Ear candling: to do or not to do?

It sounds mysterious and a tad spiritual: a lit candle in your ear to “balance energy” and remove “excess wax. Ear candling (also known as ear candles) has grown considerably in popularity in recent years, especially through social media and wellness channels. But does it actually work? And more importantly, is it safe?

In this blog we dive into the world of ear candling and explain why it is better to let this trend pass you by. And of course we give you a safer and more effective alternative: the Bebird ear cleaner with camera.

What exactly is ear candling?

Ear candling involves inserting a hollow candle made of beeswax or cotton into your ear, then lighting the top. The candle is said to create a kind of vacuum that sucks earwax, bacteria and “toxins” out of your ear. Afterwards, there is often a yellowish-brown residue in the remaining candle, which supporters of the method say is the earwax removed.

It sounds impressive. But alas: science tells a different story.

Does ear candling work?

In short: no. Multiple scientific studies have shown that ear candling does not create a vacuum, does not remove earwax and has no positive effects on your hearing or health. That brown stuff in the candle afterwards? That is simply melted beeswax and burned residue from the candle itself – not from your ear, but from the candle.

In fact, research shows that ear candling can even have the opposite effect. Instead of removing ear wax, the candle wax can actually get into your ear canal. And that’s exactly what you don’t want.

Is ear candling dangerous?

Unfortunately, they do. The risks are not insignificant and certainly not rare. Consider:

• Burns to the ear, face or hair
• Earwax plug formation from candle residue ending up in your ear canal
• Cavities in the eardrum due to overheating or physical pressure
• Narrowing of the ear canal due to irritation or scarring
• Infections, because burnt beeswax or dirt remains in your ear

In short: what is meant to be a “natural cleanse” can end up as a visit to the family doctor or ENT specialist. And that’s exactly what we want to avoid.

Why your ears often don’t need cleaning at all

Your ear canal cleans itself. It really does. In fact, earwax has a function: it keeps your ears supple, traps dust and dirt, and protects against infection. Normally, your ear works earwax out by itself, where you can wipe it away with a cloth. So there is usually no need to “poach” in your ear.

Nevertheless, earwax can build up into a plug. For example, if you have narrow ear canals, work a lot with earplugs, wear hearing aids or simply produce a bit more earwax than average. In these cases, it is important to clean safely.

The Bebird: a modern alternative for safe ear cleaning

Instead of experimenting with fire and beeswax, opt for a modern and safe solution: the Bebird ear cleaner with camera.

This clever gadget is specially designed to gently clean your ear canal. With a tiny hook and a built-in camera, you can see exactly what you’re doing on your smartphone. So no guesswork, and no risk of “going too deep.

Why the Bebird is a good alternative

• Safe and controlled: you see everything you do through the camera
• Without heat, fire or candle wax: no risk of burns or damage
• Reusable: durable and hygienically cleanable
• Suitable for the whole family (if used carefully, and with children always supervised)

You don’t use the Bebird on a daily basis, but only when you notice real earwax that doesn’t come out on its own. It feels a bit like brushing your teeth: you’d rather do it properly and safely.

What if you continue to suffer from earwax problems?

Despite careful cleaning, do you continue to suffer from plug formation, a blocked feeling or itching in your ear? If so, it is wise to have your ears checked by a doctor or audiologist. Sometimes earwax is too hard or too deep to safely remove by yourself. In that case, professional extraction or removal may be necessary.

In any case, never use a cotton swab – nor paper clips, keys, matches or other “tools” that people sometimes reach for. Doing so will actually push the earwax deeper into your ear, with all its consequences.

In summary, leave that candle in the drawer

Ear candling may seem like a soothing ritual, but in reality it is risky, unscientific and often harmful. Your ears are sensitive and smart organs that are usually perfectly capable of keeping themselves clean. And if you do want to clean, do it safely.

For example, choose the Bebird: a modern and effective way to care for your ears without fuss or danger. This will keep your ear canal healthy and your vacation flights, concert evenings and ordinary days nice and sharp.

Your ears are precious. Give them the care they deserve – without smoke, fire and beeswax.