At Eltham Pharmacy, we understand how uncomfortable blocked ears can be. Whether it’s affecting your hearing, causing pressure or even leading to mild earache, a build-up of earwax can be more than just a nuisance. It’s no surprise that many people look for quick and easy solutions online—including the popular but controversial wax candle ear treatment. However, when it comes to safety, effectiveness and long-term ear health, we believe there’s a better solution: professional ear irrigation.

Here in London, we’re proud to offer safe and clinically approved earwax removal services that avoid the risks associated with at-home remedies. In this post, we’ll explore why earwax builds up, compare the wax candle ear treatment to modern irrigation, and explain why visiting a trained professional is always the best option for your ears.

What Causes Earwax Build-Up?

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It acts as a protective barrier, trapping dust and debris while keeping your ears lubricated. In most cases, earwax works its way out of the ear naturally. However, for some people, wax can accumulate and harden, leading to blockages.

Common causes of earwax build-up include:

• –> Use of cotton buds or in-ear headphones

• –> Narrow or unusually shaped ear canals

• –> Ageing (older adults often produce drier wax)

• –> Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

What Is Wax Candle Ear Treatment?

Ear candling is an alternative therapy that involves placing a hollow candle into the ear and lighting the exposed end. Proponents claim the heat creates a vacuum that draws wax and impurities out of the ear canal.

This method is widely available online and often marketed as a “natural” remedy. However, medical professionals—including the NHS and ENT specialists—strongly advise against it due to safety concerns.

The Risks of Ear Candling

Despite its popularity, wax candle ear treatment carries several risks:

• –> Burns to the ear, face or hair from the open flame

• –> Blockages from melted candle wax entering the ear canal

• –> Perforated eardrums, which can lead to hearing loss

• –> False results – what appears to be removed earwax is often just residue from the candle itself

In short, earwax candling is not only ineffective but potentially dangerous. At Eltham Pharmacy, we often see patients who’ve experienced discomfort or complications after trying this method.

Why Irrigation Is the Safer, More Effective Option

In contrast to candling, ear irrigation is a clinically approved and non-invasive procedure performed by trained professionals. It involves gently flushing the ear canal with warm water using a specialised device to dislodge and remove built-up wax.

Here’s why we recommend irrigation over wax candle ear treatment:

Clinically backed: Supported by medical research and widely used in UK pharmacies and GP surgeries.

Pain-free: Performed with care and comfort in mind, with minimal risk.

Quick results: The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes and provides immediate relief.

Thorough: More effective at reaching and removing compacted wax, especially in cases where drops alone are not sufficient.

Before proceeding, we’ll conduct a pre-treatment consultation, including an otoscopic examination to assess the level of wax build-up. We’ll also advise on pre-irrigation steps, such as using olive oil drops to soften the wax in the days leading up to your appointment.

What to Expect During Your Visit

If you’re based in London and suffering from blocked ears, our pharmacy team is here to help. Booking your appointment is easy, and the entire process is handled discreetly in our private consultation room.

Our service includes:

• –> Initial consultation and ear examination

• –> Full ear irrigation using professional equipment

• –> Aftercare advice to prevent future build-up

Unlike wax candle ear treatment, our method is rooted in medical standards and supported by evidence, ensuring your hearing is protected.

Book Safe Earwax Removal at Eltham Pharmacy Today

Earwax build-up doesn’t have to disrupt your day. If you’re tempted by the promises of wax candle ear treatment, we urge you to reconsider. Your ears deserve better care—and at Eltham Pharmacy, we’re committed to providing safe, effective solutions to support your ear health.

We’re located conveniently in the heart of Eltham, serving the local London community with accessible earwax removal appointments throughout the week.

To book your earwax removal appointment or speak with our pharmacy team, contact us today. Your ears will thank you.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.