A stye is a common, red, and tender bump that forms on the eyelid. It typically arises from a bacterial infection of a small oil gland at the base of an eyelash or within the eyelid itself. This infection often leads to inflammation and the accumulation of pus, similar to a pimple.
How Makeup Leads to Styes
Makeup can contribute to stye formation by obstructing oil glands in the eyelids. Products like eyeliner and mascara, when applied close to the lash line, can block these oil glands. When these glands are blocked, the natural oils they produce cannot drain properly, creating an environment where bacteria can multiply.
Bacteria are often the cause of these infections. Makeup products, brushes, and applicators can become contaminated with bacteria through contact with fingers, environmental exposure, or prolonged use. Applying these contaminated items near the eye can introduce bacteria into blocked oil glands, leading to infection and stye development. Certain makeup ingredients can also irritate sensitive eyelid skin, making it more susceptible to infection.
Preventing Styes Through Makeup Habits
Practicing good hygiene with makeup can significantly reduce the risk of styes. Thoroughly remove all eye makeup before bed each night. This helps prevent the clogging of eyelid glands, ensuring they remain clear and function properly overnight.
Makeup products, especially those with liquid or cream formulations like mascara and liquid eyeliner, have a limited shelf life once opened, typically ranging from three to six months. Beyond this period, bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of infection. Discard old products.
Regularly cleaning makeup brushes and applicators is another important practice; brushes used with liquid or cream products should be cleaned at least weekly, while powder brushes can be cleaned every two weeks to remove bacteria and product buildup. Avoid sharing eye makeup, as this can transfer bacteria and potential infections. If an eye infection or stye is present, stop using eye makeup until the condition has fully resolved to avoid worsening the issue or contaminating products.
What to Do if You Get a Stye
If a stye develops, applying warm, moist compresses can help facilitate drainage and promote healing. This can be done by soaking a clean washcloth in warm water, wringing out the excess, and placing it over the closed eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes, several times a day. This warmth helps to soften the contents of the stye.
Avoid attempting to squeeze or pop a stye, as this can spread the infection, cause further irritation, or lead to more serious complications. If a stye does not improve within a few days, becomes very painful, significantly enlarges, affects vision, or recurs frequently, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can offer guidance or prescribe treatments like antibiotic drops or ointments.