---
title: Treating & Preventing Styes
description: If you’ve had a stye before, you know how irritating they can feel. These little red bumps that appear on the edge of the eyelid are caused by a small oil
image: https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/vba-eyestye_698x360-1.jpg
---

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![](https://blod-dev.vbaplans.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/vba-eyestye_698x360-1.jpg)

If you’ve had a stye before, you know how irritating they can feel. These little red bumps that appear on the edge of the eyelid are caused by a small [oil gland](https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/hordeolum?sso=y#:~:text=Treatment%20includes%20warm%20compresses%20and,or%20drain%20the%20stye%20yourself.) that has become blocked and infected. This leads to the painful swelling we experience on the eyelid.  

Styes can easily be prevented by practicing good hygiene and consistent skincare. Some [important tips](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/styes-can-avoid-best-treatment-tips/) to remember include: 

- Wash off all makeup before bed
- Replace makeup and skincare products every six months
- Wash your hands before using contact lenses and touching your eyes

Catching the stye early on makes it easier to treat and prevent from flaring up. Some [signs](https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/hordeolum?sso=y#:~:text=Treatment%20includes%20warm%20compresses%20and,or%20drain%20the%20stye%20yourself.) of a developing stye include:

- Swelling/pain of the eyelid
- Redness of the eyelid
- Excessive tearing
- Crusting along the eyelid

Fortunately, styes often go away on their own. To lessen the discomfort, make sure to avoid wearing makeup around the eye. Additionally, placing a warm compress on the eyelid for 5-10 minutes throughout the day will help soothe the pain and swelling.

If you’re not seeing any improvement after 48 hours, call your eye care provider to seek additional medical treatment.

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