Why do ears become oily in summer?

During summer, oily ears may result from factors such as water entering the external auditory canal, genetic predisposition, suppurative otitis media, or excessive sebaceous gland secretion.

1. Water Entering the External Auditory Canal

In summer, higher temperatures lead to more frequent bathing and swimming. When water enters the external auditory canal, it typically mixes with cerumen (earwax), causing it to become moist. Additionally, the skin of the external auditory canal contains sweat glands and sebaceous glands. Increased sweating during summer—especially if external auditory canal hygiene is neglected—allows sweat to flow into the ear and mix with cerumen, resulting in a damp, sticky, and oily sensation in the ears.

2. Genetic Factors

Some individuals inherit a tendency toward oily cerumen, which often manifests as oily ears during summer.

3. Suppurative Otitis Media

If a purulent infection develops, leading to suppurative otitis media, pus accumulation within the ear can produce an oily appearance. Consequently, oily ears during summer may also occur in such cases.

4. Excessive Sebaceous Gland Secretion

Irregular diet and lifestyle, particularly chronic sleep deprivation, can disrupt endocrine balance and stimulate overproduction of sebum, resulting in oily ears. Thus, oily ears during summer may also arise from this cause.