The skin inside and around my ears keeps itching and flaking, especially in winter. Why?

Inflammatory Conditions of the Ear

Ear canal dermatitis occurs when the lining of the ear becomes inflamed due to irritants, allergens, or moisture imbalance. Symptoms typically include redness, itching, and scaling. Because the ear canal is narrow and poorly ventilated, irritation can linger if triggers are not addressed.

Chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis also frequently involve the ears. Eczema tends to cause intense itching and dryness, while psoriasis leads to thicker, silvery scaling. These conditions often require targeted treatment rather than general moisturizers alone.

Seborrheic dermatitis—a condition linked to yeast overgrowth—commonly affects the scalp and can extend into the ears, producing greasy flakes and redness.

Everyday Triggers People Overlook

Contact allergies are a major contributor. Nickel earrings, fragranced hair products, headphone materials, and even hearing aids can provoke localized reactions. Identifying and removing the trigger is often more effective than repeated treatment.

Overcleaning is another common cause. Cotton swabs strip protective oils and push debris deeper into the ear canal, increasing dryness and irritation. The ear is designed to self-clean; visible wax should be wiped gently from the outer ear only. Continue reading…