Here’s a hard truth: in the UK, anyone can hang a shingle and offer ear wax removal services—without formal healthcare qualifications. That’s not speculation—it’s backed by the facts.
The Regulation You Won’t Find
According to ENT UK, microsuction should only be done by clinicians who have had adequate training—like ENT surgeons or registered audiologists and nurses—backed by regulatory bodies such as GMC, NMC, HCPC, or accredited registers like AHCS or RCCP. Non-clinicians shouldn’t be performing it.
Yet, several training providers openly state that there are no formal regulatory requirements. Non-medical individuals can complete a short course and start offering ear wax removal.
The Healthcare Professional Institute (HCPI) confirms this gap: there’s currently no legal barrier stopping non-health professionals from offering these services—though they emphasise the need for proper training.
Industry Voices: Audiologists Are Raising Red Flags
A survey by BIHIMA (British & Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association) reveals serious concern among audiologists about unqualified individuals entering the field. The lack of standardised training puts patients at risk of complications—from minor infections to perforated eardrums.
Public Frustration is Real
On Reddit, this concern isn’t theoretical—it’s happening:
“There is definitely a variation in the quality and expertise… anyone can put a poster in a shop and start doing it without any medical background or experience.” – Reddit
Another thread from a doctor wonders about the medicolegal risk of non-ENT staff offering microsuction—which speaks volumes about how casually people are entering the field. – Reddit
The Dangerous Gap
Microsuction safety isn’t about gadgets—it’s about the person wielding them. Without proper training, even a small slip can lead to serious ear damage. ENT UK insists that practitioners must recognise diseases of the external ear and eardrum before offering the service.
With giant gaps in NHS access, many people find themselves paying private providers. Almost 2.3 million people need wax removal annually, and a large portion of them are forced to risk unregulated providers. (The Guardian)
Bottom Line
Yes—it’s legal (though certainly not advisable) for anyone—regardless of medical background—to start performing ear wax removal in the UK, so long as they hold a quick training certificate. That’s a terrifying prospect when the ear is such a delicate organ.
What You Should Do if You Need Wax Removal
Ask about credentials—is the practitioner registered with a professional body? Do they hold a recognised qualification?
Preferably choose a HCPC-registered audiologist.
Avoid fly-by-night operators and ask about supervision routes if complications arise.
Consider microsuction done by fully trained clinicians where safety, not speed, is the priority.
Here at HCD Clinics, our HCPC Registered Audiologists conduct ear wax removal, so you can rest-assured your in safe hands. To book an appointment with an audiologist for your ear wax removal – Book Here >>