Stye: Treatment

Never pick at, pop or squeeze the lump, whether it's a stye or a chalazion. This can cause and/or spread infection to the rest of the eye. Instead, to help unclog the gland, apply a hot-water compress three to five times a day for 10 minutes at a stretch. (After five minutes, refresh the compress with hot water.) Treat a chalazion the same way.

If this treatment doesn’t work after a few days, see an eye doctor. He or she may prescribe an antibiotic ointment or treat the bump with a steroid injection. In rare cases, surgery is necessary to drain a stubborn sty.

Skip eye makeup and don’t wear contact lenses until the area heals fully.