Did you know our eyelids have many oil glands that produce an eye-lubricating oil that makes tears stick to the eyeball? As useful as they may be, these glands are unfortunately prone to blockages caused by excess dead skin cells, oil and bacteria, which may manifest as pimple-like formations on the eyelid – the process is similar to how pimples form when facial pores get clogged.
Styes (hordeolum) are small, red bumps that form on or around the eyelid when hair follicles or oil glands on the eyelid become clogged or infected. Common stye symptoms include:
- A painful lump on the eyelid
- Crust formation around the eyelid
- Increased tear production
- Redness on the eyelid
- Soreness and itchiness
Although unsightly, styes should not be a cause for too much concern as they typically resolve on their own in a few days or weeks. Here are ten home remedies that can help mitigate stye symptoms and accelerate the healing process.
1.Clean Your Eyelids With Warm Water And Mild Soap
Maintaining proper eye hygiene not only helps treat styes but also prevents them. Since the eye area is very sensitive, avoid excessively harsh, synthetic chemicals and instead opt for non-irritating, hypoallergenic cleaners.
If you have a stye, clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap on a soft washcloth – this combination eliminates dirt buildup and effectively kills several strains of bacteria, which prevents the infection from spreading. Some good alternatives to mild soap would be tear-free baby shampoo mixed with warm water or a saline solution: the latter breaks down bacterial membranes while promoting drainage.