We’re taught from a young age to keep ourselves clean, but when it comes to our ears, doctors say you might be doing more harm than good. OSF HealthCare audiologist Chris Workman says earwax or cerumen actually plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Workman says earwax is produced naturally in the ear canal and is made up of oils and dead skin.

He says earwax acts as a barrier, protecting your ears from dirt, debris, bugs, and even infections, and it helps keep the ear canal from drying out. In most cases, doctors say you shouldn’t do anything about it.

But if earwax builds up too much, Workman says the safest option is to visit your primary care provider or an ear, nose, and throat specialist, who can remove it safely, sometimes with warm water irrigation. And whatever you do, Dr. Workman says, don’t use cotton swabs.

Not cleaning your ears at all can lead to itching, pain, and even dizziness, but instead of digging inside, Workman recommends wiping only the outer part of your ear with a damp cloth. Some over-the-counter products can soften earwax, but he says you should check with your provider before using them. For people who wear hearing aids, earwax can cause extra problems.

If that happens, Workman says it may be time for a visit to your audiologist.  The bottom line, Dr. Workman says, is when it comes to ear care, less is more… and when in doubt, leave it to the professionals.