Olive Oil Ear Drops: A Natural Solution for Earwax Buildup

Earwax may be a normal and even helpful part of our body’s natural defences, but for many people, it can cause discomfort, muffled hearing, or even temporary hearing loss. One of the most common and gentle ways to manage this is using olive oil ear drops—a simple, natural solution trusted by healthcare professionals and patients alike.

At Bourne End Pharmacy, we’re often asked about how olive oil ear drops work, who should use them, and whether they’re better than other over-the-counter treatments. In this guide, we’ll answer those questions and explain how to use them effectively and safely.

What Causes Earwax Buildup?

Earwax, or cerumen, is produced by glands in the ear canal to protect and clean the ears. It traps dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching deeper into the ear.

For most people, earwax naturally makes its way out of the ear on its own. However, in some cases, it can build up and harden, leading to:

• -> Blocked ears

• -> Temporary hearing loss

• -> A feeling of fullness or pressure

• -> Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

• -> Itchiness or mild ear discomfort

This can happen due to several reasons:

• -> Using cotton buds, which push wax further in

• -> Wearing hearing aids or in-ear headphones

• -> Narrow or hairy ear canals

• -> Age-related changes in wax consistency

What Are Olive Oil Ear Drops?

Olive oil ear drops are a gentle, natural remedy used to soften earwax, making it easier for the body to expel it naturally or for healthcare professionals to remove it more easily.

The olive oil used is medical-grade, purified for safe use in the ear. It works by softening hardened wax, helping it to break down and move toward the outer ear, where it can fall out on its own or be removed during ear microsuction.

Benefits of Olive Oil Ear Drops

Using olive oil ear drops has several benefits, especially when used correctly and consistently:

• -> Natural and gentle – Minimal risk of irritation or allergic reaction

• -> Non-invasive – Can be used at home without instruments

• -> Prepares ears for microsuction – Helps loosen wax before professional earwax removal

• -> Cost-effective – Inexpensive compared to other ear care products

• -> Readily available – Can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies like ours

How to Use Olive Oil Ear Drops Safely

Follow these simple steps for safe and effective use:

1. Warm the bottle slightly by holding it in your hands. Cold drops can cause dizziness.

2. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.

3. Put 2–3 drops into the ear canal using the dropper provided.

4. Stay in position for 5–10 minutes to allow the oil to soak in.

5. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean tissue.

6. Repeat once or twice a day for 3–5 days, or as directed.

If you’re treating both ears, repeat the process for the other side.

When to Use Olive Oil Drops

You can use olive oil ear drops as:

• -> A home remedy for mild wax buildup

• -> A pre-treatment before professional earwax removal, such as microsuction

• -> A maintenance tool to prevent recurring buildup if you’re prone to it

When to Avoid Olive Oil Ear Drops

While generally safe, olive oil ear drops aren’t suitable for everyone. Avoid using them if:

• -> You have a perforated eardrum

• -> You have an ear infection or fluid discharge

• -> You’ve recently had ear surgery

• -> You experience severe pain or sudden hearing loss

If you’re unsure, speak to a pharmacist or GP before using any ear treatment.

Alternative Options to Olive Oil Ear Drops

While olive oil is a popular choice, other earwax softeners include:

• -> Sodium bicarbonate drops

• -> Hydrogen peroxide-based solutions

• -> Urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops

• -> Commercial products like Otex or Earex

Each has different mechanisms and potential side effects. Olive oil remains one of the mildest and safest options, especially for people with sensitive ears.

What If Olive Oil Drops Don’t Work?

If after 5–7 days of using olive oil ear drops you still feel blocked or uncomfortable, you may need professional earwax removal. At Bourne End Pharmacy, we offer ear microsuction, a safe and effective method of removing stubborn wax.

Before your appointment, we usually recommend using olive oil drops for a few days to soften the wax. This helps ensure a smoother and more comfortable procedure.

Why Choose Bourne End Pharmacy?

At Bourne End Pharmacy, we provide:

• -> Ear health consultations

• -> Microsuction earwax removal

• -> Olive oil ear drops and other ear care products

• -> Expert advice tailored to your needs

Whether you’re dealing with blocked ears, planning a hearing test, or need guidance on ear care, our team is here to help.

Olive oil ear drops are a gentle, effective, and natural way to manage earwax buildup at home. They can offer relief from blocked ears and support healthy ear hygiene. For more persistent wax or ongoing issues, professional removal may be needed.

You can pick up olive oil ear drops at Bourne End Pharmacy today—or book an appointment with our ear care specialists if you need further support.

This blog was written on behalf of Bourne End Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.