Ben Carter
Ear candling is a traditional practice that involves placing a hollow candle in the ear and lighting the other end. The warm suction created by the candle's flame is believed to remove earwax, improve hearing, and treat various conditions. While some people find it effective and relaxing, there is no reliable scientific evidence supporting its benefits. On the contrary, experts warn that ear candling is unsafe and can cause serious injuries, such as burns, ear infections, and eardrum damage. It may also worsen earwax buildup and increase the risk of accidents. As a result, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised against its use, recommending professional ear cleaning or safe at-home treatments instead.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To remove ear wax and treat health conditions like clogged ears, ear aches, ringing in the ears, sinus infections, allergies, and colds |
| Composition | 100% natural beeswax and unbleached cotton or cotton muslin |
| Variants | Scented with organic essential oils or unscented |
| Safety | No-drip filter for safety, easy-to-light edge, recyclable packaging |
| Time | Takes about 15 minutes to burn down |
| Effectiveness | No reliable scientific proof of its benefits, may worsen ear wax buildup |
| Warnings | Can cause serious injuries, hot wax and ash may burn your face or ears, risk of eardrum perforation |
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What You'll Learn
How to make beeswax ear candles
Ear candles are made of cotton or linen, which is tightly wound into a cone shape. The candle is then soaked in beeswax, paraffin, or soy wax and allowed to harden.
To make beeswax ear candles, you will need:
- Cotton or linen
- Beeswax
- A mould or cone shape to wrap the cotton/linen around
- A heat source to melt the beeswax
- A container to mix the beeswax
- Melt the beeswax in a container over a heat source.
- Once the beeswax is melted, carefully dip the cotton or linen cone into the wax, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Allow the candle to harden.
- Repeat the dipping process until the candle reaches the desired thickness.
- Let the candle cool and harden completely.
- Remove the candle from the mould or cone shape.
- Cut a small hole at the bottom of a paper plate or foil, and place the candle through it, so that the plate catches any wax drippings.
- Lie on your side with the ear to be treated facing up.
- Place the candle into your external ear canal and light the exposed end.
- Allow the candle to burn for 10-20 minutes.
- Blow out the flame, remove the candle, and wipe the outer ear with a cotton ball or pad.
It is important to note that ear candling is not a medically approved practice for removing earwax. Major health authorities, including the FDA, have warned against its use due to the risk of burns, damage to the ear canal, and lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. There are safer alternatives for earwax removal, such as over-the-counter ear drops or seeking professional advice from a doctor.
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How to light beeswax ear candles
Ear candling is a controversial practice that involves placing a lit, hollow candle in your ear to remove earwax. Despite its popularity, there is no scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness or safety. Major health authorities, including the FDA, have warned against its use due to the risk of severe burns, eardrum damage, and hearing loss.
If you choose to proceed with ear candling, it is important to take precautions to minimize the risk of injury. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to light beeswax ear candles:
- Prepare the necessary materials: Ensure you have a high-quality, all-natural beeswax ear candle with a hollow centre. Beeswax ear candles are typically about 10 inches long, hollow, and tapered. You will also need a reliable lighter or matches, and a protective barrier such as a paper plate or aluminium foil to catch any stray wax or debris.
- Create a calm and comfortable environment: Choose a quiet room with minimal external noise to ensure a serene atmosphere. Dim the lights to create a soothing ambiance.
- Position yourself comfortably: Lie down on your side with the ear to be treated facing up. This will provide easy access to your ear canal.
- Insert the candle and create a protective barrier: Place the candle in your ear canal, ensuring it is secure. Use the paper plate or foil to cover your hair, face, and neck, protecting these areas from hot wax or ash.
- Light the candle: Using your lighter or matches, carefully light the opposite end of the candle, i.e., the end that is farthest from your ear.
- Monitor the candle: Allow the candle to burn for approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Some sources recommend burning it for about 15 minutes or until the candle stub is a few inches from your head.
- Extinguish and remove the candle: Once the desired time has passed or the candle has burned down to the recommended length, carefully extinguish the flame and remove the candle from your ear.
- Clean your ear: Wipe the outer ear clean with a cotton ball or pad to remove any remaining wax or residue.
It is important to remember that ear candling is not a medically approved practice and carries potential risks, including burns and damage to your ear. If you experience any discomfort or have concerns about earwax buildup, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for safe and effective alternatives to ear candling.
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How to safely use beeswax ear candles
While ear candling is thought to remove earwax and treat health conditions, there is no reliable scientific proof of its benefits. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against ear candling, noting that it can cause serious physical injuries and has dangerous side effects. Experts do not recommend using ear candles, and advise that the safest way to remove earwax is to see your doctor for a professional cleaning.
If you choose to use beeswax ear candles, follow these steps to ensure you do so safely:
- Place the pointed end of the candle in your ear, and tilt your head so that the blocked ear faces downward.
- Light the open end of the candle.
- As the candle burns, trim it and keep it open. Ensure that no wax is allowed to drip into the ear or onto the skin around the ear.
- Burn the candle for about 15 minutes, then carefully blow out the flame.
- After the procedure, cut open the candle to display the inside materials.
To ensure safety and peace of mind, only use candles with a no-drip safety filter. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer's directions, and stop the candle four inches away from the tip of the ear, as recommended.
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How to buy beeswax ear candles
Beeswax ear candles are available from several online retailers, including Amazon, CVS Pharmacy, and Wally's Natural. They can also be purchased from specialty websites such as wepersonalcare.com and massagewarehouse.com.
When buying beeswax ear candles, it is important to consider the ingredients and materials used. Some candles are made with unbleached cotton muslin and purified beeswax, free from harmful additives, chemicals, or dyes. These candles burn cleanly and naturally, with a subtle honey-like aroma. It is also important to ensure that the candles have a no-drip safety filter to prevent any wax from dripping onto the skin.
Wally's Natural, for example, offers handcrafted, hollow candles made from unbleached cotton muslin that is dipped in wax. Their candles are free from chemicals, dyes, and additives, and feature an easy-to-light edge. They offer a variety of scents, including unscented, lavender, and herbal.
Another option is Cylinder Works Beeswax Ear Coning Candles, which are made from 100% cotton muslin cloth, certified organic essential oils, and natural beeswax or food-grade paraffin waxes. These candles are also available with a price match guarantee, ensuring that you get the best price available.
When purchasing beeswax ear candles, it is important to read reviews and compare prices from multiple retailers to ensure you are getting a high-quality product at a fair price. It is also essential to follow all safety precautions when using ear candles, as they involve an open flame. Always have a second person present to assist with the process and take appropriate measures to protect your skin and surroundings from dripping wax or falling ash.
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How to avoid injury when using beeswax ear candles
Ear candling is an alternative practice that involves inserting a lit, hollow candle into the ear canal to remove earwax. While some people claim that it is an effective way to get rid of excess ear wax, there is no scientific evidence to support this. Furthermore, there are several risks associated with ear candling, which can result in injuries. Here are some guidelines to follow to avoid injury when using beeswax ear candles:
Firstly, it is important to ensure that you do not have any allergies or sensitivities to the materials used in ear candles, such as beeswax or essential oils. Direct contact with these substances can trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, if you have had recent ear surgery or a perforated eardrum, it is strongly advised to avoid ear candling as the heat and pressure created during the process can further damage the eardrum and potentially lead to hearing loss.
Before beginning the ear candling process, find a calm and quiet area free from any flammable materials. It is crucial to ensure that the ear candle is positioned vertically and straight, allowing for optimal airflow and a secure fit. Avoid pushing the ear candle too forcefully or deeply into the ear canal to prevent discomfort or injury. Gently twist the ear candle clockwise while applying light pressure to create a snug fit. Hold the ear candle firmly but gently, and avoid any sudden movements that may cause discomfort or compromise the integrity of the ear candle.
When purchasing ear candles, opt for those with a no-drip safety filter to prevent hot wax from dripping into your ear canal. It is also recommended to use an ear candle with a protector tip at the end to prevent dripping. Additionally, burnt material should be trimmed away as the candle burns. Always stop using the candle when it is a few inches away from your head, as per manufacturer recommendations.
It is worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against using lit candles close to the face, as ear candling carries a high risk of burns and middle ear damage, even when used according to the manufacturer's directions. There is also a risk of fire when using lit ear candles. Therefore, it is advised to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting ear candling and to proceed with caution, being mindful of the potential risks and side effects associated with the practice.
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Frequently asked questions
Beeswax ear candles are hollow candles made of wax-covered fabric. They are used to remove earwax and are believed to improve hearing and treat conditions like sinus infections and colds.
The pointed end of the candle is placed in the ear while the other end is lit. The candle is burned for about 15 minutes, after which the flame is carefully blown out. The warmth of the candle's flame creates a vacuum, and the resulting suction is supposed to pull earwax and debris into the candle.
Beeswax ear candles are not considered safe by experts and doctors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against their use, stating that there is no valid scientific evidence for any medical benefit. Additionally, there is a risk of serious injury to the ear and face from hot wax and ash.
