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What Substitutes Can Be Used Instead of Sweet Oil?

Sweet oil is used with a dropper in the ear to soften hardened wax. The oil keeps the wax from being too hard to remove or clogging the ear canal. There are several substitutions for sweet oil as it is simply a "base" or "carrier" oil containing no other ingredients. All oils can be warmed for a few seconds in the microwave to help soften wax.

  1. Olive Oil

    • Olive oil is typically the only ingredient in sweet oil. Olive oil is a safe, non-toxic way to soften hardened ear wax without purchasing an additional oil. Olive oil isn't typically used as a carrier oil in bath or perfume products because it can interfere with the overall smell. Olive oil has many health benefits and cancer fighting antioxidants, and some of its healthful properties are absorbed when used topically. Applying one drop of olive oil is sufficient.

    Sweet Almond Oil

    • Sweet almond oil is also often used as the main ingredient in sweet oil products. Sweet almond oil has a thinner and lighter feel than olive oil and is used widely in organic bath products and perfumes because it lacks smell. Sweet almond oil also has several health benefits and is a great skin softener and works well to soften ear wax. Applying one to two drops in or around the ear is sufficient.

    Rose Hip Seed Oil

    • Rose hip seed oil is typically the most often used carrier oil in organic topical skin products. Rose hip seed oil has a slightly dry herbal smell. Rose hip seed oil is best made from organic roses and works well to soften skin and wax in the ear. Rose hip seed oil is slightly thicker than sweet almond oil. One to two drops is sufficient for softening ear wax. When used in skin products, rose hip seed oil typically constitutes 10 to 20 percent of the mixture.

    Coconut Oil

    • Coconut oil is being used more often in cooking for its numerous health benefits. Coconut oil is anti-inflammatory, antiviral, moisturizing and soothing, making it perfect for an earache associated with wax buildup. Rub coconut oil around the ear canal and put one drop gently inside with an eye dropper.

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