Whiteheads are tiny, oil-filled bumps that can occur anywhere on the skin. True whiteheads pose no health risks, but many eye conditions superficially resemble whiteheads. Whiteheads don't normally hurt unless they've been picked or squeezed, so pain from a bump on the eyelid always warrants a call to your eye care provider. Never attempt to squeeze any bump on the eye. Your hand can slip and cause severe eye injuries, and squeezing the bump can push infection deeper into the skin.
Chalazion Cyst
Meibomian glands are tiny, sebum-secreting glands that keep the eyes lubricated. An inflammation or blockage of these glands causes chalazion cysts. They superficially resemble whiteheads, and are normally painless. However, when chalazion cysts become infected or poke the cornea, they are very painful. In most cases, they go away on their own in a few days or weeks, but infected cysts require antibiotic treatment prescribed by an eye doctor.
Stye
Any eye stye, according to the American College of Physicians "Complete Home Health Medical Guide," is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. These bumps occur along the base of the eyelashes and frequently look like whiteheads in the early stages. They typically become painful, red and inflamed and may make the eyes itchy or watery. Like chalazion cysts, they normally go away on their own, but may require antibiotic treatment if they become severely inflamed or interfere with vision.
Excess Oil
Like other parts of the skin, the eyelids are susceptible to simple whiteheads as a result of blocked sebaceous glands. The Mayo Clinic's "Family Health Book" reports that the skin on the eyelids is typically less oily than the rest of the face, making eyelid whiteheads less common. When they do develop, they may be caused by incomplete makeup removal, excessive sweating, or oily skincare products. Because eyelid skin is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of the face, they are frequently painful. Avoid wearing makeup or applying skincare products to the affected area. The whitehead will clear up after several days.
Allergic Reactions
A row of whiteheads along the eyelid may indicate an allergic reaction. Many people suffer from cosmetic allergies, and if you've recently switched makeup products, an allergy could be the culprit. Stop wearing makeup for a few days to see if the whiteheads go away on their own. An optometrist or opthamologist may be able to recommend hypoallergenic eye makeup.
References
- "Merck Home Health Handbook: Third Edition"; Robert Porter; 2009
- "American College of Physicians Complete Home Medical Guide"; David R. Goldman; 2003
- "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, Fourth Edition"; Mayo Clinic; 2009
