Can oily ears be cured?

In general, whether oily ears require treatment depends on the specific circumstances. Physiological oily ears, caused by genetics, do not require special treatment; however, pathological oily ears resulting from conditions such as external otitis need medical intervention. The details are as follows:

Physiological oily ears result from overactive ceruminous glands in the ear canal. The secretions are typically light yellow and sticky but can naturally exit the ear without causing discomfort such as itching or pain. This condition is genetically determined and represents a normal physiological phenomenon. Excessive cleaning may instead damage the delicate skin of the ear canal.

Pathological oily ears are often triggered by inflammatory conditions like external ear infections or eczema. The ear discharge may change color, emit an unpleasant odor, and be accompanied by symptoms such as ear canal blockage and itching. In these cases, abnormal ceruminous gland secretion requires timely medical attention, including professional ear cleaning and targeted anti-inflammatory treatment.

For daily care of oily ears, proper techniques should be followed. Gently wipe the outer ear opening with a clean cotton swab, avoiding insertion into the ear canal. After bathing, promptly dry the area around the ears to prevent water from entering. Avoid frequent ear picking to minimize irritation and maintain a healthy ear canal environment.