❓ why
Why do some people have dry earwax and others have sticky earwax?
Quick Answer
Earwax type is strongly influenced by a single gene, ABCC11. One common variant produces dry, flaky earwax, while the other tends to produce sticky earwax.
The Full Story
Earwax is made by glands in the ear canal and helps trap dust and protect the skin. A well-known genetic variant in the ABCC11 gene determines whether a person usually has dry or wet earwax. The dry-earwax variant is especially common in East Asian populations, while sticky earwax is more common in many other parts of the world. The same gene also affects underarm odor because it influences secretions in apocrine glands.
Key Facts
1.ABCC11 is the major gene affecting earwax type
2.Dry earwax is common in East Asian populations
3.The gene also affects body odor
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why earwax can be dry in some people and sticky in others"
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