Tips & Tricks for Dry, Itchy Ears
Why are my ears itchy?
Itchy ears can be caused by several different problems. It may be that your body simply produces less earwax than the average person. Earwax acts as a protective coating on the skin inside your ear. It repels water and protects your ears from bacteria and other foreign substances. It’s produced by oil glands inside your skin. This oiliness prevents dryness and itchiness.
You might be cleaning your ears or using Q-tips too often, which can cause the skin inside your ear canals to become dry and flaky. Using Q-tips too frequently can cause your body to produce less earwax, which will only make the itchiness worse.
Dry skin in the ears can also be caused by allergies or skin conditions like eczema. If ear itchiness persists after tying multiple methods to stop it, consider visiting a dermatologist to address the problem. Also, if you notice that your ears are foul-smelling or there is liquid draining out of them, it’s possible the cause of your itchiness is an infection. Visit an ear, nose, and throat doctor, and don’t try any of the methods below. ASH Audiology is happy to make a referral for you.
What can I do to stop my ears from itching?
Method 1: Baby or olive oil
Your earwax is created from oils naturally produced by your skin. If you’re not producing enough wax naturally, try placing one or two drops of baby or olive oil in your ears at nighttime. If you do use olive oil, be sure to use 100% plain olive oil and not one that’s flavored with lemon or some other additive. The oil can coat the inside of your ear canal, reducing dryness.
Method 2: Ear lotions and lubricants
Anti-itch hydrocortisone creams and moisturizers designed to help relieve itchy ears can bring relief fast. ASH Audiology recommends two products, which you can purchase from our online shop or by contacting us.
Method 3: Use a humidifier in the wintertime.
During colder months, the air contains less moisture. This can dry out your skin. Turning on a humidifier at night while you sleep may help keep your skin from drying out.
Method 4: Petroleum jelly
Take a Q-tip, coat it in petroleum jelly, and gently swab the inside of your ear canal. The petroleum jelly can act as a substitute for earwax, protecting the delicate dry skin in your ear. Be careful not to insert the Q-tip too deeply.
What if nothing works?
If nothing works, it could be a sign that something is wrong. See your primary care or ear, nose and throat doctor and discuss the problem with them. Avoid using Q-tips or inserting any foreign objects into your ears, as that could exacerbate the problem.