Poor eye hygiene keeps styes coming back: Eye specialist explains habits that raise eyelid infection risk
New Delhi: A red, swollen and tender bump on the eyelid is something most people deal with at least once. Many treat a stye as a minor nuisance, yet it can cause real discomfort and get in the way of daily routines. Occasional episodes are common, but styes that keep returning may point to poor eye hygiene or an underlying eyelid condition. Rubbing the eyes with unwashed hands, sleeping in eye makeup, using contaminated cosmetics and careless contact lens handling all raise the risk of infection.
In a communication to News9 Digital, Dr Nisha Ahuja, Chief Medical Officer, Sankara Eye Hospital, Anand, explains the causes, warning signs, prevention and when to see a specialist. Read here in detail.
Stye causes
Explaining what a stye is, Dr Nisha Ahuja said, “A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is a painful, red lump that develops near the edge of the eyelid when an oil gland or eyelash follicle becomes infected. It is commonly associated with bacterial infection, particularly Staphylococcus bacteria.”
Describing the role of the eyelid glands, she said, “The eyelids contain several tiny oil glands that help maintain a healthy tear film and prevent excessive evaporation of tears. When these glands become blocked or infected, a stye can develop. Poor eyelid hygiene, touching the eyes frequently, using contaminated eye makeup, and existing eyelid inflammation can increase the likelihood of developing a stye.”
Recurrent styes and eye hygiene
Confirming the link between hygiene and repeat styes, Dr Ahuja said, “Yes, inadequate eye hygiene can contribute to repeated episodes of styes. Our hands come into contact with several surfaces throughout the day, and touching or rubbing the eyes without washing them can transfer bacteria to the eyelid area. Similarly, not removing eye makeup before sleeping, sharing cosmetics and continuing to use old or contaminated products can increase the risk of infection.”
Pointing to other causes, she added, “However, recurrent styes are not always caused by poor hygiene. An underlying condition called blepharitis, which causes inflammation along the eyelid margins, can also make a person more susceptible to repeated infections. Blepharitis may cause itching, redness, crusting around the eyelashes and a gritty sensation in the eyes. People with meibomian gland dysfunction, rosacea and certain other skin conditions may also experience recurring eyelid problems.”
Habits that raise eyelid infection risk
Warning that “several seemingly harmless habits can affect eyelid health”, Dr Ahuja listed the following.
On rubbing the eyes, she said, “Touching the eyes with unwashed hands can transfer bacteria and irritants to the eyelids.”
On sleeping with makeup on, she said, “Leaving mascara, eyeliner and other cosmetics on overnight can contribute to blocked oil glands and irritation.”
On old cosmetics, she said, “Expired or contaminated eye makeup may increase the risk of bacterial contamination.”
On contact lens care, she said, “Handling contact lenses without washing hands or failing to clean and disinfect them properly can increase the risk of eye infections.”
On shared items, she said, “Sharing towels, face cloths and eye cosmetics may expose the eyelid area to infectious agents.”
How to prevent recurrent styes
Advising on prevention, Dr Ahuja said, “Maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is one of the most important steps towards reducing the risk of recurring styes. Eye specialists recommend washing hands before touching the eyes, removing eye makeup completely before bedtime and keeping the eyelids and eyelashes clean. People who experience frequent eyelid inflammation may benefit from regular eyelid cleaning using doctor-recommended lid wipes or cleansing solutions.”
Recommending a warm compress, she said, “Applying a clean, comfortably warm compress over closed eyelids can also help soften accumulated oils and support the functioning of the eyelid glands. However, people experiencing recurrent symptoms should seek an ophthalmologist’s advice rather than relying entirely on home remedies. Contact lens users should follow recommended cleaning, disinfection and replacement schedules. They should also avoid wearing contact lenses when experiencing an active eye infection unless advised otherwise by their eye specialist.”
When to see an eye specialist
Advising when to seek medical help, Dr Ahuja said, “Although many uncomplicated styes improve with appropriate home care, persistent or recurrent eyelid swelling should not be ignored. People should consult an ophthalmologist if they experience repeated styes, increasing pain, significant swelling, persistent discharge or vision changes. Redness and swelling spreading beyond the eyelid, fever, or severe discomfort also require prompt medical attention.”
Explaining the difference between a stye and a chalazion, she said, “It is important to distinguish between a stye and a chalazion. While a stye is generally an infection of an eyelid gland or eyelash follicle, a chalazion develops when an oil gland becomes blocked, resulting in a lump that is usually less painful. Repeated episodes may require an evaluation for underlying conditions such as blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or other contributing health problems.”
Stressing the larger point, she said, “Maintaining good eye hygiene is not just about keeping the eyes clean; it is also about protecting the delicate structures surrounding them. Simple habits such as washing hands, removing makeup before bedtime and following proper contact lens care can go a long way towards reducing the risk of eyelid infections. If styes keep returning, identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential rather than repeatedly treating the visible swelling.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on the research and inputs shared by the doctor mentioned above and is intended for informational purposes only. The findings should not be considered medical advice or used for self-diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance.