How to Prevent Styes

A stye is a swollen, tender pimple or bump on the edge of the eyelid. It develops when a gland or eyelash follicle becomes clogged with dirt or oil and usually lasts a week. Styes can be painful and uncomfortable, and they can cause the eyes to tear excessively. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent or get rid of styes at home.

Avoid Stress

A stye is an infection in the tear gland or eyelash follicle. Stress does not cause styes but can create an atmosphere where they develop. Stress causes the body to excrete hormones and chemicals that encourage the development of styes. 

It means that constant stress can cause styes to develop or keep coming back. Practicing relaxation exercises can help reduce stress and the reactions it produces. Meditation, breathing exercises, and other habits can help.

Good Daily Hygiene 

Styes develop when the pores lining the eyelid become clogged and infected. Maintaining proper eye hygiene can help prevent styes. Cleaning the eyelids and face daily helps remove excess oil and debris. 

It is vital to remove makeup before bed as chemicals in cosmetics can clog the pores. Use an applicator or cotton swab to clean the eyelid area between the lashes and the inner eyelid. Avoid contact with the eye. 

A Warm Compress 

Applying a warm compress over the eyelids before bedtime can help prevent styes. Place a washcloth soaked in warm water over the eyes for several minutes after removing your makeup. The compress can help remove oil or sebum that can block eyelid pores, causing a stye. 

A warm compress can also help treat an existing stye. There are store-bought compresses made for use over the eyes. Be careful when using the products to avoid eye injury. 

Using Eyelid Washes

If you are prone to eyelid inflammatory conditions, a weekly or daily routine of eyelid washing is essential. You can use medicated eyelid wipes to keep your eyelids clean. The wipes contain antiseptics that are gentle to use on the eye area. If you have sensitive skin, find a preservative-free, natural cleanser. For a more affordable option, use baby shampoo to clean your eyelids. 

Proper Contact Lens Use

Ensure you wash your hands carefully before inserting or removing contact lenses. Make sure you clean and disinfect your lenses daily as recommended. Talk to your eye doctor about the best lens solution. If you are prone to infections, choose a natural, preservative-free solution. Avoid wearing your contacts if you have a stye. 

Styes tend to recur for those prone to getting them, but most tend to go away without treatment. Using premoistened eyelid cleaning pads alongside antibiotic ointments can help prevent a recurrence. Maintaining good hygiene to prevent styes and other eye issues is essential. 

If you have a stye, you must resist the urge to pop it; instead, allow it to drain and heal on its own. Using a warm compress will help speed up the healing process. If you suffer from allergies, avoid rubbing your eyes. 

For more on how to prevent styes, visit Smart Eyecare at our West New York, New Jersey office. Call (201) 854-3411 to schedule an appointment today.