Why is My Ear Oily?
Oily ears are often due to the natural sebum produced by sebaceous glands located in your ear canals. These glands secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and prevents dryness. However, excessive oiliness could indicate other issues.
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Sebaceous Glands: Tiny sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles within your ears. They produce sebum, a natural oil that keeps your ear canal skin healthy and lubricated. This oil is a normal part of ear physiology. ([Sebaceous glands](reference text from provided sources))
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Earwax (Cerumen): Earwax also plays a crucial role in ear health. It acts as a waterproof barrier, protecting the ear canal from drying out and carrying away debris. ([Earwax (Cerumen): Types, Causes & What It's Made Of](reference text from provided sources))
Potential Causes of Excessive Oiliness
While some oiliness is normal, excessive oil can be a symptom of several conditions:
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Seborrheic Dermatitis: This common inflammatory skin condition causes flaky, yellowish scales to appear in oily areas, including the ears. ([Seborrheic dermatitis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia](reference text from provided sources), [Seborrheic dermatitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic](reference text from provided sources))
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Skin Conditions: Other skin conditions can affect the oil production in your ears, leading to increased oiliness.
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Hygiene Practices: While cleaning your ears is important, over-cleaning can disrupt the natural balance, potentially leading to increased oil production. ([Are the insides of people's ears supposed to be oily? Are the ...](reference text from provided sources))
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External Factors: Climate and environmental factors can also influence the moisture level in your ears.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If your oily ears are accompanied by other symptoms like itching, redness, inflammation, or excessive earwax, it is crucial to consult a doctor or dermatologist. They can diagnose any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatment.
