What is Hopi ear candling?
Hopi ear candling is a complementary therapy sometimes offered in wellness or medical aesthetics clinics. It involves placing a hollow, fabric candle into the outer ear canal and lighting the exposed end. The candle is believed by some to create a gentle warming effect and a sense of relaxation.
Important: Hopi ear candling is not a medical treatment and is not proven to remove earwax or treat medical ear conditions.
What is it commonly used for?
Some clients choose ear candling to support:
- Relaxation and wellbeing
- A feeling of pressure relief in the ears or sinuses
- Tension headaches
- A calming treatment experience
Scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and results vary between individuals.
How does the treatment work?
- You will lie comfortably on your side
- A candle is gently placed at the entrance of the ear (not deep into the canal)
- The candle is lit and allowed to burn for a short period
- The process may be repeated on the other ear
- The treatment typically lasts 30–45 minutes
Protective measures are used to reduce the risk of wax or ash falling onto the skin.
What will it feel like?
Most people describe the experience as:
- Warm
- Relaxing
- Soothing
You may hear a faint crackling sound from the candle burning. The treatment should not be painful.
Does ear candling remove earwax?
No. Medical evidence shows that ear candling does not remove earwax. Any residue seen inside the candle after treatment comes from the candle material itself, not from the ear.
Earwax should only be removed using clinically approved methods such as microsuction or irrigation performed by trained professionals.
Possible risks and side effects
Although generally considered low risk when performed carefully, potential risks include:
- Burns to the ear, face, or hair
- Wax or debris entering the ear canal
- Ear canal irritation
- Perforation of the eardrum (rare but serious)
For this reason, ear candling should only be performed by trained practitioners and is not suitable for everyone.
Who should NOT have ear candling?
Ear candling is not recommended if you have:
- Ear infection or ear pain
- Perforated eardrum or grommets
- Recent ear surgery
- Tinnitus or hearing loss of unknown cause
- Excessive earwax blockage
- Allergies to candle materials
- Children or vulnerable adults
Always inform your practitioner of any ear-related symptoms or medical history.
Aftercare advice
- Avoid water entering the ears for 24 hours
- Avoid inserting objects (including cotton buds) into the ears
- Seek medical advice if you experience pain, dizziness, discharge, or hearing changes
Medical disclaimer
Hopi ear candling is a complementary therapy and should not be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. It does not treat ear disease or remove wax. If you have ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, or ongoing symptoms, you should consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Consent & safety
- A consultation is required prior to treatment
- Individual experiences and outcomes vary
- Treatment is undertaken at the client’s discretion
- Written consent is recommended