Itching in the inner and outer ear

Ear itching is an irritating or tickling sensation that causes a strong desire to scratch the affected area. Often, this condition manifests itself with redness, especially when the itching is caused by inflammation, or with scaling, if it is related to eczema. In any situation, it is advisable to refrain from scratching the itchy area in the first instance, allowing it to heal naturally, or to consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Itching in the outer ear

Itching in the outer ear, in the pavilion of the ear and any itchy irritation near the ear can be caused by skin diseases such as psoriasis, dermatitis or fungal infections.

Excessive cleansing, overuse of skin care products or overly aggressive products are also under the magnifying glass, as they can compromise the skin's natural protective layer, leading to further irritation and itching.

Itching and swelling in the outer ear can have several triggers, including:

• bacterial infections;
• fungal infections: infections such as candidiasis can cause itching and reddening of the skin around the ear;
• presence of external bodies in the ear canal;
• systemic conditions such as allergies or psoriasis;
• excessive accumulation of earwax;
• contact dermatitis: is a type of dermatitis often caused by allergens present in cosmetics or metals such as nickel in earrings;
• seborrhoeic dermatitis;
• external ear infections (otitis externa): an infection of the external ear canal that causes itching, swelling and sometimes pain;
• stress and anxiety.

It is recommended not to scratch the affected area and to consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and specific treatment. This could include applying moisturising creams and taking medication to relieve symptoms and improve the skin's well-being.

Itching in the inner ear

Itching in the inner ear is a phenomenon that can occur in both the left and right ear and is frequently related to irritation of the skin inside the ear canal, which can be caused by allergies, infections, or accumulation of earwax.

Some of the most frequent causes are listed below:

• infections: external otitis (known as swimmer's ear) or otitis media can cause itching, along with pain and other symptoms;
• allergic reactions: allergens such as pollen, dust, mould and others can irritate the sensitive skin of the inner ear, causing itching;
• accumulation of earwax: excess earwax can cause itching, especially if the earwax becomes hard and dry;
• dermatitis: skin conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis can also affect the ear canal, causing itching;
• foreign bodies: foreign objects, such as insects or small pieces of cotton, can cause itching if they get stuck in the ear;
• irritation from products: hair care products, soaps or lotions can irritate the skin of the inner ear.

How to solve ear itching: tips and treatments

The most common remedies for relieving itchy ears depend on its specific causes; in general, moisturising creams, especially those formulated with starch glycerolate, can be used for the various forms of itching.

Here are the different treatment options depending on the area affected by the irritation:

• Itching in the outer ear: a skin ointment is recommended. Ointments or cortisone creams, which are highly moisturising and mild, may be useful against fungal infections. It is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist to find the most suitable ointment for your condition.
• Itchy inner ear: it is advisable to avoid irritants such as harsh chemicals and instead opt for saline solutions or drops for gentle cleaning of the ear.

You should always consult your family doctor if the pain persists for days.