Hormonal sensitivity helps explain why scalp hair can become thinner while hairs around areas such as the ears, nose, and eyebrows may become more noticeable. The follicles themselves respond differently to androgens. Genetics also matters, which is why prominent ear hair may be much more common in some families than others.

Aging can also change the appearance of both hair and the surrounding skin. Individual hairs may become coarser or more visible, while age-related changes in the skin can make previously inconspicuous hairs easier to notice. Ear hair itself is generally a normal part of aging and, in most cases, isn’t an indication that something is wrong with your health.

There have been older studies examining possible associations between ear-canal hair and cardiovascular disease, but ear hair is not used as a diagnostic sign of heart disease. A sudden or unusual change in body-hair growth—particularly when accompanied by other unexplained symptoms—is different and can be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

If the hair bothers you, grooming is optional. An electric ear-hair trimmer designed for the purpose is generally a practical choice, and carefully trimming visible outer-ear hairs is preferable to inserting sharp objects deep into the ear canal. Plucking can irritate follicles, while chemical hair removers shouldn’t be placed inside the ear. Ultimately, increasingly noticeable ear hair is usually just another ordinary change that can accompany aging—not evidence of poor hygiene or declining health.