naturally protects your ears by: 

  • Preventing bacteria from entering the ear canal
  • Maintaining the right moisture balance
  • Reducing irritation
  • Keeping dust and debris out

Once the wax is removed, your ears temporarily lose this layer of protection. This can make it easier for bacteria or moisture to cause irritation or infection if aftercare steps aren’t followed. 

How to Care for Your Ears After Wax Removal1. Keep Your Ears Dry This is the most important part of aftercare. 

  • Avoid swimming for at least 48 hours
  • Be careful when showering or washing your hair
  • Use a cotton wool plug (lightly coated in petroleum jelly) at the ear entrance to help keep water out
  • Gently dry the outer ear only, never insert anything inside

Moisture inside the ear canal is the leading cause of ear infections after wax removal. 

2. Do Not Insert Anything Into Your Ears Your ear canal may be more sensitive than usual. Inserting anything could irritate the skin or introduce bacteria. Avoid: 

  • Cotton buds
  • Fingers
  • Earbuds or in-ear headphones
  • Earplugs (unless necessary)

Even mild irritation can trigger an infection while the canal is recovering. 

3. Use Any Recommended Ear Drops If your clinician has advised drops (such as olive oil, moisturising drops, or medicated drops), please use them as directed. Drops may help: 

  • Soothe irritation
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Prevent bacteria from multiplying
  • Support the natural restoration of the ear canal’s protective layer

4. Avoid Loud Noise After micro-suction or irrigation, your ears may be temporarily more sensitive. Try to avoid: 

  • Loud environments
  • Loud music
  • Headphones or earbuds

This helps prevent discomfort and gives your ears time to settle. 

5. Protect Your Ears From Cold or Wind Sudden temperature changes or strong wind can irritate a freshly cleaned ear canal. If you’re outdoors, wearing a hat or ear covering can help. 

What to Expect After Your Procedure It’s normal to experience: 

  • Slight sensitivity
  • A more “open” or “echoing” feeling
  • Temporary mild itching

These effects usually settle within 24–48 hours. 

Watch for Signs of Infection Although uncommon, an ear infection can occur after earwax removal, especially if water enters the ear or the canal becomes irritated. Please contact the clinic or seek medical advice if you notice: 

  • Increasing ear pain
  • Itching that worsens
  • Yellow or smelly discharge
  • Redness or swelling
  • Persistent muffled hearing
  • Fever or feeling unwell

Early attention prevents the infection from worsening and ensures quick recovery. 

How to Reduce the Risk of Future Ear Problems 

  • Keep ears dry during bathing
  • Avoid cotton buds completely
  • Limit use of in-ear headphones
  • Treat allergies or sinus issues promptly
  • Attend regular ear checks if you are prone to wax buildup

Safe, professional earwax removal combined with good ear care significantly reduces the risk of future infections.