Many people use cotton buds after bathing because they want their ears to feel clean. Some even make it part of their daily hygiene routine. However, inserting cotton buds into the ear canal can cause more harm than good.
Here are five important things you should know before using them.
1. They can push earwax deeper
Earwax is naturally produced to protect the ear canal. Inserting a cotton bud may push wax further inside instead of removing it.
2. They can irritate the ear canal
The skin inside the ear is delicate. Repeated rubbing with cotton buds may cause irritation, itching or small injuries.
3. They may damage the eardrum
Pushing a cotton bud too far into the ear can injure the eardrum. Such injuries may cause pain, hearing problems or other complications.
4. They can increase the risk of infection
Scratching or damaging the skin inside the ear can make it easier for infection to develop.
5. They may make earwax problems worse
Trying to remove all earwax can lead to blockage or irritation. In most people, earwax moves naturally towards the outer ear.
What should you do instead?
Clean only the outer part of your ear gently with a damp cloth. If you experience blocked ears, pain, discharge or reduced hearing, seek advice from a healthcare professional instead of inserting objects into the ear canal.
Final thoughts
Your ears do not need aggressive cleaning to remain healthy. Earwax has a protective purpose, and keeping cotton buds outside the ear canal is a safer habit.
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