I have a sty, is it safe to use magnesium chloride for compresses?

Question

I'm going on a trip this weekend, I want to get it all out of the way as quickly as possible. The sty has been persisting for 10 days now. I saw an optometrist who prescribed Tobradex® ointment (Tobramycin/Dexamethasone) which I have been applying for 7 days. I also do warm water compresses 2-4 times a day, use cilnet cleanser and don't wear any makeup. I feel like it's been worse for the last 3 days. I'm going to Cuba at the end of the week, so since my yoga teacher says that it goes away in 24 hours with magnesium chloride compresses, I feel like trying it Thank you. So be patient.. But not dangerous to try it then? Thank you, I appreciate your professional help. Happy Holidays!

Jean-Félix Côté · Accepted Answer

Hello, conditions such as styes and chalazion can take several weeks to disappear completely, so don't get discouraged. In terms of compresses, dry heat is preferred, i.e. a mask with beads that are heated in the microwave. Be sure to follow the recommendations regarding the recommended microwave time. The mask should be very hot, at the limit of what is tolerable without burning. The mask should be applied for several minutes, at least 15 minutes (to be reheated if necessary), for 3-4 times a day. After the compresses, massage the eyelids (if it is a chalazion rather than a stye). As for magnesium chloride, I don't tend to recommend it as masks are more effective. Omega-3 supplementation is useful for the prevention of blepharitis (chronic inflammation of the eyelids.) A dose of at least 2 to 3g per day of DHA and EPA (look on the back label for this information). If you have any other questions, do not hesitate Jean-Felix Cote, pharmacist Personally, I do not recommend it, it is not supported by studies. Considering that the eyes are sensitive I would not tend to do it, but I would not argue that it is safe or dangerous. I'm sorry I don't have a clear answer on this If you really want to try a natural product, hot tea bags can do the trick too The important thing is not to manipulate it and let it heal on its own If you have any other questions, don't hesitate