Botox and styes?

Question

I struggled with styes during the time I was receiving Botox around my eyes. I haven’t had Botox for over 8 months now and no styes. I read that Botox can paralyze the sweat glands preventing them from working properly. I’d like to continue treatment but afraid styes will return. Where around the eyes is it unsafe as this may occur?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry that you've had issues with styes after previous Botox treatments.  While there is no direct correlation between the two, the effects from Botox could make you more prone based on the injection locations and your history.  The further you inject from your eyes the less likely you are to have this issue.  Keeping skin healthy and balanced should also help.  We always recommend using medical grade skin care products and wearing sunscreen every day.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

It's understandable to be concerned about the relationship between Botox and the development of styes. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing muscles, and while it is not typically known to affect sweat glands directly, any alteration in the normal function of the muscles around the eyes could potentially contribute to issues like styes, especially if the meibomian glands (oil glands in the eyelids) are affected.

Styes are usually caused by blocked oil glands or bacterial infections. Ensuring proper eyelid hygiene and using warm compresses can help prevent them. It’s also crucial to have Botox administered by a skilled and experienced professional who can avoid areas that might increase the risk of complications.

If you are considering resuming Botox treatments, I recommend discussing your concerns with your dermatologist or the healthcare provider administering the Botox. They can tailor the injection sites to minimize the risk of styes and monitor your response to the treatment closely.

Botox and styes?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Botox and styes?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.