Yes, earwax can smell. While a slightly musty odor is considered normal, a strong or foul smell often indicates a problem.
What Causes Earwax Odor?
Several factors contribute to the smell of earwax:
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Chemical Composition: Earwax contains a chemical that repels insects. The concentration of this chemical varies between individuals, impacting the overall scent. [Source: Earwax: Earwax may have an odor due to a chemical in it that repels insects. Some people have more of this chemical in their wax than others. Dead skin cells and bacteria in the wax may also cause a smell.09-May-2023]
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Bacteria and Dead Skin Cells: The presence of bacteria and dead skin cells within the earwax can contribute to an odor. [Source: Earwax: Earwax may have an odor due to a chemical in it that repels insects. Some people have more of this chemical in their wax than others. Dead skin cells and bacteria in the wax may also cause a smell.09-May-2023]
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Infection: A strong or unpleasant smell often signals an ear infection. This is because infections create an environment where bacteria thrive, producing foul-smelling byproducts. [Sources: Smelly earwax may occur if you have an infection… Treatment can depend on the underlying cause of the odor. (Healthline); If earwax has a noticeable bad smell, this could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as an infection… (InterHearing); When your earwax smells terrible, pay attention because it most likely indicates a severe infection… (Carson Hearing)]
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ABCC11 Transporter Protein: The ABCC11 transporter protein influences earwax type (wet or dry) and is linked to the release of odor-causing compounds. Individuals with wet earwax tend to release more smelly compounds. [Source: People with wet earwax not only release smelly compounds in their cerumen thanks to the ABCC11 transporter protein: they also release smelly… (McGill University)]
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Genetics and Race: Studies suggest that genetic factors, potentially linked to race, influence the composition and odor of earwax. [Source: Apparently, people's earwax smells differently, and the variations depend on your race. Racial differences are based on the genes you bear. (Smithsonian)]
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Foreign Objects: Something trapped in the ear canal, like a foreign body, can decompose and create a foul odor. [Source: Smelly earwax may occur if you have…something stuck in your ear… (Healthline)]
When to Seek Medical Attention
A significantly strong or unpleasant smell from your earwax warrants a visit to a doctor or audiologist. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an infection requiring treatment.
