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Numark Olive Oil Ear Drop

Numark Olive Oil Ear Drop

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  • ✔️ Softens and loosens hardened earwax gently and naturally
  • ✔️ Contains 100% Olive Oil BP — single, clean ingredient
  • ✔️ NHS-recommended first-line treatment for earwax build-up
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Helps prepare ears for irrigation — reducing need for syringing

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What Are Olive Oil Ear Drops and How Do They Help?

 

Earwax is something most of us don't think about — until it becomes a problem. When wax builds up and hardens inside the ear canal, it can cause muffled hearing, a sensation of fullness, or even mild discomfort. Olive oil ear drops offer a simple, gentle, and clinically recognised way to soften that wax so it can clear naturally. Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops contain 100% Olive Oil BP, making them a straightforward, single-ingredient solution you can use at home without a prescription. You can find them alongside other ear, nose, and throat remedies in our Ear, Nose & Throat collection.

At just £3.19, this product is an accessible first step before considering more involved procedures like ear irrigation. The NHS itself recommends olive oil as a first-line treatment for earwax, which speaks to how well-established this approach is.

 

How Do Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops Work?

 

The mechanism is straightforward, but it's worth understanding why it works so well. Earwax — medically known as cerumen — is a natural secretion produced by glands in the outer ear canal. It's there to protect and lubricate the ear. Problems arise when it accumulates faster than it can migrate outward on its own.

  • Olive oil penetrates the hardened wax and begins to soften its structure.
  • As the wax softens, it becomes less adherent to the canal walls.
  • The ear's natural self-cleaning mechanism can then move the loosened wax towards the outer ear.
  • Over several days of use, significant wax build-up can reduce without any physical intervention.

There's no active pharmaceutical ingredient here beyond the oil itself — and that's the point. It's a gentle, mechanical process rather than a chemical one.

 

Who Should Use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for a wide range of people dealing with earwax-related symptoms. They're particularly useful if you've noticed a gradual decline in hearing clarity, a blocked or full feeling in one or both ears, or mild earache that your GP has attributed to wax build-up. They're also commonly used before an ear irrigation appointment to help soften the wax in advance.

  • Adults and children over 12 years experiencing earwax build-up
  • People preparing for ear irrigation or microsuction
  • Those who wear hearing aids and are prone to wax accumulation
  • Anyone seeking a gentle, preservative-free earwax softener

They are not suitable for people with a perforated eardrum, active ear infection, or grommets in place. If you're unsure whether your symptoms are caused by wax or something else, always check with your pharmacist or GP first.

 

How Do Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops Compare to Other Earwax Drops?

 

Feature Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops
Active ingredient Olive Oil BP 100% Sodium bicarbonate 5%
Mechanism Softens and lubricates wax Dissolves and breaks down wax
Suitable for sensitive ears Yes — natural, preservative-free Generally yes, but may cause mild stinging
NHS recommended Yes Yes

 

Is Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

These drops can be used regularly as a preventative measure if you're prone to wax build-up, particularly if you wear hearing aids or use in-ear headphones frequently. Using olive oil ear drops two to three times a week on an ongoing basis is a common approach recommended by audiologists for wax-prone individuals. That said, if symptoms persist beyond a few weeks or worsen, it's worth seeking professional advice rather than continuing to self-treat.

Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children. Once opened, check the product leaflet for the in-use shelf life. If you're looking for other products to support your general health routine, our Vitamins and Supplements collection has a wide range of options worth exploring.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops specifications
Treatment category Earwax removal / Cerumenolytic
Mechanism of action Softens and lubricates hardened earwax to aid natural expulsion
Effective for Earwax build-up, blocked ears, pre-irrigation softening
Suitable for Adults and children over 12 years
Active ingredient Olive Oil BP 100%
Pack size 10ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Cerumenolytic (earwax softener)
Preparation Ear drops (liquid)
Route of administration Otic (into the ear canal)

Specifications of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops

 

What Is Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops and What Is It Used For?

 

Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops contain 100% Olive Oil BP as the sole ingredient. They are used to soften, loosen, and help remove excess earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal. Earwax is a normal and protective substance, but when it accumulates in excess — particularly in people who use hearing aids, cotton buds, or in-ear devices — it can cause symptoms including reduced hearing, a blocked sensation, tinnitus, or mild earache. These drops work by hydrating and softening the wax so that it can migrate out of the ear naturally, or be more easily removed during professional ear irrigation.

This product is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription. It is intended for use in adults and children aged 12 years and over.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

 

Before using these drops, it's important to check that they are appropriate for your situation. Do not use them if any of the following apply to you:

  • You have or suspect you have a perforated (burst) eardrum
  • You have an active ear infection (otitis externa or otitis media)
  • You have grommets or other ear tubes in place
  • You have had ear surgery in the past 12 months
  • You are under 12 years of age (seek advice from a pharmacist or GP for younger children)
  • You have any discharge coming from the ear

If you experience sudden hearing loss, severe pain, or dizziness alongside your ear symptoms, do not self-treat — see a GP promptly as these may indicate a more serious condition.

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topical olive oil ear drops.
  • If you are using other ear drops prescribed by your doctor, ask your pharmacist before combining them.

 

How Should You Use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

 

Getting the technique right makes a real difference to how well these drops work. Follow these steps carefully each time you use them:

  1. Warm the bottle gently by holding it in your hands for one to two minutes — cold oil can cause dizziness if instilled directly.
  2. Tilt your head to one side so the affected ear faces upward.
  3. Gently pull the outer ear upward and backward to straighten the ear canal.
  4. Instil the recommended number of drops into the ear canal.
  5. Stay in the tilted position for five to ten minutes to allow the oil to penetrate the wax.
  6. Place a small piece of cotton wool loosely at the ear opening to absorb any excess — do not push it in.
  7. Repeat in the other ear if needed.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Earwax softening Adults & children 12+ 2–3 drops per ear 2–3 times daily for 3–5 days
Pre-irrigation preparation Adults & children 12+ 2–3 drops per ear Twice daily for up to 2 weeks before appointment

If you're also managing other health concerns, our Pain Relief collection includes options for mild earache associated with wax build-up, though always confirm the cause with a healthcare professional first.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

 

Olive oil ear drops are very well tolerated by most people. Because the active ingredient is a natural oil rather than a synthetic chemical, the risk of adverse reactions is low. That said, it's worth knowing what to look out for.

Common side effects:

  • Temporary sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
  • Mild warmth inside the ear canal after instillation
  • Slight oiliness around the outer ear

Less common side effects:

  • Mild itching inside the ear canal
  • Temporary worsening of muffled hearing as wax softens and shifts position
  • Skin irritation around the outer ear in people with very sensitive skin

If you notice any pain, discharge, bleeding, or significant worsening of symptoms after using these drops, stop use immediately and contact your GP or pharmacist. These could indicate an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

 

How Should You Store Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the product throughout its shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Do not store in the bathroom — humidity can affect the product

If you're browsing for other health essentials, take a look at our First Aid collection for a range of products to keep your home medicine cabinet well stocked.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops online in the UK?

You can buy Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £3.19. No prescription is required as this is an over-the-counter General Sale List medicine. Simply add to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option at checkout.

How do olive oil ear drops work to remove earwax?

Olive oil works by penetrating and softening hardened cerumen (earwax), reducing its adhesion to the walls of the ear canal. Once softened, the wax can migrate naturally towards the outer ear and clear on its own. This is a gentle, mechanical process — there are no harsh chemicals involved, which is why the NHS recommends it as a first-line approach.

How do I use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops step by step?

Warm the bottle in your hands for a minute or two, then tilt your head so the affected ear faces upward. Instil 2 to 3 drops into the ear canal, stay in that position for five to ten minutes, then sit upright and wipe away any excess oil. Repeat two to three times daily for three to five days, or as directed by your pharmacist.

How many drops of olive oil should I put in my ear?

The standard recommendation is 2 to 3 drops per affected ear, applied two to three times daily. This is consistent with NHS guidance on using olive oil for earwax softening. Always check the product leaflet for the specific instructions included with your bottle, and speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions about dosage.

How long does it take for olive oil ear drops to work?

Most people notice an improvement within three to five days of consistent use. For more stubborn or heavily impacted wax, it may take up to two weeks before the blockage fully clears. If your symptoms haven't improved after two weeks of regular use, it's worth speaking to your GP or pharmacist about further options such as ear irrigation.

Can I use olive oil ear drops if I have a perforated eardrum?

No — you should not use any ear drops, including olive oil drops, if you have or suspect you have a perforated eardrum. Using drops with a perforated eardrum can allow fluid to enter the middle ear and potentially cause infection or further damage. If you're unsure about the condition of your eardrum, always consult your GP before using any ear drops.

Are Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops safe for children?

These drops are suitable for children aged 12 years and over. For children under 12, you should seek advice from a pharmacist or GP before using any earwax drops, as younger children may need a different approach. Our Baby and Toddler collection includes products specifically formulated for younger age groups.

What are the side effects of using olive oil ear drops?

Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops are generally very well tolerated. Some people may experience a temporary feeling of fullness or mild warmth in the ear after instillation, and occasionally mild itching around the ear canal. Serious side effects are rare, but if you notice pain, discharge, or bleeding, stop use immediately and contact your GP.

Can I use olive oil ear drops if I have an ear infection?

No. You should not use olive oil ear drops — or any ear drops — if you have an active ear infection. Ear infections require medical assessment and may need antibiotic treatment. Using drops in an infected ear could worsen the condition or mask symptoms that need proper treatment. See your GP if you suspect an ear infection.

What are the alternatives to olive oil ear drops for earwax removal?

Common alternatives include sodium bicarbonate ear drops and carbamide peroxide-based drops, both of which also soften earwax and are available over the counter. If drops alone don't resolve the blockage, your GP or practice nurse may recommend ear irrigation (ear syringing) or microsuction performed by an audiologist. You can browse related products in our Ear, Nose & Throat collection.

How long can I use olive oil ear drops for?

For treating an active earwax blockage, use the drops for three to five days, or up to two weeks if preparing for ear irrigation. For ongoing prevention in wax-prone individuals, using two to three drops two to three times per week is a commonly recommended approach. If you need to use them continuously for longer than a month, it's worth checking in with your pharmacist or GP.

What happens if I miss a dose of olive oil ear drops?

If you forget to use your drops at the scheduled time, simply apply them as soon as you remember and then continue with your usual routine. There's no need to double up on doses to compensate for a missed application. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — regular use over several days is what produces results.

Can I use olive oil ear drops while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Topical olive oil ear drops are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as the oil is not absorbed systemically in any meaningful quantity. However, as with any medicine used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it's always sensible to check with your midwife, GP, or pharmacist before use to ensure it's appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Is it safe to use olive oil ear drops if I wear hearing aids?

Yes — in fact, people who wear hearing aids are more prone to earwax build-up because the device can interfere with the ear's natural self-cleaning process. Using olive oil ear drops regularly can help manage this. Just make sure you remove your hearing aid before applying the drops and allow the oil to fully absorb before reinserting the device.

What does the latest research say about olive oil for earwax removal?

The NHS continues to recommend olive oil as a first-line treatment for earwax softening, and it remains one of the most widely used cerumenolytics in UK primary care. Clinical guidance from NICE and the BNF supports its use as a safe and effective option for softening earwax prior to removal. While some studies have explored whether water-based drops may dissolve wax more quickly, olive oil remains a well-evidenced and widely recommended choice.

How Should You Use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

Using these drops correctly is key to getting the best results. The technique is simple, but a few small details — like warming the bottle first — can make a noticeable difference to both comfort and effectiveness.

Follow these steps each time you apply the drops:

What Is the Correct Dose of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

The dose is the same for all adults and children aged 12 and over. There is no need to adjust the number of drops based on age within this group, though you should always follow the instructions in the product leaflet.

The table below summarises the recommended dosing by indication:

When Is the Best Time to Use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

There is no single "best" time of day, but many people find it easiest to use the drops in the morning and evening — for example, after waking and before bed. Using them at night means you can lie still for longer after application, giving the oil more time to work on the wax before you're up and moving around.

Avoid using the drops immediately before inserting a hearing aid or in-ear headphones. Give the oil at least 15 to 20 minutes to settle before reinserting any device into the ear canal.

How Long Can You Use Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops For?

For an active earwax blockage, use the drops for three to five days. If you are preparing for ear irrigation, your GP or nurse may advise using them for up to two weeks beforehand to ensure the wax is adequately softened. For people who are prone to recurrent wax build-up — particularly hearing aid users — using the drops two to three times per week on an ongoing basis is a commonly recommended preventative strategy.

If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the drops and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops are one of the most gently tolerated earwax treatments available. Because the active ingredient is a natural oil rather than a synthetic compound, the likelihood of experiencing side effects is low. Most people complete a full course without any issues at all.

Common side effects that some people may notice include:

  • A temporary sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear after instillation
  • Mild warmth inside the ear canal — particularly if the oil was not warmed before use
  • Slight oiliness around the outer ear or on the pillow if used at night
  • A temporary, slight worsening of muffled hearing as the wax softens and shifts position within the canal

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

Less commonly, a small number of people may experience mild irritation in or around the ear. These effects are usually short-lived and resolve on their own once you stop using the drops or allow the ear to settle.

  • Mild itching inside the ear canal
  • Skin irritation or redness around the outer ear, particularly in people with sensitive skin
  • A brief sensation of dizziness immediately after instillation — most often caused by using cold drops rather than warming the bottle first

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops?

Serious side effects from olive oil ear drops are very rare when the product is used as directed. However, there are certain symptoms that should prompt you to stop using the drops immediately and seek medical advice. These are not typical side effects of the product itself — they usually indicate an underlying condition that needs assessment.

Stop use and contact your GP or pharmacist if you experience any of the following:

  • Ear pain that is worsening rather than improving
  • Any discharge or fluid coming from the ear
  • Bleeding from the ear canal
  • Sudden or significant loss of hearing
  • Persistent dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo)

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as temporary fullness or slight itching, no specific action is usually needed — these typically resolve on their own. Make sure you are warming the bottle before use, as this alone can prevent the most common discomfort. If irritation around the outer ear persists, clean the area gently with a soft cloth and avoid applying the drops to broken or inflamed skin.

If you experience any of the more serious symptoms listed above, stop using the drops and contact your GP or call NHS 111 for guidance. Do not attempt to investigate the ear yourself with cotton buds or other objects, as this can push wax further in or damage the ear canal.

Can Numark Olive Oil Ear Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topical olive oil ear drops. Because the oil is applied directly into the ear canal and is not absorbed into the bloodstream in any meaningful quantity, it is very unlikely to interact with medicines you take by mouth or other routes. However, if you are already using prescription ear drops from your GP, always check with your pharmacist before using any additional ear preparations at the same time.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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