Let’s be honest: earwax is gross. Whether it’s sticky, flaky, yellow, or brown, it’s not something you want to talk about at the dinner table. But believe it or not, that waxy gunk is your ear’s natural self-cleaning system. In fact, it traps dust, keeps bugs out, and prevents infections. Still, not all earwax is created equal. From color changes to sudden buildup, here’s how to tell when your ears are doing their job—and when it might be time to call your doctor.