Does ear candling work?

Research has shown that ear candling is not an effective way to remove ear wax, according to Mayo Clinic. Research shows that the opposite may be true, and the process can push ear wax deeper into the ear canal.

Ear candling is also sometimes used for such conditions as sinus infections or to improve hearing, according to Mayo Clinic; however, the same research shows that ear candling is not an effective treatment for any medical condition. Ear candling can also result in injury or other unwanted side effects, such as burns to the scalp, ear canal or inner ear and filling the ear canal with candle wax. The process may also puncture the ear drum.