Boils are pus-filled skin infections that
occur around a hair follicle or oil gland.
This causes a red, painful lump to form as
pus collects under the skin.
A boil that occurs on the eyelid is called
a stye.
To treat a boil or stye, follow these tips
from dermatologists:
Applying heat in the form of a warm compress
is the best way to treat boils and styes at
home.
To make a warm compress, soak a clean washcloth
in hot water.
Be careful not to use water that is too hot,
especially on children.
Hold the warm compress over the affected area
for 10 to 15 minutes.
Do this three to four times daily until the
boil or stye releases pus and heals.
Never squeeze or pierce a boil or stye yourself,
as this can spread the infection.
If your boil or stye is painful, consider
taking an ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help
reduce the pain.
Make sure you read the directions on the packaging
for the correct dose.
Always keep the area clean, and avoid touching
or rubbing the boil or stye.
If you have a stye, avoid wearing eye make-up
or contact lenses until the stye heals.
If your boil bursts, cover it with a sterile
bandage or gauze to prevent infection while
it heals.
Most boils and styes heal on their own within
one to three weeks.
However, if the pain or swelling worsens after
several days, another boil or stye appears,
or you develop a fever or vision problems
with the infection, see your doctor or a board-certified
dermatologist.
To find a dermatologist in your area, visit
aad.org.
