When someone has a build up of earwax it is because there is something preventing the earwax from migrating out naturally. Sometimes this is because of hairy ear canals, dry skin, a narrow canal, use of hearing aids or ear plugs (see our blog on ‘What Causes Earwax to Build Up’ for a more indepth look at this). It is widely recommended to use medical grade olive oil in the ear as it helps to soften the wax and lubricate the ear canal. This means that the wax will be able to move out of the ear canal easier, or if it cannot come out on its own, it makes the microsuction process easier. Some people find that if they have an itchy ear caused by dry skin, the olive oil can give some relief from the itch as it moisturises the skin. To read more about the microsuction method, see our blog ‘Microsuction vs Ear Syringing’.