Contrary to popular belief, ear wax is naturally secreted by the body to keep the ears clean and free from infections. However, excessive ear wax production can result in build-up, which could cause a range of health problems—the major one being hearing loss.
In response to the growing trend of prioritizing health and wellness, consumers have taken an interest in ear wax removal.
There are, however, several ear wax removal tools available on the market, and choosing the best tool is often dependent on how much ear wax the consumer wishes to get rid of. This article explores five hot trends businesses should leverage in 2024.
Table of Contents
Will ear wax removal tools be profitable in 2024?
5 ear wax removal tool trends to watch out for in 2024
Final words
Will ear wax removal tools be profitable in 2024?
According to experts, the global ear wax removal tools market was valued at US $2.0 billion in 2021. It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2022 to 2030.
The reason for this growth can be attributed to the rising awareness of the effects of ear wax buildup on health and the increase in consumers’ desire for better personal hygiene.
Based on region, Asia-Pacific is recorded to hold one of the largest shares in the ear wax removal market.
5 ear wax removal tool trends to watch out for in 2024
1. Ear drops
Ear drops are a chemical solution for various ear issues, including ear infections, itchiness, ear pain, and ear wax removal. They are generally safe for use, but to avoid complications, the user should obtain instructions on proper use from a licensed medical professional.
Consumers express interest in ear drops because they are a non-invasive way of ear wax removal. They are also seen as the cheaper and most convenient option depending on the product type required by the consumer.
Although ear drops are easy to self-administer, wrongful application can lead to a high risk of ear infection and, in some cases, damage to the eardrum.
Based on Google reports, the keyword “ear drops” records 135,000 average monthly search queries from consumers. The search term has also maintained a 7–9% rise from November 2022 to October 2023.
2. Cotton buds
Cotton buds are the most easily accessible ear wax removal tool available to consumers.
They are made of plastic or wood with absorbent cotton fixed to both ends. They also come in various colors, the most popular being white.
Healthcare practitioners do not recommend cotton buds as a good option for ear wax removal because they only do superficial ear cleaning. It’s worth noting that using cotton buds may push more ear wax down the ear canal, resulting in hearing loss, infection, and other issues.
Despite safety concerns, cotton buds are still considered a home toilet cabinet essential by consumers because of their familiarity with the product and the fact that it is a cheaper option. It is important to note that for consumers concerned about the environment, cotton buds are available in biodegradable materials, which reduce pollution.
Google Ads data shows that this ear wax removal tool has two high-performing keywords: “cotton swabs” and “cotton buds.” The first one has maintained 49,500 searches since 2022, while the second boosted from its average 40,500 queries to 49,500 in October 2023.
3. Ear sprays
Ear sprays are similar in purpose to ear drops but differ in their mode of application. They are liquids that come in different kinds: water-based compounds (e.g., isotonic solution, saline solution, or sodium bicarbonate), oil‐based compounds (e.g., tea tree oil, mineral oil, or olive oil), non‐oil‐based solutions (hydrogen peroxide or aloe vera), or a combination of the aforementioned.
Consumers opt for ear sprays because they are easier to administer than ear drops and do not require a precise hand-in application. Google Ads data proves they are some of the most popular techniques. From May 2023 to August, ear sprays maintained a steady 27,100 search queries. In September, they surged to 33,100 searches, carrying that number over to October 2023.
Ear sprays are the perfect solution for ear wax removal and prevention of ear infections. However, the type of ear spray administered to a consumer will differ on a case-by-case basis.
Ear sprays may not be the best choice for some consumers because of ear sensitivity, possible allergies, and existing ear pain or injuries. Consumers continue to purchase ear sprays because they have gentle application on the ears.
4. Ear syringing/ear irrigation
Ear irrigation is an ear cleansing procedure used to eliminate excessive buildup of earwax. It involves using a syringe to flush out the ear with warm water or a solution. Consumers prioritizing their comfort and convenience see ear irrigation as the best choice.
The increased use of ear syringing can be attributed to the world tilting more toward disposable supplies. As a result, reports from Google Ads show that ear syringing receives an impressive 368,000 searches monthly—and it has been that way since 2022.
For ear irrigation to be accurately administered, a trained medical professional is required because ear irrigation is a strict procedure that requires precision and tests before the consumer can be treated.
This, however, has not stopped manufacturers from creating ear irrigation tool kits for consumers to buy at a pharmacy. Despite the concerns of carrying out ear irrigation procedures on oneself, some consumers prefer buying the tool kit because it is a more budget-friendly option than seeking medical assistance.
For either method a consumer deems fit, ear irrigation should never be carried out on anyone who has just been through an ear surgery, has a perforated eardrum, or has a history of ear infections and ear trauma.
5. Micro suction
For consumers with ear sensitivity and a tendency toward ear irritation, micro-suction is a great choice for ear wax removal. Before a doctor commences the micro suction procedure, an examination is carried out on the patient’s affected ear.
First, the doctor uses an otoscope to locate the blockage in the ear. Once this is done, they probe the ear and release the ear wax with the micro suction wand.
Micro suction is contested to be the best ear wax removal procedure because it is swift and does not introduce moisture into the ear. Because this procedure does not use water and solutions, there is less risk of irritation, catering to consumers with serious ear sensitivity.
It is also a great choice because, unlike ear irrigation, it is suitable for consumers with a history of ear trauma or those who have undergone ear surgery. The advantages are many, but all that makes micro suction an expensive choice that cannot possibly cater to all budgets.
Google Ads data shows that micro-suction ear wax removal averages 8,100 monthly searches. Although it increased to 9,000 searches in September 2023, interest returned to 8,100 the following month.
Final words
There are several ear wax removal methods available on the market. However, the use of each technique depends on the severity of the consumer’s ear wax blockage.
For serious cases of ear wax build-up, ear irrigation and micro-suction seem to be the best options. Consumers who desire quick relief on a budget can always opt for cotton buds or ear drops.
Statistics prove that this market is bursting with profit potential, so hop onto these trends to leverage their potential in 2024.
