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With review and feedback from CEENTA ENT doctor Mark Abrams, MD (Rock Hill)
It’s not uncommon to have a thin layer of fine hair on your outer ears. However, some people grow longer, thicker hair. This may even have happened to you. What is it, and what can you do about it?
Scientists aren’t sure why some people grow extra hair on the outside of their ears. It is more common in men, however, particularly those from South Asia. Since some people can get more as they age, some doctors believe it is caused by increased testosterone.
In rare cases, babies born to diabetic women can have hairy ears. The better diabetes is controlled, the less likely the baby is to have hair on their ears.
In most cases, ear hair is harmless. However, it can sometimes grow in the ear canals. This can create a higher risk for an outer ear infection, also known as swimmer’s ear. This is because more hair gives water and bacteria more places to collect and cause an infection.
This outer hair is not the same as the hair in the inner ear. The inner ear hairs are tiny and create nerve signals when cochlear fluid is vibrated. Those nerve signals are sent to the brain, where they are translated into sounds.
Fortunately, outer ear hair can easily be removed if you don’t like how it looks. Just shave it or pluck it, or have it removed with wax or laser hair removal.
“As has been said by my dad, “it’s ironic that I can’t get hair to grow on my head anymore but sure can’t stop it on places like my ear and nose!” CEENTA ENT doctor Mark Abrams, MD, said.
Whether your ears are hairy or smooth, the ENT doctors at CEENTA are here to treat them. If you have concerns about your ears, schedule an appointment today.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.
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