Earwax is a natural substance that protects your ears from dust, debris, and infection. But when it builds up or hardens, it can cause discomfort, muffled hearing, and even dizziness or pain. That’s when many people turn to earwax removal drops as a first step in clearing the blockage.

At Midnight Pharmacy, we’re often asked: how long should I use earwax removal drops for, and how do I know if they’re working? In this guide, we explain the proper dosage, how long to use drops, and what to do if they don’t work — including when to consider professional earwax removal services such as microsuction.

What Are Earwax Removal Drops?

Earwax removal drops are over-the-counter solutions designed to soften hardened or impacted earwax, making it easier for the wax to move out naturally or be flushed out during irrigation.

There are several types of ear drops, including:

• –> Olive oil or almond oil drops – natural softeners

• –> Sodium bicarbonate drops – help break down wax

• –> Urea hydrogen peroxide drops – fizz and help dissolve wax build-up

Each works slightly differently, but they all aim to reduce the need for manual wax removal by softening the blockage first.

How Often Should You Use Earwax Drops?

For most products, the general recommendation is:

• –> Apply 3 to 5 drops into the affected ear twice a day

• –> Use for 3 to 5 days before reassessing

This allows time for the wax to soften and start to shift naturally. However, always follow the instructions on the product packaging or ask your pharmacist for tailored advice, especially if you are using medicated or peroxide-based drops.

At Midnight Pharmacy, we’ll guide you on the correct technique to apply ear drops, including lying on your side, gently pulling the ear upwards, and remaining in position for a few minutes to let the drops absorb.

What Should You Expect During Treatment?

Once you start using earwax removal drops, you might notice:

• –> A crackling or fizzing sensation (especially with hydrogen peroxide drops)

• –> Slight fullness or temporary muffling in the ear as the wax softens

• –> Some wax or residue leaking out of the ear over a few days

This is all perfectly normal and usually indicates the drops are doing their job. You can use a tissue or cotton pad (not a bud) to gently wipe away any wax that works its way out.

Avoid using earbuds or inserting anything into your ears during treatment — doing so can push the wax deeper and worsen the blockage.

When Should You Stop Using Earwax Removal Drops?

If the drops have been used for 5 days with no improvement, or if symptoms worsen, it’s time to stop and seek professional advice. Continuing for too long may cause irritation or dryness in the ear canal, especially with chemical-based drops.

Signs you may need further treatment include:

• –> Persistent blocked hearing

• –> Pain or pressure in the ear

• –> Ear discharge or bleeding

• –> Dizziness or ringing in the ears

When Drops Aren’t Enough: Consider Microsuction

While earwax removal drops work well for mild or moderate build-up, some blockages require professional intervention. If drops haven’t cleared the wax after several days, or you’ve used them as instructed without relief, microsuction may be the best next step.

At Midnight Pharmacy, we offer professional microsuction earwax removal — a safe and effective method that uses gentle suction to remove wax without the need for water or syringing. It’s quick, painless, and ideal for people with:

• –> Hard or compacted wax

• –> Narrow or sensitive ear canals

• –> A history of ear infections

• –> Hearing aids or medical ear devices

Microsuction can often be completed in just one appointment and provides immediate relief.

Safety Tips When Using Ear Drops

To use ear drops safely:

• –> Never use them if you have a perforated eardrum or recent ear surgery

• –> Don’t use drops for more than 5 consecutive days without advice

• –> Keep the bottle clean and never share drops with others

• –> Speak to a pharmacist before use in children under 12

Speak to Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford for Advice

Whether you’re dealing with occasional wax build-up or frequent ear blockages, Midnight Pharmacy is here to help. We offer:

• –> Expert advice on earwax removal drops

• –> Tailored product recommendations

• –> Microsuction appointments for safe and effective wax removal

• –> Ongoing support for recurring ear health concerns

If your ears feel blocked or uncomfortable, don’t wait. Contact us today for personalised care and ear health you can trust. Let’s get you hearing clearly again.

This blog was written on behalf of Midnight Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.