How to Get Rid of a Stye: 8 Effective Home Remedies and When to See a Doctor

A stye (also called a hordeolum) is a small, painful red bump that develops along the edge of the eyelid. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection of an eyelash follicle or an oil-producing gland in the eyelid.

Although styes can be uncomfortable, most heal on their own within one to two weeks with proper home care.

Here are the best ways to relieve discomfort and speed up recovery.

1. Apply a Warm Compress

A warm compress is the most effective home treatment for a stye.

Here's how to do it:

• Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water.

• Wring out the excess water.

• Place it gently over the affected eyelid for 10–15 minutes.

• Repeat 3–6 times a day.

The warmth helps soften blocked oil, encourages natural drainage, and reduces pain and swelling.

2. Keep Your Eyelids Clean

Good eyelid hygiene can help prevent the infection from worsening.

• Wash your hands before touching your eyes.

• Gently clean your eyelids with warm water or a mild eyelid cleanser.

• Use a clean towel each time.

Avoid rubbing the affected eye.

3. Never Pop or Squeeze the Stye

It may be tempting to squeeze a stye, but doing so can:

• Spread the infection.

• Increase swelling.

• Delay healing.

• Lead to more serious complications.

Allow the stye to drain naturally.

4. Stop Wearing Eye Makeup and Contact Lenses

While your eye is healing:

• Avoid mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow.

• Do not wear contact lenses until the stye has completely healed.

This helps reduce irritation and lowers the risk of spreading bacteria.

5. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief If Needed

If the stye is painful, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen may help relieve discomfort.

Always follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult a healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or are unsure whether these medications are appropriate for you.

6. Avoid Sharing Personal Items

To prevent spreading bacteria:

• Do not share towels or washcloths.

• Wash pillowcases regularly.

• Replace old eye makeup after the infection has cleared.

Maintaining good hygiene helps reduce the chance of another stye developing.

7. Eat a Healthy Diet to Support Healing

While no food can cure a stye, a balanced diet can support your immune system.

Choose foods rich in:

• Vitamin C

• Vitamin A

• Zinc

• Protein

Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep may also help your body recover more efficiently.

8. Know When It's Time to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• The stye does not improve after 48–72 hours.

• It lasts longer than one to two weeks.

• The swelling becomes severe.

• Redness spreads across the face or around the eye.

• You develop a fever.

• Your vision becomes blurry or changes.

• You experience severe eye pain.

• Styes keep coming back.

A healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotic medication or, in some cases, drain the stye if it does not heal on its own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While treating a stye, avoid these common errors:

• ❌ Popping or squeezing the stye.

• ❌ Rubbing your eyes.

• ❌ Wearing contact lenses during the infection.

• ❌ Using expired eye makeup.

• ❌ Sharing towels or cosmetics with others.

Can You Prevent a Stye?

Although not every stye can be prevented, these habits may lower your risk:

• Wash your hands frequently.

• Remove eye makeup before bed.

• Clean contact lenses properly.

• Replace eye makeup every few months.

• Keep your eyelids clean if you're prone to recurring styes.

The Bottom Line

A stye is a common eyelid infection that usually resolves on its own with simple home care. Applying warm compresses, practicing good eyelid hygiene, and avoiding squeezing the bump are the most effective ways to promote healing.

If your symptoms worsen, affect your vision, or fail to improve after one to two weeks, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.