When a chalazion develops on your eye, it can be a worrying and unsightly issue to deal with. Despite generally being non-threatening and painless, it is still important to know how to recognize them, what causes them, preventative measures you can take, and potential treatments for this problem.
Treatment for Chalazion
Some of the most effective treatments for chalazion include the use of ointments, solutions, and medicated pads, as well as the first line of defense – a warm compress.
Warm Compress
This classic solution is often the first thing people try when a chalazion begins to develop. The warm water helps to open the glands and it either clears the blockage or reduces some of the swellings. [1]
Solution
Many companies produce specific solutions of eye drops that can be flushed through the eye in the hopes of clearing out the hardened oil and reducing the inflammation on the eyelid.
A chalazion is a small, slow-growing lump or cyst that develops within the eyelid. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Ointment
If the redness and swelling have spread beyond the eyelid to other areas of the skin, or if the chalazion has opened, using an antibiotic ointment (e.g., Neosporin) can help reduce the irritation on the skin. It also helps in protecting the open wound from any infections or external pathogens. [2]
Medicated Pad
Some people choose to apply a medicated pad or an eyelid scrub to physically flush out the blockage from the gland and restore a normal function and eye fluid production.
Home Remedies for Chalazion
Many people prefer to treat their medical conditions more naturally, and in the case of a chalazion, you may use castor oil, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, green tea bags, or onions.
Onions
The active ingredients in onions are antioxidant, but also antibacterial and antiviral. If the chalazion responds well to onion juice being rubbed when gently on the inflammation, it may open, exposing itself to infection, which the onion juice will also defend against. [3]
Aloe Vera
Known as one of the best anti-inflammatory substances on the planet, a bit of aloe vera gel gently applied to the inflamed eyelid can quickly reduce discomfort and restore normal vision. It will also help in encouraging proper gland production by helping to eliminate the hardened oil that is causing the blockage. [4]
Green Tea Bags
After brewing your next cup of green tea, don’t throw away the used tea bag, refrigerate it. You can place these cold green tea bags on your eyelid, allowing the antioxidants to work their magic on the inflamed glands. This helps in eliminating the toxins and restoring normal order to your eyelid. [5]
Apple Cider Vinegar
With powerful detoxifying and antiviral properties, apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for a chalazion, although it can be dangerous to use this substance. After all, it is still vinegar but applying a small amount on the swollen or inflamed eyelid can quickly reduce the swelling and protect against infection. [6]
Castor Oil
Using a small cotton swab, rub a few drops of castor oil on the inflamed skin of the eyelid. You will see an almost immediate reaction. The size of the swelling will be reduced and when the gland is less inflamed, it may be easier to flush out with other remedies, thus allowing it to resume its normal function. [7]
Prevention of Chalazion
The best way to prevent the formation of this swollen bead on your eyelid is to properly remove your makeup before going to sleep. Avoid using cosmetics that haven’t been properly stored. Washing your face with warm water in the evening before bed is also a good practice to clear out excess oil from the face. [8]
Regularly checking the inside of your eyelid for any inflammation is also a good way to catch a chalazion forming before it becomes overly inflamed. This is a particularly good preventative measure for people who have had these in the past, as they are more susceptible to a gland blockage shortly.
It is very important to protect your eyes from any external damage, which can often be caused by your fault. For example, don’t rub your eyes unless your fingers are cleaned, and even then, be gentle to avoid inflammation. Also, protect your eyes from dust and debris while walking on a windy day, or working in a dusty environment.
