ByHearology Publishing | Date: Thu Jul 10 2025

Image of ears with different colors of earwax coming out of the ear and placed on a cotton bud

From black to green, shifts in colour could signal infections or more serious conditions

Most people think little of earwax, and when they do it is in the context of “ick”. But changes in its colour can reveal important information about your health. While normal earwax ranges from yellow to light brown, audiologists are urging people to pay closer attention to more unusual shades.

Properly known as cerumen, earwax is produced by glands in the ear canal to protect against dust, bacteria and irritation. But shifts in its colour or texture may be the body’s way of flagging an issue.


When red means trouble

Red or bloody earwax may indicate a minor scratch or infection, but, in rare cases, it could signal something more serious. “Persistent bleeding from the ear should never be ignored,” said Hannah Samuels, an audiologist at Boots. She warned that, while uncommon, it could be a sign of ear cancer, particularly if accompanied by pain or discharge. Cancer Research UK has linked this symptom to tumours in the ear canal.


Green and black: signs of infection

Green earwax is often associated with bacterial infections and tends to appear alongside other symptoms such as itching, swelling or pus. Similarly, black earwax may be the result of a fungal infection or accumulated dirt and debris. It can also simply be old and dried out, especially if it has been left unremoved for an extended period.

Dark brown or orange wax, often caused by dry skin or excessive exposure to dust, might also suggest that the wax has been in the ear for a longer time. While not always cause for concern, any sudden change in consistency or volume warrants attention.


When to seek advice

Unusual earwax colours, especially if accompanied by pain, hearing loss or discharge, should be checked by a medical professional. Excess wax can contribute to conditions such as tinnitus and temporary hearing impairment, but safe removal by a trained audiologist can usually resolve the issue quickly.

“Earwax might not be glamorous, but it’s an important indicator of what’s happening inside your ears,” said Irene Wong, a Hearology® Clinical Audiologist. “If your earwax suddenly changes in colour, consistency or smell, your body’s trying to tell you something, and it’s worth listening to. We recommend regular checks to prevent build-up and catch infections early. It is one of the simplest things people can do to protect their hearing.”


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