Ear candles can cause serious injuries, warns FDA

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers to steer clear of ear candles -- hollow cones that are about 10 inches long and made from a fabric tube soaked in beeswax, paraffin, or a mixture of the two.

The candles are being marketed as treatments for a variety of conditions, including ear wax buildup, sinus infections, hearing loss, headaches, colds, flu, and sore throats. Some firms claim the candles are appropriate for use on children.

But FDA warns that ear candles can cause serious injuries, even when used in accordance with manufacturers' directions.

Read more about FDA's concerns at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm200277.htm