Keep your ears clean this summer!
1. Wear Ear Plugs – Every Time
The single most effective prevention for surfer’s ear is good-quality ear plugs made for water sports.
Look for:
• Surfer/dive-specific plugs
• Plugs that allow hearing and pressure equalisation
• A snug, comfortable fit
Even occasional use dramatically reduces risk over time.
2. Use Alcohol Ear Spray After Water Exposure
A daily summer habit that works wonders.
A simple isopropyl alcohol + white vinegar mixture helps:
• Dry the ear canal
• Prevent bacterial and fungal infections
• Reduce the chance of “swimmer’s ear” in narrow, exostosis-affected canals
Pre-made versions are available at most pharmacies, or we can advise you on what to use.
Important: Do not use alcohol drops if you have a perforated eardrum, grommets, chronic discharge, or pain.
3. Keep Your Ears Dry if You’re Prone to Infections
If you’ve had repeated ear infections or know you have exostoses, it’s essential to keep the ears dry.
A well-fitted swim cap, hood, or plugs can make a big difference.
4. Know When It’s Time for a Check-Up
We recommend an ear assessment if you experience:
• Recurrent ear infections
• Persistent muffled hearing after swimming
• Water that won’t drain from the ear
• Pain, discharge, or itching
• Difficulty with equalisation when diving
At Tūhauora Clinic, we can assess the severity of your exostoses, arrange a hearing test, and provide advice tailored to your water activity level.
What If Surgery Is Needed?
In advanced cases, exostoses may need to be surgically removed.
Surgery is highly effective and restores a normal-sized ear canal—but prevention is always better.
If you’re unsure about your own ears, or you’re finding infections are becoming more frequent, early review is the best step.
Stay Safe, Stay in the Water
We’re proud to support Northland’s ocean community—surfers, divers, paddlers, swimmers, and beach families. Small changes like ear plugs and alcohol ear spray can keep you out of the clinic and in the surf this season.
If you’d like a review or need advice on protecting your ears, our team at Tūhauora Clinic is here to help.