Earwax Removal
A buildup of earwax is entirely normal and happens to us all but, over time, if it starts to build up too much it can become problematic, leading to temporary hearing loss, earache, a feeling of blocked ears, tinnitus (characterised by a ringing or buzzing in the ears) and even vertigo (feeling sick and nauseous).
Earwax buildup can be down to a range of different causes, everything from having lots of hair in your ear canals to having narrow or damaged ear canals, inflammation, or even a skin condition affecting the scalp/near the ear.
It is not possible to prevent earwax from forming as it’s there to help protect your ears from dirt and germs. However, you can use eardrops to help soften the wax and encourage it to fall out and prevent your ears from blocking.
Normally, earwax will simply fall out on its own but occasionally it can build up and cause a blockage. In this case, it’s important not to try and clear the blockage yourself as this can make it worse, so avoid using your fingers or something like cotton wool buds to deal with the issue, as you could push the wax in further and make the situation worse.
Here at Newdays Pharmacy, our qualified pharmacists can help you with earwax removal if required. We can provide you with advice and suggest various treatments, as well as providing microsuction procedures to help clear the wax.
What is Microsuction?
The safest and most effective form of earwax removal is microsuction. The procedure involves using a low-pressure suction probe to remove the wax without touching the sensitive area near the ear canal and without coming into contact with the eardrum.
During your appointment at our earwax removal pharmacy, our pharmacist will take a comprehensive account of your medical history and conduct a microscopic examination of your inner ear canals and eardrums.
The procedure itself is typically painless but you will likely hear the sound of the air passing through the suction wand, as well as a pop when the wax is sucked out of the ear and into the probe.
It can be helpful to soften the earwax in the days leading up to your appointment. Use medicated oil drops once a day in each affected ear and repeat for five days before you come and see us for your appointment.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your earwax removal appointment at Newdays Pharmacy is straightforward and typically takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. Here is what to expect:
Before the procedure; Your pharmacist will take a brief medical history and ask about your symptoms, any previous ear conditions, recent infections or perforated eardrums. This ensures microsuction is the right and safe option for you.
During the procedure; Using a specialist microscope or loupe for direct visualisation, your pharmacist will gently insert a fine suction probe into the ear canal. You may hear the sound of the suction and feel a mild sensation, but the procedure should not be painful. Both ears can typically be treated in the same appointment if required.
After the procedure; Most patients notice an immediate improvement in hearing once the blockage is cleared. Your pharmacist will carry out a post-procedure check to confirm the ear canals are clear and will advise you on how to maintain ear health going forward.
When Is Earwax Removal Not Suitable?
Microsuction is safe for most adults, but there are some circumstances in which it may not be appropriate. Our pharmacist will assess your suitability during your appointment. Earwax removal at the pharmacy may not be suitable if you:
Have a current or recent ear infection
Have a known or suspected perforated eardrum
Have had recent ear surgery
Have a very narrow or abnormally shaped ear canal
Are experiencing severe pain or discharge from the ear
If any of the above apply, we will advise you to see your GP in the first instance.
Tips for Preventing Earwax Buildup
While earwax is a natural and necessary part of ear health, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a problematic buildup:
Use eardrops regularly; olive oil or medicated eardrops used once or twice a week can help keep wax soft and encourage it to clear naturally
Avoid cotton buds; these push wax further into the canal rather than removing it and are a common cause of compaction
Do not insert anything into the ear canal; fingers, hairpins or ear candles can all damage the delicate skin inside the ear and worsen the problem
Protect your ears in water; swimmers and people regularly exposed to water may benefit from wearing ear plugs to reduce moisture in the ear canal, which can contribute to wax buildup
Book regular checks; if you are prone to earwax buildup, scheduling routine appointments at Newdays means any blockage can be caught and cleared before it causes significant symptoms
Why choose Newdays Pharmacy
Here at Newdays Pharmacy, we offer a range of private and NHS services. You can find out more about us online and book an appointment with one of our pharmacists in your
If you’d like to find out more, get in touch with us today!
- Microsuction specialists; our pharmacists are trained in the safe and effective method of earwax removal
- Private consultation room; all appointments are carried out in a comfortable, confidential setting
- No GP referral required; book directly at your nearest Newdays branch without needing a referral
- Both ears treated in one visit; if both ears are affected, we can treat them in the same appointment
- Pre- and post-procedure advice; full guidance given on ear preparation beforehand and ongoing ear health maintenance afterwards
- Four convenient branches serving Windsor, Eton, Lane End, Twyford and Reading (Coley Park)
How it works
Book Your Earwax Removal Appointment
Book online or visit your nearest branch no GP referral needed. We recommend using olive oil drops for 3–5 days beforehand to soften the wax.
Undergo Your Microsuction Procedure
Our trained pharmacist will examine your ear canal and use a gentle low-pressure suction probe to safely and precisely remove the wax typically painless and over in minutes
Leave with Clear Ears & Expert Advice
Your pharmacist will confirm the blockage has been cleared and provide guidance on preventing future buildup, including when to use eardrops and when to seek further care.
FAQ
Common Questions & Answers
What method is used for earwax removal?
Earwax is typically removed using microsuction, a safe and precise method that uses gentle suction under direct visual guidance. At Newdays Pharmacy, this ensures effective removal without damaging the ear canal.
Is microsuction earwax removal safe?
Yes, microsuction is considered one of the safest methods as it avoids water pressure and allows the practitioner to see inside the ear throughout the procedure.
Do I need to prepare before earwax removal?
Yes, it is recommended to soften earwax using olive oil drops for 3–5 days before your appointment to make the process easier and more effective.
What are the signs of earwax build-up?
Symptoms include hearing loss, blocked ears, ringing sounds, dizziness, or discomfort in the ear.
How is microsuction different from ear syringing?
Microsuction uses controlled suction with visibility, while syringing uses water pressure without direct vision, making microsuction safer and more precise.