Cerumen (earwax) development is a natural process in humans and many other mammals. Cerumen moisturizes and protects the skin of the external auditory canal, acting as a shield against insects and water. Cerumen is typically removed from the ear canal on its own as a result of normal jaw movement. The self-cleaning mechanism, however, may fail in some people, causing cerumen to become impacted. 1st [two] Cerumen impaction can cause ear pain, conductive hearing loss, and scratching by occluding the canal or pressing against the tympanic membrane. Cerumen impaction affects up to 6% of the general population, with 10% of children and more than 30% of the elderly being affected.