Make-up wearers across the UK are being urged to perform a crucial check on their beauty products immediately. Experts from Specsavers UK have issued a stark warning that improper removal and using out-of-date cosmetics can significantly increase the risk of developing a painful eye stye.
What is a stye and what causes it?
A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is a small, often painful lump that forms on the inner or outer surface of the eyelid. It is primarily caused by a bacterial infection from staphylococcus (staph) bacteria. Many people will experience at least one stye in their lifetime, but certain habits and conditions can make you more susceptible.
The key risk factors highlighted by specialists include poor eyelid hygiene, which allows oil and bacteria to build up, and pre-existing conditions like blepharitis, rosacea, eczema, and diabetes. A weakened immune system can also make you more prone to infection.
Recognising the signs and types of stye
It is vital to know the symptoms of a developing stye. These can include a red and swollen eyelid, pain or tenderness when blinking, itchy eyes, a gritty sensation, sensitivity to light, crusting, discharge, and watery eyes.
There are two main types of stye. External styes appear along the edge of the eyelid and often clear up on their own within a few days. Internal styes, which form inside or under the lid, are typically more painful. While usually harmless and confined to one eye, it is possible to have multiple styes at once.
How to treat a stye and prevent future ones
If you develop a stye, the NHS recommends a simple three-step process to encourage healing. First, soak a clean flannel in warm water. Then, hold it gently against the closed eye for five to ten minutes. You should repeat this two to four times a day to help reduce swelling.
For pain relief, over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken if safe for you. Crucially, you must avoid wearing contact lenses and eye make-up until the stye has fully healed. The NHS strongly warns against trying to burst the stye or pluck an eyelash yourself, as this can spread the infection.
The most important preventative measure is maintaining good eye hygiene by thoroughly removing all make-up every night. Furthermore, checking the expiry dates on your eye products is essential, as using old mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow can introduce harmful bacteria directly to the eye area.
