Plastic Surgeon Dr. Frederick Weniger Separates TikTok Anti-Aging Truth from Hype

Plastic Surgeon Dr. Frederick Weniger Separates TikTok Anti-Aging Truth from Hype

www.wenigerplasticsurgery.com

From “prejuvenation” serums to anti-sunscreen influencers, Dr. Weniger breaks down what’s worth trying—and what’s potentially harmful.

TikTok may be today’s beauty classroom, but not every viral lesson deserves an A-plus. Board-certified plastic Hilton Head, South Carolina Plastic surgeon Dr. Frederick Weniger says he’s seeing more patients influenced by social media than ever before. “TikTok can inspire curiosity about skincare, but it also spreads half-truths,” he explains. “My goal is to help people tell the difference between science and spectacle.”

Below, Dr. Weniger weighs in on the newest anti-aging trends flooding social media:

1. The “#MorningShed” Layering Ritual

What it is: An elaborate pre-bedtime routine combining masks, chin straps, mouth tape, and multiple serums—all filmed for TikTok as a nightly performance.

Verdict:  Not necessary.

Dr. Weniger says: “This is more about aesthetics for the camera than for the skin. Over-layering can clog pores, irritate the barrier, and make products less effective. You don’t need ten steps—just the right few.”

What to do instead: A simple cleanser, one proven active (retinol or peptide), moisturizer, and SPF in the morning are still the most reliable foundation for healthy skin.

2. The Anti-Sunscreen Movement

What it is: Creators claiming that daily sunscreen use blocks vitamin D or is “unnatural,” encouraging minimal SPF or “sun exposure therapy.”

Verdict:  Dangerous and misleading.

Dr. Weniger says: “This is one of the most concerning beauty myths we’ve seen. UV damage is responsible for up to 80 percent of visible aging—and skin cancer. Skipping SPF accelerates wrinkles, pigmentation, and collagen loss.”

What to do instead: Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, reapply outdoors, and look for lightweight mineral or hybrid formulas if you dislike traditional sunscreens.

3. Hypochlorous Acid for ‘Inflamm-Aging’

What it is: HOCl sprays marketed as miracle anti-aging mists that calm inflammation and “reset” the skin.

Verdict:  Promising but not magic.

Dr. Weniger says: “Hypochlorous acid can soothe redness and support barrier recovery, especially after treatments like microneedling. But it’s not a wrinkle-eraser on its own. Think of it as supportive care, not a cure.”

What to do instead: Combine soothing ingredients with proven actives: retinoids, antioxidants, and professional treatments—to address structural aging at multiple levels.

4. ‘Prejuvenation’ and Cell-Derived Serums

What it is: TikTok’s newest buzzword—“prejuvenation, ”urges users to start anti-aging early with exosome, stem-cell, or growth-factor serums.

Verdict:  Conditionally positive.

Dr. Weniger says: “The idea of preventing aging before it shows is sound, but the science behind many of these products is still evolving. Almost none of the agents in these products are solidly proven.  Some do show promise; others are overpriced moisturizers in disguise. Always look for data and medical oversight.”

What to do instead: Integrate prevention with evidence-based skincare and, when ready, professional treatments that actually build collagen.

5. Skin Cycling (Still Going Strong)

What it is: Alternating “active” nights (retinol, exfoliation) with “recovery” nights for hydration and barrier repair.

Verdict:  Smart and effective—when personalized.

Dr. Weniger says: “This trend stuck around because it makes sense. It allows the skin to repair itself and prevents over-exfoliation. This can be good for thin skin and more aged skin.  People with thick, oily skin would probably be better with a more aggressive routine  Just remember that one routine doesn’t fit all, sensitive skin may need longer rest phases.  An experienced aesthetician is invaluable for personalized management of your skin.”

Dr. Weniger’s Final Take:

“Social media trends can make skincare seem complicated, but the fundamentals haven’t changed: protect your skin from the sun, support it with proven actives, and rely on professionals for advanced care. Everything else should pass the ‘science or show?’ test before you try it.”

Choosing the Perfect Paint Finish: A Guide to Enhance Your Home

Choosing the perfect paint finish can transform your living space, creating the ideal aesthetic and mood. This guide aims to help you navigate through the myriad of paint finishes available, from matte to glossy, so you can make an informed choice that best suits your style and the function of each room. 

Whether renovating your entire house or updating a single room, understanding the different paint finishes and their unique characteristics is the first step towards creating a home that reflects your personality and taste. 

Matte Finish

Matte finish is the most common choice for interior walls. It has a non-reflective surface that helps hide any imperfections on the wall and gives a smooth, elegant look. This makes it perfect for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. 

The absence of shine also creates a cozy atmosphere in these spaces, making them warm and inviting. However, there may be better options for high-traffic areas as they can be difficult to clean and maintain.

Eggshell Finish

The eggshell finish is slightly more reflective than matte but has a low sheen. This makes it a great compromise between matte and satin finishes. It's durable and easy to clean, making it suitable for hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. 

The slight shine also adds depth to the color, giving a sophisticated look to your walls. A painting company in your area can help you achieve this. 

Satin Finish

The satin finish has a soft, velvety sheen that adds a touch of luxury to any room. It's more durable than matte or eggshell finishes and is easy to clean, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. The subtle sheen also reflects light, making the room appear brighter.

Semi-Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss is a highly reflective finish that adds a modern touch to any room. It has a shiny surface that can make colors appear more vibrant and glossy. This makes it perfect for highlighting architectural details or creating an accent wall. However, it's not recommended for large areas as it can be overwhelming and show imperfections more easily.

Gloss Finish

Gloss finish is the shiniest and most reflective of all paint finishes. It creates a sleek, modern look that can make any room feel bigger and brighter. This makes it great for small spaces or rooms with low natural light. However, it's not recommended for walls as it can be too overwhelming and show every little imperfection.

Choosing the Right Finish

When choosing a paint finish, consider both the aesthetic and practical aspects. The function of the room should also play a role in your decision-making process. For example, high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens may benefit from a more durable finish like eggshell or satin. At the same time, bedrooms and living rooms may be better suited for a softer matte finish. 

It's also important to consider the lighting in each room. Natural light can make glossy finishes appear even shinier, so if you have a lot of natural light in your home, opting for a less reflective finish may be best.

How to Prepare Your Room for Painting

Preparation, Tools, and Cleaning

Proper preparation is crucial to achieving a professional-looking paint job. First, clear the room or cover your furniture and floors with drop cloths to protect them from paint splatters. Remove all fixtures, outlet covers, and switch plates. 

Then, clean the walls using a mild detergent solution and let them dry completely. Any holes or cracks should be filled with a suitable filler, sanded smooth, and cleaned of dust.

The right tools make a significant difference in the quality of your paint job. For most interior painting projects, you'll need a paint roller for the large, flat areas and a set of brushes for detail work and cutting around the edges. 

A paint tray is essential for holding your paint, and a roller extension pole will make reaching tall walls or ceilings much easier.

After painting, cleaning up properly will ensure your tools are ready for future projects. Brushes and rollers should be cleaned immediately after use. If you use water-based paint, warm water, and a little soap will suffice. 

You'll need to use a paint thinner for cleaning for oil-based paints. Always rinse your tools thoroughly and let them dry before storing them. Dispose of any leftover paint according to your local regulations.

Remember, taking the time to prepare properly and using the right tools will make your painting project more efficient and provide you with a finish you can be proud of.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect paint finish for your home is all about finding a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Consider the function of each room, lighting, and your style when making your decision.

And remember to prepare properly and use the right tools for a professional-looking finish. With this guide, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and inviting living space that reflects your unique personality.

a collab with Groovy Hues

The Perfect Blend: Combining Privacy and Transparency with Glass Walls

Have you ever been in a room with glass walls while still feeling comfortable and secure? It can be difficult to find the perfect balance between transparency and privacy, especially when designing a workspace. Glass walls are becoming increasingly popular for offices, considering their benefit of natural lighting as well as their modern look.

In addition to these practical advantages, businesses have started using glass walls for another purpose: achieving both security and openness in one space. Combining privacy and transparency is possible with the right design choices — let's explore how you can have your version of this 'perfect blend.'

Getting the Best of Both Worlds with Glass Walls

To achieve both privacy and transparency through glass walls, one option is the use of smart glasses. Smart glass technology allows the transparency of the glass to be controlled by a switch, depending on the need of the moment. It can transform from being transparent to opaque, thus offering privacy when required while maintaining a sense of openness.

Privacy in the Workplace

While open-concept offices have become more popular, there is still a need for private spaces. Meetings, discussions, and phone calls are some examples of situations that require privacy. With smart glass technology, these spaces can be created within an open workspace without compromising on natural lighting or aesthetics.

Moreover, adjustable transparency offers employees the freedom to choose between privacy or openness while working. This autonomy can increase productivity and motivation, as employees can create a workspace that best suits their needs.

Transparency for Trust

Transparency is crucial for building trust in the workplace. It promotes open communication and collaboration among team members. With glass walls, there is a sense of transparency between different departments or teams, promoting visibility and accountability.

Furthermore, transparent workspaces offer a sense of equality, as everyone is able to see each other's work and progress. This can foster a positive working environment and encourage teamwork.

Enhancing Natural Lighting

Glass walls in office spaces allow natural light to permeate the room, reducing the need for constant artificial lighting. This creates a more comfortable working environment and contributes to energy efficiency. Natural light has been associated with improved mood, reducing the risk of eye strain, and promoting overall well-being among employees.

Building an Aesthetic Environment

Transparent glass walls contribute to creating a visually appealing and contemporary workspace. They add a sense of sophistication and modernity to the office design, making it aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, the ability to see through walls can make spaces seem larger and more open, eliminating the feeling of being boxed in.

Versatility and Customization

Glass walls enable a high degree of customization. The addition of decals, logos, or frosting can add a unique touch to the office space, reflecting the company's brand and culture. Thus, glass walls not only serve the functional needs of privacy and transparency but also offer creative possibilities to make workspaces more personalized and engaging.

How to Implement Glass Walls into Your Interior

Integrating glass walls into your interiors demands thoughtful planning and design to maximize their benefits of privacy, transparency, natural lighting, aesthetics, and customization. Here are some suggestions on how to effectively implement them in your workspace.

Consider the Layout

Start by assessing the layout of your office space. Identify areas that would benefit from increased natural light or visibility. Similarly, note down spaces where privacy might be essential. This will help you determine where to position the glass walls most effectively.

Choose the Right Type of Glass

Not all glass is created equal. For areas requiring more privacy, consider using frosted or tinted glass. For meeting rooms or collaborative spaces where transparency is valued, opt for clear glass. Using the right type of glass according to the needs of the space can enhance functionality while preserving aesthetics.

Use Smart Glass Technology

Smart glass is a great option for spaces that require both privacy and transparency at different times. It allows you to switch between transparent and opaque with the touch of a button, providing flexibility and convenience.

Incorporate Branding

Customize your glass walls with your company's branding. This can be done through decals, logos, or frosting. It adds a personal touch to your workspace and can reinforce the identity and culture of your company.

Work with Professionals

Consider hiring professionals for the installation of your glass walls. They have the experience and knowledge to ensure that the walls are installed correctly and safely, ensuring maximum benefits from your investment. A reliable glass installation company can also offer advice on the best type of glass and design for your specific needs.

In Conclusion

Glass walls offer a perfect blend of privacy and transparency, making them an ideal choice for modern workspaces. They not only enhance natural lighting and aesthetics but also promote trust, collaboration, and versatility in the workplace. With the right planning and design choices, you can incorporate glass walls into your interiors to create a functional, visually appealing, and personalized workspace for employees.

a collab with Gatsby Glass

Extend the Lifespan of Your Window Blinds with Proper Upkeep

As the days get shorter and temperatures get cooler, many of us look forward to the coziness and warmth created within our own homes. Window treatments like blinds play an important role in regulating sunlight, providing privacy, and affecting a room's overall aesthetic and mood. However, over time, blinds can become worn down and lose their functionality if not properly cared for.

With just a bit of regular maintenance, window blinds can last for years—continuing to serve both practical purposes and bringing style to your living space. In this post, we'll share some simple tips for extending the lifespan of your blinds so they can accompany you through many more seasons to come.

Window Blinds Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

Maintaining your window blinds is as easy as incorporating a few steps into your regular cleaning routine. By setting aside just a little bit of time each week, you can keep your blinds in top-notch condition and prevent any unnecessary wear and tear. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you do just that:

Step 1: Regular Dusting

Dust is the biggest enemy of window blinds. Over time, dust can accumulate and make the blinds look dingy and can even damage the finish. A simple dusting once a week can prevent this. Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dust. Start at the top and work your way down, dusting both sides of the blinds.

Step 2: Spot Cleaning

Occasionally, blinds will have stubborn stains or grime that dusting can't remove. For these, you'll need to do some spot cleaning. Prepare a mild soapy solution, dampen a cloth with it, and gently clean the affected area. Always dry the blinds afterward to prevent water spots and damage.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning

Once or twice a year, your blinds could benefit from a deep cleaning. This can involve removing them and soaking them in a bathtub with some mild detergent, then gently scrubbing them with a soft brush. Remember to rinse thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before rehanging them.

Step 4: Regular Check-ups

Regularly check the cords and mechanisms of your blinds. These parts can often wear out before the blind slats themselves, so keeping an eye on them can help you spot issues before they become major problems. If you notice any issues, get them repaired promptly to prevent further damage.

Step 5: Avoid Overexposure to Sunlight

While blinds are meant to manage the flow of sunlight into your room, prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight can cause discoloration, warping, or even cracking in some materials. Use sunshades during peak sunlight hours, or rotate the blinds you use to prevent the same set from getting overexposed.

Step 6: Proper Handling

Many issues with blinds arise from improper handling. Always use the cords when opening and closing blinds rather than pulling on the slats themselves. Twisting the rod to open and close the blind slats instead of pulling them apart will prevent damage.

Step 7: Ventilation

Humidity can be detrimental to certain types of blinds, especially wooden ones. Always ventilate your rooms well, particularly after cooking or showering, to prevent moisture from settling on your blinds.

Tip: Use Professional Services

If your blinds are severely damaged or very high-end, it might be best to rely on professional cleaning services. They have the right tools and expertise to handle delicate materials and complex mechanisms, ensuring your blinds are well-maintained without further damage. Contact a window treatment company today to learn more about maintaining your blinds and to schedule a professional cleaning service if needed.

FAQ

How do I know if my window blinds are due for a replacement?

If your blinds are showing signs of significant wear and tear, such as broken or missing slats, damaged cords or mechanisms, or discoloration and warping, it may be time for a replacement. You can also consider replacing them if you simply want to update the look of your room.

Can I clean my blinds while they are still hung on the window?

It is possible to clean your blinds while they are still hung, but it may not be as effective as removing them and cleaning them thoroughly. Additionally, some blinds may be too delicate or complex to clean while hanging effectively.

How often should I deep clean my window blinds?

It is recommended to clean your window blinds deep at least once a year, though you can do it more frequently if your blinds are exposed to significant dust, dirt, or grime.

Conclusion

Window blinds can add functionality and style to any room. With proper upkeep and maintenance, they can last for years while continuing to serve their purpose. By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your window blinds and enjoy them for many seasons to come. Remember also to contact professionals for assistance if needed, and never hesitate to replace your blinds if they are significantly damaged.

a collab with Bumble Bee Blinds

Insulating Windows and Doors: Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Drafts

Insulating windows and doors is a crucial aspect of home maintenance that often goes overlooked. However, it plays a significant role in maintaining indoor temperature, enhancing energy efficiency, and reducing troublesome drafts. 

A well-insulated home can provide a comfortable living environment year-round and lead to substantial energy bill savings. This guide will explore various methods of insulating windows and doors and their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision for your home. 

Why Insulation is Important

Insulation acts as a barrier between the inside and outside of your home, preventing heat flow from escaping or entering. In simpler terms, it keeps unwanted cold air out during winter and retains cool air during summer. This process helps maintain an ideal indoor temperature without overworking your heating or cooling systems.

Additionally, proper insulation also reduces drafts, which are caused by air leaks around windows and doors. Drafts can create an uncomfortable living space and significantly increase energy bills as your heating or cooling systems work harder to compensate for the lost heat or cool air.

Therefore, insulating your windows and doors is crucial in enhancing comfort, reducing energy consumption, and lowering utility costs.

Methods of Insulation

There are various methods of insulating windows and doors, each with advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at some of the most common ones:

Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping involves sealing gaps between window or door frames to prevent air leaks. It’s an affordable and easy-to-install option for temporary insulation. However, it may not be as effective in extreme weather conditions and must be replaced frequently.

Caulking

Caulking is another method of sealing gaps around windows and doors using a waterproof sealant. It provides a more permanent solution than weatherstripping but can also be time-consuming and require reapplication if it cracks or shrinks over time.

Insulated Curtains or Shades

Insulated curtains or shades are an effective option for insulating windows. They act as a barrier between the window and indoor space, preventing heat loss or gain. However, they may not be as aesthetically pleasing and can be costly to install.

Foam Tape

Foam tape is an inexpensive option that involves placing adhesive foam strips around the edges of windows or doors. It provides a temporary solution to insulate against drafts but may not be as effective in extreme weather conditions and can leave a residue when removed.

Window Insulation Film

Window insulation film is a clear plastic sheet applied to the windows' inside using double-sided tape. It creates an air pocket between the window and the film, acting as a barrier against heat transfer. 

While it's relatively inexpensive and easy to install, it may not be as durable and can reduce visibility through the window. Learn more about this by talking to an insulation contractor in your city.

Insulated Window or Door Inserts

Insulated window or door inserts are custom-made panels that fit inside the existing frames. They provide a more permanent and efficient solution but can be costly and require professional installation.

Additional Tips to Insulate Doors and Windows

Using Draft Stoppers

Draft stoppers, or door snakes, are simple yet effective tools to prevent drafts from entering through the gaps under doors. They are typically filled with insulating materials and can be easily placed or removed. You can make your draft stopper using old socks or towels for a cost-effective solution.

Regular Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance and inspection can go a long way in maintaining the efficiency of your window and door insulation. Check for any visible cracks, gaps, or damages and repair them promptly. If weatherstripping or caulking is worn out or damaged, replace it immediately.

Use of Thermal or Blackout Curtains

Traditional curtains or blinds can be replaced with thermal or blackout curtains. These curtains have a special lining that insulates against heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. They also have the added benefit of blocking out light, making them ideal for bedrooms or rooms with TVs or computer screens.

Double Glazing 

Consider double glazing if your budget allows. This involves having two panes of glass with an insulating gap in between. This gap can be filled with an inert gas, which is a poor conductor of heat, enhancing the insulation properties of the windows.

Use of Window Quilts

Window quilts are thick, insulating blankets that can be hung over windows during cold weather. They provide an additional layer of insulation, helping to prevent heat loss. While not the most aesthetically pleasing option, they can be very effective, particularly for older, drafty windows. 

Conclusion

Insulating windows and doors is important to maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. With various methods available, it's essential to consider factors such as cost, effectiveness, and durability when choosing the right insulation for your home. 

Regular maintenance and additional tools like draft stoppers can help keep your home well-insulated. By taking these steps, you can reduce drafts and energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills and a more comfortable living space.

A collab with ifoam.com

Hacks to Unblock Clogged Ear Wax at Home | Dr Recommended

*Disclaimer: Content on this site is provided for informational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider before attempting any treatments.

If you've had a blocked ear, you know how annoying it can be. It can vary from a slight annoyance to downright debilitating!

After I had a visit with an Ear Doctor some time ago for an issue unrelated to ear wax, I was advised to stop using ear swabs like Q tips because I had wax build up in my ear. Ever since then, I have had several incidents of my ears getting blocked with wax. I think another part of the problem is because I wash my hair less than I used to, so my ears don't get flushed out as often in the shower. 

Despite having these incidents, I still haven't returned to using ear swabs since that Doctors visit, so I have had to find other ways to get the wax out of my ears. In this post, I'll share what has worked for me and what has not, plus some other tips that you may find helpful if you or a loved one experience an ear blocked from wax. 

Note: What works for me, may not work for you. And, some things that do not work for me, may work for you. 

Murine Ear Drops:

I could feel my ear was getting some wax buildup, so I purchased these Murine Ear Drops as a wax removal system with the ear washer included, thinking this would be a great and easy way to get the wax out. After all, I read some great reviews on it. After just one use, the drops seemed to soften the wax in my ear so much that it felt like it melted further into my ear canal and completely blocked my ear and caused pain in my ear, which I had never had before. It felt like my ear was crazy glued shut and it stayed that way for days, until I tried the next product which is what unblocked my ear.  

It wasn't until after my experience with this products that I looked at the product's 1 star reviews and saw that this happened to a lot of other people. Even if I saw those reviews, I would have probably thought that it wouldn't happen to me as there were a lot more positive reviews on it.

⚠ Although, this one says that it's Doctor recommended, I say use with caution.

Cerumol Ear Drops:

I called the Doctor's office because my ear was now completely blocked after using the previous drops. They wouldn't see me for an ear flush because they were not seeing patients due to covid-19, so they recommended Cerumol Ear Drops to clear my ear. 

I used the Cerumol ear drops as recommended for 4 days in a row. I used them before bed so they would stay in longer for maximum efficacy. I could tell right away that these drops worked differently from the first ones that I used, they didn't fizz in my ear and the scent was very medicinal. My ear pain started to diminish after using the Cerumol drops. Although my ear didn't feel like it was unblocked, I was followed the Doctor's advice to discontinue use after 4 days and my ear did indeed get cleared of the wax.

✅ Dr. Recommended and worked for me.

From Step 3 listed below: 

Area to massage/ press gently to get wax out

Here are the steps that worked for me to get the wax out (Note: all of the information in this post is regarding a blocked ear due to wax build up. Do not attempt if the blockage is from something other than wax).

Steps to Remove Ear Wax:

1. Use drops of choice in ear. Doctor recommended to me- Olive Oil or Cerumol drops above
2. After leaving the drops in for minimum 1 hour to overnight, have a warm shower and let the water flow in and around the ear. Do not aim the water directly into the ear canal, just let the water flow around the ear area to clear out any loosened wax
3. This step is crucial to getting the wax out. I learned this step after a lot of trial and error. After the warm shower, gently press/ massage the area in front of the ear as shown in the photo above. This will gently push the wax out of the ear. Be gentle, if no wax comes out, it is not ready and try again the next day.
4. Use a tissue and gently wipe the inside of your ear. Do not push or stick your fingers or any other utensils or objects into the ear opening, you risk pushing the wax further into the ear or damaging the ear
5. Repeat these steps until the ear becomes clear of wax

Note: If you experience any pain or ear remains blocked, consult with your Doctor.

Home Remedies:

✅ Olive Oil is another method that both the Ear Doctor and Family Doctor recommended that I use to loosen ear wax. This is a great thing to do for maintenance to keep your ears from getting blocked, and can be used in place of the Ear Drops if you prefer or can't get the drops. Most people have some olive oil at home, so it's a good DIY.  Just place a few drops of olive oil in each ear and wipe away the excess. The olive oil will soften the wax for easy removal. 

For ear wax blockage, use olive oil following the same steps as outlined above. Any good brand of Extra Virgin Olive Oil should do.

Hydrogen Peroxide is what I've used for most of my life to clear the wax when I feel a build up. It seems to dissolve the wax and you can hear it fizzing away, similar to how the Murine Ear Drops seem to work. Some people swear by this method and I used to as well, however....

⚠ ...Doctors DO NOT recommend this method, so I have switched to both the olive oil and Cerumol Ear Drops for at home use. Olive oil for maintenance and Cerumol Drops for larger build ups of wax.

Here are a few other tips to try and clear the wax:

• Wash ears thoroughly and regularly in the shower, letting the water flush the ear (just don't aim the water directly into the ear canal)
• Pinch your nose while keeping your mouth shut and blow out gently. If you hear both ear pop, that's a good thing
• Try pinching your nose while under water. I always find that a ton of wax comes out of my ears when I do this, whether in the ocean or the bathtub. This is better for maintenance and I would avoid if your ear is blocked.
• Chewing gum or moving your jaw around can help open the ear canal and loosen wax
• I've heard that some people use baby oil and/ or baking soda. I have not tried either and they were not recommended to me by any Doctors

In Summary, the Olive Oil and Cerumol drops were both recommended to me by Doctors. I find olive oil is good for regular maintenance and the Cerumol Drops are good when I have a build up of wax. Rinsing the ears with warm water in the shower and the massage/ press method as described in the "Steps to Remove Ear Wax" in this post have helped me the most when I have a blockage from ear wax.

Information in this post is based on having an excess of ear wax. If your ear is blocked for any other reason, do not attempt these hacks and contact your Doctor. If you have pain or loss of hearing, see your Doctor right away. Again, do not stick anything into your ear canal and see your Doctor for advice. These tips are provided for informational purposes only. 

*See Disclaimer at the top of this page.

I hope these hacks help. I know how frustrating it can be. 

Let me know what worked for you. If you have any othet tips to share, please leave them in the comments.