Dry Skin Around The Eyelids And What To Do About It?
Dry eyelid conditions don’t sound that serious and in most instances, they are nothing but acutely annoying. But for some patients, dry eyelids can lead to chronic conditions of the eyelid that are more than just irritating. Dry eyelids can result in frustration, distraction, and in extreme cases, pain and visual disturbance.
What are the symptoms of dry eyelids?
There are multiple symptoms associated with dry eyelids which include:
- Itching
- Soreness
- Swelling
- Scaly skin
- Discoloration of the skin
What causes dry eyelids?
For most eyelid pain sufferers, the condition is the result of nothing more than dry skin. Patients who have underlying conditions such as psoriasis or eczema (described below) are especially prone to eyelid dryness.
Some common causes of dry eyelids can be:
- Toiletry items (shampoos and conditioners)
- Cosmetics – Specifically those containing – preservatives, antioxidants, resins, pearlescent additives, emollients, fragrances and pigment contaminants.
- Allergic reactions
- Cleaning agents
- Hair dye with the active ingredient p-Phenylenediamine
- An eyelash curler
- Other underlying conditions (see below)
There are times when dry eyelids can be the result of conditions such as the following:
- Blepharitis: Blepharitis is a result of chronic inflammation of the eye typically from bacteria or an allergic reaction to something in the environment. Not just a little disturbing, at times Blepharitiscan lead to severe pain and interruption of daily activities.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. Its symptoms include flaking, inflammation, and thick, white, silvery, or red patches of skin
- Eyelid Dermatitis: Also be called eye lid eczema, Eyelid Dermatitis is an inflammatory allergic reaction to something that comes into direct contact with one’s eyelids. It may also be due to allergy or irritation. Common cause of allergic eyelid dermatitis is the use of cosmetic products that provoke an allergic reaction.
- Atopic Dermatitis: A reaction to airborne allergens. It can be caused by a number of factors, including stresses and dysfunctions of the immune system.
- SeborrheicDermatitis: A skin condition that creates flaking and scaling and happens when the skin reacts to its own natural oils and bacteria and forms a rash. The rashisoften reddish color and has a swollen and greasy appearance or white or yellowish crusty scale on the surface.
Obviously, several conditions can lead to dry eyelid irritation. They can be either acute irritants or a sign of something more serious. The only way to diagnose what may be causing your dry eyelids is to have an eye exam from an eye care specialist.
How do you treat dry eyelid conditions?
The treatment for dry eyelid conditions is often determined by what the underlying cause is. Since the skin under the eyelid is so sensitive, applying moisturizers and lotions can sometimes make the condition worse or cause more irritation. If you are going to use lotion, make sure that it is specifically designated for under the eyes.
Before applying anything close to or around your eyelid, it is a good idea to talk to an eye care specialist for recommendations. Avoid products may exacerbate the condition. Choose non-hypoallergenic soaps, shampoos, and lotions. Also, try to avoid cosmetics until eye dryness is resolved.
It is important to avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes. Often, your hands can unwittingly be carrying allergens. So, touching your face will only transmit them and make your eyes more irritated.
Here are some questions you may want to ask you eye doctor:
- Which over-the-counter moisturizers can be used for dry eyelids?
- Is prescription strength medication necessary clear up dry eyelids?
- What is the underlying cause of dry eyelids?
- When should a dry eye condition be referred to a dermatologist?
- What symptoms would warrant an immediate trip to the eye doctor or dermatologist?
The best way to treat your dry eyelid condition is by having an eye exam to discern the underlying condition that is driving your dry eye irritation. The professionals at Village Eyecare in Chicago can help both diagnose and create a sound treatment plan to get your dry eyelid condition under control. They can also ensure that it isn’t anything more serious than just a little dry skin. Contact Village Eyecare today for more information.