Updated / Wednesday, 7 Apr 2021 09:35 And no, it doesn't involve using cotton tips. It seems like everyone has an opinion on how to clean your ears correctly. Some people swear by Q-tipping their ears at least once a week, while others say it’s safer to let the wax build up naturally. So, what’s the correct answer? Dr. Deborah Lee from Dr. Fox Online Pharmacy reveals everything you need to know about safely cleaning your ears… What is earwax and why do our bodies produce it? You might be surprised to know that earwax contains no wax at all. "Earwax is produced by the cells lining your outer ear and ear canal," explains Lee. "It’s made up of sebum, a natural oily substance produced in the sebaceous glands, which becomes mixed with dead skin cells, sweat and dirt."