Table of Contents
Ear CleaningIt is a traditional Chinese ear cleaning and care service, which mainly uses professional tools and techniques to clean earwax and soothe ear nerves, and has both health care and relaxation functions. The following is a detailed analysis:
1. What is ear picking?
definition:
- Cai'er, which literally means "collecting ears", is a traditional ear cleaning technique that uses slender tools (such as ear spoons, goose feather sticks, tweezers, etc.) to gently remove earwax (cerumen) and foreign objects in the ear canal.
- It is not limited to cleaning, but also includes ear massage and nerve relaxation steps, which is often called "little comfort".
Historical background:
- It originated in the ancient Chinese palace and later spread to the people, especially in Sichuan, Chongqing and other places. It was combined with teahouse culture and became a leisure and health plan.
2. Ear Picking Process and Tools
Common tools:
- Ear spoon: Made of metal or bamboo, used to scrape earwax.
- Goose feather stick: The rotating stick with soft hair gently sweeps the ear canal to induce a tingling sensation.
- tuning fork: Vibration tool that relaxes the ears through sound vibrations.
- Tweezers, lighting: Assists in precise operation.
- Operation process:
- Check the ear canal: Use an endoscope or light to observe the distribution of earwax.
- Cleaning earwax: Use ear spoon, tweezers and other tools to clean in steps.
- Massage and relaxation: The goose feather stick gently sweeps the ear canal, and the tuning fork vibrates to stimulate the nerve endings.
- Disinfection and finishing: Alcohol cotton cleaning tools to ensure hygiene.
3. The role and controversy of ear picking
Claimed benefits:
- Cleaning the ear canal: Prevent hearing loss or infection caused by cerumen embolism.
- Relax: Relieves pressure by stimulating the ear nerves, similar to a light massage.
- Cultural Experience: The inheritance of traditional skills adds a sense of ritual to life.
Controversy and risks:
- Medical Warnings:
- Earwax can usually be discharged on its own, and frequent ear picking may destroy the self-cleaning function of the ear canal.
- Improper operation may easily lead to eardrum perforation, infection or external auditory canal damage.
- Professional advice:
- If you experience ear stuffiness or hearing loss, you should see a doctor instead of self-examination.
- Choose a regular institution and ensure that the tools are strictly disinfected.
4. The Culture and Modern Development of Ear Picking
Regional characteristics:
- Ear cleaning masters can be seen in teahouses and on the streets of Chengdu and Chongqing, and have become a symbol of urban culture.
- Combined with Sichuan Opera face-changing, tea art, etc., a "slow living" experience is created.
Modern evolution:
- Commercial services: High-end SPAs and health clubs combine ear cleaning with essential oil massage, with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan.
- Internet celebrity economy：The short video platform promotes "immersive ear cleaning" content to attract young people to try it.
5. How to experience ear cleaning safely?
Choose a formal place:
- Confirm that the technician has a health certificate and the tools are disposable or strictly sterilized.
- Avoid roadside vendors or businesses with unclear hygiene conditions.
Taboo group:
- People with ear inflammation, eczema, or eardrum perforation.
- Children (ear canals are fragile and require doctor's intervention).
6. Alternatives
- Medical ear canal irrigation: The hospital's ENT department provides safe cleaning and is suitable for patients with cerumen embolism.
- Daily care: Just wipe the outer ear with a wet towel, and do not use cotton swabs to go deep into the ear canal.
Summarize
Ear cleaning is a traditional skill that combines cleansing, relaxation and cultural experience, but its risks must be handled with caution. It is fine for mild experience, but if you have ear discomfort, please make sure to seek medical attention first. If you want to try it, remember to choose a professional institution so that you can enjoy the process while protecting your hearing health!
