Hearing Aids & Itchy Ears

Causes of Itching

Why do my hearing aids make my ears itch? It’s one of the most common complaints new users report – but thankfully, it’s often easy to fix. Many people experience itchy ears with hearing aids during their first few weeks, especially if there’s an issue with dome fit, materials, or cleaning routines. If you’ve been wondering how to stop ears from itching when wearing hearing aids, it helps to start with the root cause.

Common causes include:

  • Allergies to dome or mold materials
  • Poor dome fit causing friction
  • Moisture in hearing aids from sweat, wax, or humidity
  • Ear canal itching caused by trapped bacteria
  • Lack of regular maintenance or ear hygiene

Addressing these issues early can make a big difference in your long-term comfort and success with hearing aids.

Causes of Itching

How to Prevent Itching

If you’ve dealt with hearing aids and itchy ears, prevention is key. A few small changes can go a long way toward avoiding irritation and improving your experience. These strategies can also help extend the life of your device.

Smart habits for preventing itchy ears include:

  • Ask about hypoallergenic materials to reduce hearing aid dome irritation
  • Ensure proper dome fit with a professional adjustment
  • Use a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier to reduce moisture in hearing aids
  • Prioritize cleaning hearing aids regularly – and keep your ears dry too
  • Use audiologist-approved gels to boost comfort and reduce friction

If you’re wondering, how do I stop my ears from itching when wearing hearing aids? These tips are a great place to begin.

Everyday Tips for Comfort

Caring for your device matters. Store your hearing aids in a clean, ventilated container to avoid damp buildup. Skip cotton swabs – they can cause trauma and push wax deeper. If you live in a humid climate, consider vented domes to support airflow and reduce itchy ears from hearing aids.

Focus on everyday comfort: gentle ear hygiene, breathable storage, and regular care can help you avoid itchy ears with hearing aids and enjoy your device with less irritation.

Need Support with Your Hearing Aids?

Sometimes, discomfort signals something more. If you’re dealing with hearing aids and itchy ears, ongoing ear canal itching, or persistent irritation, it may be time to speak with a professional. Redness, swelling, discharge, or discomfort could point to allergies, infection, or an improper dome fit.

How to Prevent Itching
Everyday Tips for Comfort
Need Support with Your Hearing Aids?

At Hearwell Services, our expert audiologists can assess the issue, recommend alternative domes or open-fit styles, and help you find long-term comfort. Book your hearing assessment today or learn more about the importance of regular check-ups to keep your hearing health on track.

FAQ

Is it normal for new hearing aid users to experience itching?

Yes. Minor irritation is common at first and usually resolves with time and proper maintenance.

Absolutely. Wax traps moisture in hearing aids, which can lead to ear canal itching.

Wipe down devices daily using a soft cloth or hearing aid cleaning tool. Avoid exposing them to water.

Yes. An ill-fitting dome can cause friction, blockage, or pressure in the canal.

Yes. Vented or hypoallergenic domes are often more breathable and better for preventing itchy ears.

References

Chasin, M. (2013). When hearing aids cause itchy ears. AudiologyOnline. https://www.audiologyonline.com/ask-the-experts/when-hearing-aids-cause-itchy-12800

Ceretone. (n.d.). Why do my ears itch when I wear hearing aids? https://ceretone.com/blogs/cblog/why-when-i-wear-my-hearing-aid-my-ears-itch

Value Hearing. (2023). Why do my hearing aids make my ears itch? https://www.valuehearing.com.au/news/why-do-my-hearing-aids-make-my-ears-itch

Auzen. (n.d.). Managing itchy ears in hearing aid users. https://uk.auzen.com/blogs/articles/managing-itchy-ears-in-hearing-aid-users-causes-and-effective-treatment

Dr. Jessica M. Frankel

Co-Founder | Doctor of Audiology

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Jessica M. Frankel is the co-founder of HearWell Services. A fellow of both the American Academy of Audiology and the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, she specializes in hearing care, rehabilitation, and innovative devices, with a passion for helping people hear clearly and confidently.
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