Hydrogen Peroxide Ear Drops

Hydrogen peroxide ear drops are safe for all ears, even if you have grommets or a perforated eardrum.

What You’ll Need:

  1. 3% Hydrogen Peroxide – Available over the counter at any pharmacy.

  2. A 3-5ml syringe or medicine dropper.

When you apply this solution, you may feel a warm, tingling sensation and hear a bubbling or fizzing sound, similar to the "snap, crackle, and pop" of Rice Bubbles.

Instructions:

  1. Tilt your head to the side. Use the syringe or dropper to place about 1-3ml of the hydrogen peroxide solution into the ear.

  2. Gently press on the "triangles" of skin and cartilage on your outer ear for 10-15 seconds to help the solution move around in the ear canal.

  3. Let it bubble and fizz!

  4. For best results, let the solution bubble in your ear for up to 1 minute. If you're using it for the first time, you may only be able to tolerate the sensation for a few seconds, and that’s fine.

  5. After the solution has worked, tilt your head the other way and let the excess solution drain onto a tissue. Allow your ear to dry naturally; this will only take a minute or so.

How Often Should You Use It?

  • For treating ear infections (outer or middle ear): Use three times a day, along with any antibiotic drops prescribed by Dr. McKenzie. Remember, peroxide can interfere with the antibiotic ear drops, so wait at least 30 minutes between using hydrogen peroxide and the antibiotic drops (use hydrogen peroxide first).

  • For recurrent outer ear infections (otitis externa): If you notice the first signs of an ear infection, use the hydrogen peroxide drops three times a day for a week. If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, please consult your GP or Dr. McKenzie.

  • To prevent excessive wax buildup: Use hydrogen peroxide according to how often your ears get blocked. If your ears typically need cleaning 3 times a year, use the drops 3 times a week. For twice yearly cleanings, use it twice a week, and so on.

  • For blocked ears: If your ears are blocked with wax, use hydrogen peroxide 2-3 times a day for two weeks before your appointment. This may loosen the wax or even clear it out, potentially eliminating the need for professional cleaning.

Important:

If you experience pain or discomfort using the hydrogen peroxide, or if your condition worsens, stop using it and consult Dr. McKenzie.