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What is earwax — and should you get rid of it? - Henry C. Ou

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TEDEd Animation

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Grooming paraphernalia has been found in numerous archeological sites, many of which have included earwax removal tools. And earwax evacuation remains a popular hygienic habit today. But what is earwax? And are the efforts to eliminate it actually good for us? Henry C. Ou explores the important role earwax plays in our health.

Describe the natural mechanisms that facilitate earwax coming out of your ear canal.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Henry C. Ou
  • Director Max Zaglotskyi, Yuriy Polyashko, Darvideo Animation Studio
  • Narrator Adrian Dannatt
  • Storyboard Artist Tatiana Gordiychuk
  • Art Director Orest Smilyanets
  • Animator Alexey Melnik
  • Composer Jarrett Farkas
  • Sound Designer Weston Fonger
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Produced by Abdallah Ewis, Anna Bechtol
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Editorial Producer Cella Wright

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