Step-by-Step Instructions for Ear Candles

Ear candles are strips of muslin dipped in beeswax and rolled into cones. Proponents and manufacturers claim that sticking an ear candle into the ear canal and lighting it creates a vacuum that draws wax buildup and toxins out of the ear. Ear candling is offered in many spas, but if you want to save money, you can purchase the candles online or in a health food store and do the treatment at home. Because you are sticking a lit object into the ear, never attempt to use ear candles alone. Have a friend assist you with the procedure.

Things You'll Need

• Pillow
• Towel
• Scissors
• Paper plate
• Lighter or match
• Glass of water
• Washcloth

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Instructions

• 1

  Have the person receiving the ear candling treatment lie on his side. Place a pillow under his head to keep his head and neck straight and his ear level. Brush his hair away from his ear and lay a towel over his hair to protect it from the flame.

• 2

  Trim the narrow end of the candle with a pair of scissors so it fits snugly inside the recipient's ear.

• 3

  Snip an X in the center of the paper plate with a pair of sharp scissors. Stick the narrow end of the ear candle through the plate a few inches. The plate will act as a face guard and collect any debris from the top of the candle.

• 4

  Hold your finger over the narrow end of the ear candle and light the wide end with a lighter or matches. Allow the smoke to accumulate inside the candle for 10 seconds.

• 5

  Place the narrow end of the cone gently but firmly into the ear and twist slightly to ensure a good seal.

• 6

  Allow the ear candle to burn down until approximately 6 inches remain. Remove the candle from the ear and extinguish it in a glass of water.

• 7

  Have the recipient wipe any residue out of his ear with a clean, damp washcloth.