A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a small red bump that usually forms on the edge of your eyelid. While styes can look alarming and feel uncomfortable, the good news is that they’re usually harmless and clear up within 7–10 days on their own. Practicing good eyelid hygiene and using safe remedies can help speed up recovery and prevent new styes from forming.

This article explores safe home remedies, when to seek medical treatment, and practical steps for prevention.

What Is a Stye?

A stye is caused by a bacterial infection, usually from Staphylococcus aureus, that infects an oil gland or hair follicle in the eyelid.

Common Symptoms of a Stye

  • Red, swollen bump on the eyelid edge

  • Localized pain or tenderness

  • Watery eyes

  • Crusting along the eyelid margin

  • Sensitivity to light

Though styes may look like pimples, they should never be squeezed or popped. Doing so increases the risk of spreading infection.

How To Get Rid of a Stye at Home

Most styes will heal naturally in about a week. However, there are safe home treatments that can ease discomfort and reduce swelling.

Avoid Irritation

The first and most important rule: Do not squeeze, pop, or pick at the stye.

  • Picking can spread bacteria to other areas of the eye.

  • Irritation may make the bump larger, redder, and more painful.

  • Repeated touching increases the chance of developing multiple styes.

Apply a Warm Compress

Warm compresses are the gold standard home remedy for styes.

  • Use a clean, soft washcloth soaked in warm (not hot) water.

  • Hold it gently against the closed eyelid for 10–15 minutes.

  • Repeat 3–4 times daily until the stye drains and heals.

The warmth helps soften hardened oils and allows the stye to drain naturally.

Practice Eyelid Hygiene

Good hygiene supports healing and prevents recurrence. Follow these tips:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.

  • Remove makeup every night—especially eye makeup like mascara or eyeliner.

  • Avoid using old or expired eye makeup (discard after 3 months).

  • Skip contact lenses until the stye heals.

  • Use a doctor-approved gentle eyelid cleanser or diluted baby shampoo to clean the eyelid.

Any makeup or contact lenses used during a stye infection can harbor bacteria. Dispose of them to avoid reinfection.

What To Expect From Medical Treatment

If your stye is large, painful, or persistent, medical care may be necessary.

Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce discomfort, swelling, and redness.

Prescription Medications

  • Topical antibiotics (like erythromycin ointment) may be prescribed if the infection is bacterial.

  • Oral antibiotics may be required if the infection spreads or if cellulitis (a deeper skin infection) is suspected.

Surgeries and Procedures

If the stye does not improve with other treatments, an ophthalmologist may recommend a minor surgical procedure:

  • A small incision is made to drain the stye.

  • Performed under local anesthesia.

  • Usually takes only a few minutes in an outpatient setting.

⚠️ Never attempt to drain a stye at home. Only a trained medical professional should perform this procedure.

How To Prevent a Stye

While styes are common, you can lower your risk by keeping your eyelids and hands clean.

Preventive Measures

  • Wash your hands before touching your face, inserting contacts, or applying eye drops.

  • Always disinfect or replace contact lenses as instructed.

  • Remove eye makeup completely before bed.

  • Avoid sharing makeup, towels, or pillowcases.

  • Replace eye products frequently to prevent bacterial buildup.

Good daily habits dramatically reduce the chances of recurring styes.

When To Seek Medical Care

Most styes resolve on their own. However, you should contact a doctor if you notice:

  • A stye lasting more than 2 weeks without improvement

  • Severe swelling or pain spreading to other parts of the face

  • Vision problems or blurred eyesight

  • Frequent, recurring styes

  • Signs of cellulitis (redness and swelling spreading around the eye)

Prompt medical care ensures that complications are avoided and treatment is tailored to your needs.

A Quick Review

A stye is a common eyelid infection that usually clears up within a week with proper care. Warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, and avoiding irritation are the safest at-home remedies.

If the stye doesn’t improve, medical options like antibiotics or minor surgical drainage may be recommended. Preventive habits, such as clean hands and safe makeup practices, are key to avoiding future styes.