Professional Ear Candling Session Protocol

🧑⚕️ 1. Pre-Session Client Intake (REQUIRED)

Before performing a session, review health history and ask:

DO NOT perform ear candling if the client has:

  • Ear tubes (current or recent)
  • Perforated eardrum (known or suspected)
  • Ear infection, pain, or active inflammation
  • Recent ear surgery
  • Hearing aids that cannot be removed
  • Open wounds, sores, or skin irritation near the ear
  • Severe dizziness or vertigo disorders

Ask about:

  • Sinus congestion
  • Allergies
  • Headaches or pressure
  • Previous experience with ear candling
  • Sensitivity to smoke or scents

➡️ Explain that ear candling is a relaxation and wellness service, not a medical treatment or substitute for medical care.

🛏 2. Room & Client Setup

Creating a calm, professional environment improves the experience.

Room Setup

  • Quiet space with minimal airflow
  • Soft lighting
  • Fireproof bowl or glass of water nearby
  • Small towel for shoulder and hair protection
  • Scissors for trimming candle
  • Lighter or match

Client Position

  • Client lies on their side
  • Head supported with pillow
  • Towel draped over shoulder and around ear
  • Hair tucked away from ear

🕯 3. Candle Preparation

  • Use high-quality, slow-burning ear candles (like Cylinder Works professional candles)
  • Never leave candle unattended

🔥 4. Candle Placement

  1. Gently pull the ear upward and slightly back (adults) to help straighten the canal opening.
  2. Insert the small end of the candle into the ear opening just enough to create a light seal — do not force.
  3. Hold the candle upright and vertical at all times.

⏱ 5. During the Session

  • Light the top end of the candle.
  • The practitioner must stay with the client the entire time.\
  • Burn time is typically 8–12 minutes per candle.

 

Check the client every few minutes:

  • Comfort level
  • Any dizziness
  • Any discomfort or heat

Trim ash as it forms to prevent falling embers.

If the client feels:

  • Heat in ear
  • Pain
  • Dizziness

➡️ Extinguish immediately.

💧 6. Removing the Candle

  • Remove before the flame reaches the marked safety line (or about 3–4 inches remaining).
  • Extinguish in water or fireproof bowl.
  • Never allow candle to burn to the end.

👂 7. Repeat on Second Ear

  • Help client roll to other side
  • Repeat same steps

💆 8. Post-Session Care

After both ears:

  • Allow client to sit up slowly
  • Offer water
  • Gentle ear or neck massage can enhance relaxation
  • Ask how they feel

Common client feedback may include:

  • Feeling relaxed
  • Sensation of lightness
  • Temporary warmth in ear area

🗓 9. Frequency Guidelines

General wellness use:

  • Every 4–6 weeks
  • During seasonal changes
  • As part of relaxation or holistic care sessions

⚠️ Practitioner Safety Guidelines

  • Never perform alone — remain present
  • Keep water nearby
  • Use only high-quality candles
  • Never perform on children without parental consent and proper training
  • Stay within scope of practice — do not diagnose or treat medical conditions