What is Earwax?

Cerumen, also known as earwax is a substance produced by the glands within our ear canal. 

Its main purpose is to protect the ear from germs. 

Most of the time, wax will naturally make its way out. However, around 1 in 20 people will experience wax build up and impaction at some point throughout their lives, which may then lead to issues such as muffled or loss of hearing.

Types of wax:

Interestingly, genetics and ethnic background play a part in the type of wax you may have in your ear. Usually, it depends on a variant of a gene called 'ABCC11'

Wet earwax: People with the dominant variant typically have wet earwax. This is most common among people of European and African descent.

Dry earwax: People with the recessive variant usually have dry, flaky earwax. This is most common among people of East Asian descent.