Dry ears can happen due to a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis. Treatment can depend on the cause, but may include steroid creams, eardrops, gentle cleaning, and more.
Dry ears can have many causes. It can be as simple as not being able to produce enough earwax or cleaning the ears too much. Dry ears can also be linked to skin allergies, and to other dry skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. In most cases, it can easily be treated.
Some people may worry about the appearance of loose, dry flakiness of skin in and around the ear. However, it is the accompanying itch that can cause the worst discomfort.
Dry ears can be the result of dry skin conditions that also affect other parts of the body. These conditions include the following:
- Eczema: Also known as atopic dermatitis, this can occur in the ear canal and can be extremely irritating. If it is in the ear, it is known as ear eczema.
- Psoriasis: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to grow faster than they are shed. This can result in dry, scaly patches and underlying redness, affecting the outer ear, scalp, and neck. Psoriasis can also make the skin itchy.
- Other types of dermatitis: This term describes inflammation of the skin. Different forms of dermatitis can be the result of an allergic reaction to shampoos or skin-cleansing products. They can also occur without any known causes, such as in the form of dermatitis known as dandruff.
Ear irritation can cause ears to dry out and become itchy. People who use hearing aids may develop dry ears due to the device irritating by rubbing against the delicate and sensitive skin in and around the ear. The materials that hearing aids are made from can also cause an allergic reaction.
The ears are self-cleaning and generally do not require manual or intensive cleaning. As such, dry ears are also commonly the result of over-cleaning. This removes the earwax and natural oils that are both important for maintaining good ear health.
The goal of any treatment plan for dry ears is often to stop any itching first and then to re-establish a healthy moisture balance in the ear. This can include a combination of medical treatments and home remedies.
Choice of treatment usually depends on the underlying problem. Eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis in the ear are treated in the same way, as they would be in other parts of the body.
Over-the-counter (OTC) steroid creams or ear drops combine an oily component with an anti-inflammatory steroid. Together, these relieve the itching and can help restore the moisture balance in cases of dry ears that are not infectious.
Steroid creams or drops should only be used as a temporary treatment, because long-term use can cause the skin to thin and to become fragile.
Depending on the underlying cause, a doctor may prescribe antifungal medication or antibiotics.
Using petroleum jelly can be helpful if dry ears are the result of dry or windy weather conditions. The aim is to remove irritants, such as dust while keeping the ear’s natural moisture balance. In harsh climates, both hot and cold, petroleum jelly can help soothe and moisturize dry ears.
Preparations containing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar are not usually helpful for dry ears but may help relieve itchy ears.
It is best not to use cotton swabs for cleaning. This is because they can push waxy debris further down the ear canal, leaving it to cause irritation and infection of the ear canal.
People can reduce the risk of dry ears by making some simple changes to their daily routines and lifestyles. example, if a perso
Heat is a common cause of dry ear, so it often helps to turn down the heating in winter and to avoid having very hot baths or showers. It also helps to keep your ears out of the sun.
A humidifier may benefit people who are prone to getting dry ears, especially if they live in drier climates or are regularly exposed to air-conditioning.
Mild soaps and skin cleansing products can avoid ear inflammation that could later lead to dry ears.
Additionally, if a person has an itchy ear, it is advisable for them to avoid scratching or rubbing their ears, as this can further irritate them.
People should contact a doctor if dryness or itchiness persists despite home care and over-the-counter remedies.
It is important to seek proper medical advice if the dry patches do any of the following:
- form crusts
- start oozing blood, fluid, or pus
- become red
- start hurting
If dry ears are being caused or made worse by over-cleaning, people may want to consider having a doctor clean their ears for them. This is usually done by gently flushing the ear with warm, sterile water.
How can I get rid of dry skin in my ears?
Many options are available to treat and manage dry skin in the ears. This can include using moisturizers, avoiding excessive temperatures, using a humidifier, avoiding allergens, and drinking sufficient amounts of water. Additionally, managing certain skin conditions can also help to prevent dry skin in the ears.
Why is the inside of my ear crusty?
The inside of a person’s ear may be crusty for many possible reasons. This can include certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. Environmental factors can also contribute. This can include dehydration, allergies, smoking, swimming, or excessive sun exposure. In some cases, an ear infection can also make the ear crusty.
What is the white flaky stuff in my ears?
If a person has a white flaky substance in their ears, it will generally either be dry skin, dead skin, or flaky earwax.
What causes dry flaky skin behind the ears?
Dry flaky skin behind the ears can occur for many reasons. These can include environmental factors, such as hot or cold weather and low humidity. Other causes can include certain skin or hair care products and certain skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Dry ears can occur for many reasons. This can include certain skin conditions, the environment, or certain lifestyle choices.
Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause. For example, if dry ears are due to a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, managing the condition should help to relieve symptoms. In other cases, a person can use OTC treatments and gentle cleaning to help relieve itchy ears.