A stye is a common, localized bump on the eyelid that can be painful. It typically forms due to a bacterial infection of an oil gland or a hair follicle near the eyelashes. While it might be tempting to conceal a stye, it is generally not advisable to apply makeup to the affected area.
Why Makeup Should Be Avoided
Applying makeup to a stye can worsen the condition and delay healing. Eye makeup, particularly products like mascara and eyeliner, can harbor bacteria, especially if they have been used for an extended period or improperly stored. When these bacteria come into contact with an already inflamed area, they can exacerbate the infection.
Using makeup can also spread bacteria from the stye to other parts of the eye or contaminate the makeup products themselves, potentially leading to new infections. The act of applying makeup involves touching and sometimes rubbing the sensitive eyelid, which can further irritate the inflamed area and cause discomfort. Additionally, makeup can block the opening of the stye, preventing it from draining naturally and prolonging the healing process.
Proper Care for a Stye
Instead of applying makeup, focus on home care to encourage the stye to heal. The most effective approach involves applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid. To prepare a warm compress, soak a clean washcloth in warm, not hot, water, then wring out the excess liquid. Gently place the damp cloth over your closed eye for about 10 to 15 minutes, repeating this process three to six times a day. The warmth helps to bring the pus to the surface, encouraging the stye to drain naturally and alleviating discomfort.
Maintaining good eyelid hygiene is also beneficial. You can gently clean the area using diluted baby shampoo mixed with warm water applied with a clean cotton swab or washcloth. Specialized eyelid cleansers are also available. It is important to avoid squeezing or trying to pop the stye, as this can spread the infection or lead to complications.
If the stye does not show signs of improvement within a few days to one to two weeks, or if it worsens, affects your vision, or becomes severely painful, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Other signs that warrant a doctor’s visit include spreading redness or swelling, pus or blood leakage, or recurring styes. A medical professional might prescribe antibiotic eye drops or oral medication, or in some cases, drain the stye.
Preventing Future Styes
Good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of future styes. Always remove all eye makeup thoroughly before going to bed, as leftover residue can clog oil glands and contribute to stye formation. Regularly cleaning makeup brushes and applicators prevents bacterial buildup that can transfer to the eyes.
Discard old or expired eye makeup products, especially mascara and liquid eyeliner, every three months, as they accumulate bacteria over time. Avoid sharing eye makeup with others to prevent bacterial transfer. Wash your hands before touching your eyes or applying products to minimize bacteria introduction. If you wear contact lenses, avoid them while a stye is present and switch to a fresh pair after healing to prevent re-infection.