Itchy Ears? Here’s What Might Be Causing It and How to Find Relief
Itchy ears can be frustrating, distracting, and uncomfortable. At Victorian Hearing, we hear this complaint all the time—and the good news? Thankfully, in most cases, relief is within reach! Let’s explore what might be causing that itch and how you can soothe your ears safely.
Common Causes of Itchy Ears
1. Dry Skin
Your ears naturally produce earwax, which helps keep the ear canal moisturised. If your skin is dry — either from genetics, age, or if you have frequently poked your ear — your ears might itch.
2. Earwax Buildup or Blockage
While earwax is helpful, too much of it can cause discomfort. A buildup or blockage might cause itching, a feeling of fullness, or even affect your hearing.
3. Allergies or Skin Conditions
Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or allergic reactions to skincare products, hearing aid materials, or earrings can irritate the delicate skin of the ear canal.
4. Infections
Ear infections, including swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), can cause intense itching, redness, and pain. Moist environments can encourage bacterial or fungal growth.
5. Hearing Aids or Earbuds
If you use hearing aids or earbuds, these devices can sometimes trap moisture or create friction, resulting in itchiness. Reach out to your audiologist today to get a custom ear mold designed specifically for your ear, helping to prevent moisture buildup and reduce discomfort.
6. Foreign Objects or Irritants
Anything from stray hairs to shampoo residue can cause irritation. Even using cotton swabs can inadvertently scratch the ear canal, making it itchier. It is best to leave the ear alone, and refrain from any poking.
What You Can Do
• Resist Scratching or Using Cotton Swabs
The number one culprit to irritation and excessive earwax build up we see in our clinics is cotton bud usage. It might feel satisfying momentarily, however scratching can worsen irritation or cause micro-injuries that invite infection. Earwax is protective and when the foreign object of a cotton bud enters the ear canal that disrupts the sensitive skin of the ear canal, a byproduct in some individuals is more wax production, which is the opposite outcome of why many attempt to use cotton buds in the first place. It is best to leave the ear alone and place nothing inside the ear canal it that can harm the ear.
• Keep Ears Dry
After swimming or showering, gently towel-dry around your ears or use a hairdryer on a low setting to prevent excess moisture. If you go swimming or surging regularly, it is best practice to have custom swim plugs to prevent water entering the ears. Cold ocean water can accelerate bone growth within the ear canal leading to a condition called exostosis, that can lead to hearing loss.
• Clean Hearing Devices Regularly
Ensure hearing aids and earbuds are cleaned and dried properly to avoid bacteria buildup. This can be done with a damp cleaning cloth, like the ones people have to clean glasses lenses. Remember to wash the cloth regularly to prevent build up of bacteria.
• Address Underlying Skin Conditions
If you have eczema or allergies, managing those conditions with the help of a dermatologist or your GP can reduce ear itchiness. If dry skin is the culprit, consult your doctor to have this investigated. Some individuals with severe dry skin have ear drops of medical-grade mineral oil or an ear-specific moisturiser can help.
• Seek Professional Earwax Removal
If you suspect a blockage, don’t try to remove earwax yourself. At Victorian Hearing, we use microsuction – a gentle, safe methods to clear your ears without risking damage. Read more about safe earwax removal here https://victorianhearing.com.au/five-reasons-to-choose-microsuction-for-ear-wax-removal/
When to See an Audiologist
If your itchy ears persist, become painful, or are accompanied by discharge, reduced hearing, or ringing (tinnitus), it’s time to book an appointment. These symptoms might signal an infection or another underlying issue that needs professional care.
At Victorian Hearing, your local independent audiology clinic, we’re here to help you find relief. Whether it’s assessing your hearing aids, professionally cleaning your ears, or identifying an underlying skin condition, we’ll work with you to restore comfort and clarity to your ears.