Earwax is a natural substance that helps protect your ears from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles.

It is produced by glands that are located in the skin that lines the ear canal, and the color of your earwax can vary depending on a number of factors.

What Is Earwax?

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a waxy substance that is produced by glands that are located in the skin that lines the ear canal. It is made up of a combination of dead skin cells, hair, and secretions from the glands.

Earwax serves a number of important functions including protecting the ear from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles. It also helps lubricate the ear canal and prevent it from becoming dry and itchy.

The Different Colors of Earwax

The color of your earwax can vary depending on a number of different factors. Here are some of the most common colors of earwax:.

Yellow Earwax

Yellow earwax is the most common color of earwax and is generally considered to be a normal color. It is a sign that your ears are healthy and that your body is producing enough earwax to protect your ears.

Brown Earwax

Brown earwax is also considered to be a normal color and is simply an indication that the earwax has been in the ear for a little longer. Brown earwax is usually caused by a buildup of debris, such as dead skin cells and dirt, in the ear canal.

Black Earwax

Black earwax can be a sign that there is a buildup of earwax in the ear canal that has not been removed. It can also be an indication of an ear infection or an injury to the ear.

Gray Earwax

Gray earwax can be a sign of a fungal infection in the ear. If you notice gray earwax, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation.

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White Earwax

White earwax is a sign that there is not much earwax in the ear canal. While this may seem like a good thing, it can actually lead to dryness and itching in the ear canal.

Green Earwax

Green earwax can be a sign of an infection in the ear. If you notice green earwax, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation.

How to Care for Your Earwax

While earwax is a natural substance that helps protect your ears, it is important to care for your earwax and keep it clean. Here are some tips for caring for your earwax:.

Use Earplugs

If you are frequently exposed to loud noises, such as at a concert or while mowing the lawn, it is important to wear earplugs to protect your ears from damage.

Clean Your Earwax

You can clean your earwax by gently washing the outside of your ear with soap and water.

It is important not to insert anything into your ear canal, such as a cotton swab, as this can push the earwax further into the ear and cause damage to the ear canal.

See a Doctor

If you notice a change in the color or consistency of your earwax, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. They can determine if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

The Bottom Line

The color of your earwax can provide some insight into your overall health. While yellow and brown earwax are considered to be normal, other colors such as black, gray, and green can be a sign of an underlying condition.

If you notice a change in the color or consistency of your earwax, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation.