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Ear Wax Removal Wigan – What Different Ear Wax Colours Mean

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What Does the Colour of Your Ear Wax Mean?

If you’ve ever cleaned your ears and noticed earwax that looks darker, lighter, or even a bit strange — you’re not alone. Understanding earwax colour can give you clues about your ear health. At Wigan Hearing, we’re here to help with ear wax removal Wigan and expert advice tailored to your needs.

Here’s what your earwax might be trying to tell you.

Why Earwax Comes in Different Colours

1. Age of the Wax

  • Fresh earwax is usually light yellow or amber.

  • Older earwax darkens over time as it collects more dust, dead skin cells, and debris. If you see brown or black wax, it could simply be old.

2. Oxidation

When earwax is exposed to air, it oxidises. This chemical process causes it to darken — similar to how an apple turns brown once sliced.

3. Genetics

Did you know your earwax type is partly genetic?

  • People of East Asian descent often have pale, dry earwax.

  • Those of African or European ancestry usually have darker, stickier wax.

Both types are normal.

4. Environment and Lifestyle

Working in dusty environments or being exposed to pollutants can cause earwax to appear darker. Your wax acts like a filter, trapping unwanted particles.

In some cases, diet and hydration can subtly affect earwax texture or production, though this is less common.

When Earwax Colour Might Signal a Problem

While most colours are harmless, there are a few to watch out for:

5. Red or Black Wax

Reddish or very dark earwax may contain a small amount of blood. This could result from:

  • A scratch inside the ear canal

  • Aggressive cotton bud use

  • Mild irritation or dryness

If it happens regularly or comes with pain or hearing changes, get it checked.

6. Green or White Earwax

Green or white discharge is not normal. It could indicate:

  • A bacterial or fungal infection

  • The presence of pus

  • A foreign object in the ear (in children especially)

This needs medical attention. Contact your GP or an audiologist for advice.

What If Earwax Smells Bad?

Earwax usually has no noticeable odour. If it suddenly smells unpleasant or is combined with pain, discharge, or itchiness, you may have:

  • An infection

  • A trapped foreign body

  • Excess wax that needs safe removal

At Wigan Hearing, we provide professional ear wax removal Wigan using safe methods like microsuction — no syringing, no mess.

When to See a Specialist

Not sure if your earwax is normal? These are signs you should book an appointment:

  • Sudden change in colour or texture

  • Ear pain or a blocked feeling

  • Hearing loss

  • Discharge, swelling, or itching

  • Recurring wax buildup

We’re here to help with clear, honest advice and advanced ear care in Standish, Wigan.

Book Now

Helpful Links & Further Reading

For more guidance, the NHS website on earwax offers helpful tips too.

Why Locals Trust Wigan Hearing

We’re a family-run audiology clinic based in Standish, offering gentle, effective ear wax removal Wigan across Wigan and surrounding areas. People visit us from Shevington, Appley Bridge, Hindley, and Parbold because they trust our honest, friendly approach.

If you’re unsure whether to book, just give us a call. We’re always happy to answer your questions.

Book Your Ear Wax Removal Appointment in Wigan

Blocked ears? Unsure what the colour of your wax means?
We offer same-week appointments, free parking, and a cup of tea when you arrive.

ear wax removal Wigan

Ear wax (cerumen) naturally varies in colour, texture and consistency — and these differences can offer clues about how “fresh” the wax is, or whether there may be a problem. Typically, a healthy ear will produce wax that is light yellow, pale orange or light-brown: this wax is usually soft and slightly sticky, indicating that it’s new and your ear’s self-cleaning system is working properly.

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