How to Get Rid of a Stye on Eyelid:16 Natural Remedies

Imagine waking up one morning, looking in the mirror, and noticing a small, painful bump on your eyelid. If you’ve ever experienced this, you know you’re dealing with a stye. That tender, swollen bump not only looks unsightly but can also cause discomfort. In some cases, it may even affect your vision. But don’t worry! There are some natural remedies that can help you get rid of that pesky stye. This article will explore 16 natural remedies for stye on the eyelid that are safe, effective, and easy to implement.

What is Styes on the Eyelid?

A stye, also spelled “sty,” is a red, painful bump that appears on or inside the eyelid. It’s caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland or hair follicle at the base of an eyelash. Styes can make your eyelid swollen, and tender, and sometimes even cause your eye to tear up.

You can think of a stye as a small pimple on your eyelid. Just like acne elsewhere on your body, it’s often caused by bacteria getting trapped in a small space. In this case, it’s usually a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus, which is commonly found on our skin.

Styes can occur on the outside of your eyelid (external hordeolum) or on the inner part of your eyelid (internal hordeolum). External styes are more common and usually more visible, while internal styes can be a bit trickier to spot but are often more painful.

Stye on Eyelid
Stye on Eyelid Symptoms, causes, and treatment

What Causes Stye on the Eyelid?

The primary cause of a stye is usually a bacterial infection, commonly due to the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Several factors can increase the risk of developing a stye:

  • Poor eyelid hygiene: Failure to maintain proper eyelid hygiene, such as not washing the eyelids regularly, can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and debris, increasing the chances of infection.
  • Rubbing or touching the eyes: Frequent rubbing or touching of the eyes with dirty hands can introduce bacteria to the eyelid area.
  • Makeup or cosmetic use: Using expired or contaminated eye makeup, such as mascara or eyeliner, can introduce bacteria to the eyelid and increase the risk of infection.
  • Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses, especially if not properly cleaned and maintained, can contribute to developing a stye.
  • Meibomian gland dysfunction: Dysfunction of the meibomian glands, which produce the oil that helps lubricate the eye, can lead to blockages and increase the risk of stye formation.
  • Weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or other chronic health conditions, may be more susceptible to stye formation.

16 Natural Remedies for Stye on Eyelid

1. Warm Compress

The warm compress is the gold standard of stye treatment. It’s simple, effective, and something you can do right at home. Here’s how:

  • Soak a clean washcloth in warm water
  • Wring out excess water
  • Place the warm cloth over your affected eye for 10-15 minutes
  • Repeat this 3-4 times a day

The warmth helps bring the pus to the surface, encouraging the stye to drain naturally. It’s like giving your eye a soothing spa treatment! The heat also helps increase blood circulation to the area. This can speed up the healing process.

Pro tip: Make sure the water is warm, not hot. You don’t want to risk burning your delicate eyelid skin. Test the temperature on the inside of your wrist before applying it to your eye.

2. Tea Bag Therapy

Who knew your morning cuppa could double as an eye treatment? Black tea bags can be a great alternative to a warm compress. The tannins in black tea have antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection. Simply:

  • Steep a black tea bag in hot water for about a minute
  • Let it cool slightly (test on your wrist to ensure it’s not too hot)
  • Place the warm tea bag on your eye for 5-10 minutes
  • Repeat 2-3 times daily

This remedy combines the benefits of warmth with the antibacterial properties of tea. Plus, it’s a great excuse to brew yourself a cup of tea while you’re at it!

3. Gentle Eyelid Massage

After applying a warm compress, you can gently massage the affected area. This can help stimulate drainage and provide some relief. Remember, your touch should be light – we’re aiming for gentle encouragement, not forceful squeezing!

Here’s how to do it safely:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly
  • Close your eyes
  • Using your clean fingertip, gently massage the eyelid in a circular motion
  • Focus on the area of the stye, but be very gentle
  • Massage for about 30 seconds to a minute

This massage can help break down the pus in the stye and encourage it to drain naturally. It’s like giving your eyelid a mini spa treatment!

Benefits of Coconut Essential Oil
Benefits of Coconut Essential Oil

4. Coconut Oil: Nature’s Antibiotic

Coconut oil is a natural wonder with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Here’s how to use it:

  • Apply a small amount of coconut oil to a cotton swab
  • Gently dab it on the affected eyelid
  • Leave for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water
  • Repeat 3-5 times daily

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has powerful antimicrobial properties. It can help fight the bacteria causing the stye while also soothing the inflamed area. Plus, it’s gentle enough for the delicate skin around your eyes.

5. Baby Shampoo Cleanse

Keeping your eye area clean is crucial when dealing with a stye. Baby shampoo is gentle enough for this delicate task. Mix a few drops with warm water, then use a cotton swab to clean your eyelids gently. This can help prevent further infection and promote healing.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Mix a few drops of baby shampoo with warm water
  • Dip a clean cotton swab or washcloth in the solution
  • Gently wipe your eyelids, paying extra attention to the lash line
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water
  • Pat dry with a clean towel

This cleansing routine not only helps with existing styes but can also prevent future ones by keeping your eyelids clean and free from bacteria.

6. Turmeric Paste

Turmeric isn’t just for cooking – it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with water, apply it to the stye, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. Just be careful not to get it in your eye!

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This golden spice has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and now you can harness its power for your eye health.

7. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing and healing properties. Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel to the stye using a clean cotton swab. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing. The coolness of the gel can provide immediate relief from the discomfort.

Aloe vera is packed with vitamins and minerals that can help reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. It’s like nature’s own first-aid kit for your eyes!

8. Green Tea Compress

Green tea is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Use a cooled green tea bag as a compress, just like you would with black tea. The added benefit? It’s incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day!

Green tea contains catechins, which are powerful antioxidants that can help fight infection and reduce swelling. Plus, the coolness of the tea bag can provide instant relief to your irritated eyelid.

9. Apple Cider Vinegar Solution

Apple cider vinegar is known for its antibacterial properties. Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar, then use a cotton ball to apply this solution around (not in) your eye. Be careful not to get it in your eye as it can sting!

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help kill bacteria and balance the pH of your skin. However, remember to always dilute it before use, as pure apple cider vinegar is too strong for the delicate eye area.

Castor Oil for Eyes
Castor Oil for Eyes

10. Castor Oil Application

Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling. Apply a small amount to the stye using a clean cotton swab. Leave it on overnight and rinse in the morning. It’s like giving your eye a nourishing overnight mask!

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Plus, It can help reduce swelling and pain associated with styes. Plus, its moisturizing properties can help keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated.

11. Coriander Seed Water

Boil a tablespoon of coriander seeds in a cup of water, strain, and let it cool. Use this water to gently wash your eye area. Coriander has antimicrobial properties that can help fight the infection causing the stye.

Here’s how to prepare it:

  • Boil 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds in 1 cup of water for 5 minutes
  • Strain the liquid and let it cool to room temperature
  • Use a clean cotton ball to apply the coriander water to your eyelid
  • Repeat this 2-3 times a day

Coriander has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern research supports its antimicrobial properties. It’s a gentle yet effective way to combat the bacteria causing your stye.

12. Guava Leaves Compress

Boil a few guava leaves in water, let it cool, then use this water to make a compress. Guava leaves have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

To make a guava leaf compress:

  • Boil 4-5 guava leaves in 2 cups of water for 5 minutes
  • Strain and let the liquid cool until it’s comfortably warm
  • Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply it to your eye as a compress
  • Hold for 5-10 minutes, repeating 3-4 times a day

Guava leaves are rich in compounds like quercetin and kaempferol, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This natural remedy can help soothe your stye while fighting the underlying infection.

13. Clove Oil Dilution

Mix a drop of clove oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply it around the stye (not in your eye). Clove oil has antimicrobial properties, but it’s strong, so always dilute it before use.

Clove oil contains eugenol, a compound with powerful antimicrobial properties. However, it’s crucial to dilute it properly, as pure clove oil can be irritating to the skin, especially around the eyes. Always do a patch test on your arm before applying it near your eye to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.

14. Epsom Salt Soak

Dissolve a teaspoon of Epsom salt in a cup of warm water. Soak a clean cloth in this solution and use it as a compress. Epsom salt can help draw out the infection and reduce swelling.

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. When used as a compress, it can help reduce inflammation and draw out toxins. The warmth of the compress also helps increase blood circulation to the area, promoting faster healing.

15. Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is known for its antibacterial properties. Apply a few drops to the stye using a clean cotton swab. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before using colloidal silver, as its effectiveness and safety are still debated.

While some people swear by colloidal silver for various health issues, including eye infections, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting its use is limited. Always use it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

16. Calendula Tea Rinse

Brew some calendula tea, let it cool, and use it to gently rinse your eye area. Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can aid in healing.

To make a calendula tea rinse:

  • Steep 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes
  • Strain and let the tea cool to room temperature
  • Use a clean cotton ball to apply the tea to your eyelid
  • Repeat this 2-3 times a day

Calendula has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and redness, while its antimicrobial effects can help fight the infection causing the stye.

How to Prevent Styes on the Eyelid?

While these remedies can help you get rid of a stye, prevention is always better. Here are some tips to keep styes at bay:

  • Practice good hygiene: Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or face. This simple habit can significantly reduce your risk of transferring bacteria to your eyes.
  • Remove makeup: Never sleep with your makeup on. Always remove it thoroughly before bed. Leftover makeup can clog your pores and hair follicles, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
  • Replace old makeup: Throw out any eye makeup that’s more than 3 months old. Over time, makeup can accumulate bacteria, increasing your risk of eye infections.
  • Clean your eyelids: Gently clean your eyelids daily with baby shampoo or a mild soap. This helps remove any buildup of oils or bacteria that could lead to a stye.
  • Don’t share: Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, or eye makeup with others. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria from person to person.
  • Manage stress: High-stress levels can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can boost your immune system. Focus on foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc, which are all important for eye health.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your eyes lubricated, reducing the risk of infections.
  • Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes: This can introduce bacteria to your eye area. If you must touch your eyes, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Use clean pillowcases: Change your pillowcase regularly, ideally once a week. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that could transfer to your eyes while you sleep.

When to See a Doctor?

While most styes clear up on their own within a week or two, sometimes they need medical attention. See a doctor if:

  • The stye doesn’t improve after 48 hours of home treatment
  • The redness and swelling spread beyond your eyelid
  • Your vision is affected
  • You have recurring styes
  • You experience fever or chills along with the stye
  • The stye is extremely painful
  • You have a history of blepharitis or other chronic eye conditions

Remember, your eyes are precious. While these home remedies can be effective, they’re not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Related Questions

1. Can you pop a stye on the eyelid?

Don’t touch, squeeze, or pop a stye. It can seem tempting, but popping will release pus and spread the infection. If the stye is internal, ask your doctor for professional drainage.

2. What does a stye on the eyelid look like?

Styes look a lot like regular pimples. They’re usually red with a white head and appear near the edge of the eyelid. However, they can also form on the inside of the eyelid. In most cases, styes vanish within a week or two without treatment. If your stye is filled with blood, see a doctor.

3. Is stye on the eyelid contagious?

Styes are typically not contagious, but the bacteria causing them can spread to other areas of your body or other people. Practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of spreading the infection.

4. How long does it take for a stye to go away?

Styes usually go away on their own within one to two weeks. However, with the use of natural remedies and proper care, you can speed up the healing process.

5. Can I wear makeup while having a stye?

It is advisable to avoid wearing makeup while you have a stye as it can further irritate the affected area and delay the healing process. Once the stye has resolved, make sure to replace any makeup products that may have come into contact with the infected eye.