Itchy Ears: 8 Possible Causes (& What to Do)

Itchy ears can happen when the skin inside or around the ear becomes dry, irritated, inflamed, or infected. Common causes include low ear wax, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, hearing aids, cotton swabs, ear plugs, and trapped moisture.

Itchy ears may also occur with redness, peeling skin, swelling, ear pain, fever, discharge, pus, bleeding, or hearing loss. These symptoms can be a sign of conditions such as otitis externa or fungal otitis, which should be assessed by an ENT doctor or dermatologist.

Treatment for itchy ears depends on the cause and may include hydrating creams, soothing ointments, ear drops, corticosteroids, antifungals, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics. Avoiding objects in the ear canal, keeping hearing aids clean, and staying away from irritating products can help prevent symptoms from returning.

Why are my ears itchy?

The main causes of itchy ears are: 

1. Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory condition triggered by an overreaction of the immune system to a harmless fungus called malassezia, which lives naturally on the skin.

This type of dermatitis often causes itchy ears along with greasy, yellowish scaling. It can also lead to inflammation within the ear canal or along the hairline behind the ear.

What to do: You should consult an otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT doctor, for a professional evaluation and an appropriate treatment plan. A doctor may prescribe creams, ear drops, or ointments containing corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or antifungals to manage the condition. Read more about treatment for seborrheic dermatitis and the options your doctor may recommend for you.

2. Decreased ear wax 

Decreased ear wax can lead to dryness within the ear canal, causing itchiness. This is because ear wax contains many lubricating properties, and decreased production of it can lead to dryness, skin peeling and itching in the ear. 

What to do: In most cases, decreased ear wax is occurs from excessive cleaning with cotton swabs, which removes all wax from the ear and making the inner ear more prone to injury. You should clean your ears with the corner of a towel or a wet cotton swab to avoid full removal. 

3. Contact dermatitis

Itching on the outer ear, often accompanied by scaling, dryness, and redness or skin discoloration, is a common sign of contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to materials that touch the area, such as shampoos, hair gels, sprays, dyes, perfumes, jewelry, or even earplugs and headphones.

What to do: If you suspect contact dermatitis, it is important to see an otolaryngologist or a dermatologist for a diagnosis.

A specialist can confirm the cause and recommend a treatment plan, which typically involves using emollient creams and topical corticosteroids.

Additionally, identifying and avoiding the specific substance causing the reaction is essential for long-term relief.

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the appearance of red and dry patches that are painful and itchy. In most cases, psoriasis lesions are found on the arms, hands, legs and scalp, however they can also affect the ears and cause similar symptoms. Learn more about what causes psoriasis and the common symptoms associated with it. 

What to do: You should consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment approach for relieving symptoms and preventing further episodes. The doctor may prescribe topical or oral medications and recommend phototherapy. Diet can also play a role in preventing flare-ups. Read more about the psoriasis diet that your doctor may recommend to better manage your symptoms. 

5. Outer ear infection

An outer ear infection, or otitis externa, affects the ear canal, and can occur due to the growth of microorganisms within the ear, as well as the introduction of small objects, or frequent use of cotton swabs or earphones. It is associated with inflammation in the ear and other symptoms like pain, itchiness, fever, redness, swelling and white or yellow ear discharge. 

What to do: You should see a doctor to initiate the best treatment, which will depend on the underlying cause. The doctor may recommend medications to promote elimination of discharge in the ear, anti-inflammatories or antibiotics. 

6. Using hearing aids

Using hearing aids can lead to the accumulation of trapped water in the ear, increasing the risk for inflammation and infection in the area. Using hearing aids can increase skin irritation, which causes pressure within the ear canal.

What to do: Hearing aids should be chosen as directed by a hearing aid specialist or doctor. This will guarantee that the equipment selected is adequate for achieving the patient’s goals. You should also provide maintenance to the hearing aids as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent infection and outer ear swelling. Remember to remove them when exercising or showering, and to clean them regularly. 

If you notice water is trapped in the ear, check out these ways to unplug your ears at home. 

7. Fungal otitis

Fungal otitis, also known as otomycosis, is an infection in the ear canal caused by fungi such as Aspergillus or Candida.

An itchy ear is the most frequent symptom, often accompanied by the buildup of thick debris or discharge within the canal.

What to do It is important to visit an otolaryngologist, who can safely clean the ear canal to remove secretions, debris, and fungal growth.

The physician may also recommend prescription ear drops, including antifungals, corticosteroids, or acetic acid solutions, to treat the infection.

8. Objects in the ear canal 

Using irritating objects, like cotton swabs and ear plugs, can cause itchiness and result in serious damage in the ear. 

What to do: To prevent itchiness, you should avoid inserting objects in the ear and opt for other safer options. If you notice ear damage or injury, you should see a doctor for assessment. 

When to see a doctor

Most cases of itchy ears can be resolved without specific treatment. However, if you notice symptoms like bleeding, discharge, pus, or hearing loss, you should see a doctor to determine the underlying problem. 

The doctor should evaluate the signs and symptoms occurring with the itchiness to determine whether the is excessive or insufficient production of ear wax, eczema, psoriasis or an infection.