Know 5 Important Dermatologist Tips for Dry Eyelids(Blepharitis)
Know 5 Important Dermatologist Tips for Dry Eyelids(Blepharitis)
You may be suffering from dry, itchy, and red eyes, or visible flakes of skin on the lower eyelid – did you know there are a number of dermatologist tips for eye health that can be implemented to help eliminate symptoms? These include cleaning your hands regularly, wearing sunglasses outdoors when possible to prevent damage to the surface of your skin (UV), using emollients, and avoiding activities that might irritate your skin like rubbing. Discover more in this article, including what other factors contribute to the appearance of dry eyelids like blepharitis.
What is Blepharitis?
Common and persistent eyelid irritation is known as blepharitis. It can be caused by bacteria, allergies, or other irritants. Symptoms include red, itchy, and burning eyes. Treatment typically involves cleaning the eyelids and using artificial tears to relieve symptoms.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
The symptoms of blepharitis can vary depending on the type of blepharitis you have. The most common symptoms include:
- Itchiness and redness around the eyelids.
- Burning or stinging eyes.
- A sensation that something is stuck in your eye.
- Increased tears or drainage from your eyes.
- Crusty debris on your eyelashes.
- Swollen, red, and inflamed eyelids.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an experienced dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes of Blepharitis
Common and persistent eyelid irritation is known as blepharitis. It occurs when the oil glands in the eyelids become clogged and bacteria begin to grow. Blepharitis can occur at any age, but it is most common in adults.
There are two types of blepharitis: anterior blepharitis, which affects the front part of the eyelid, and posterior blepharitis, which affects the back part of the eyelid.
Common Causes of Blepharitis Include:
Dirty hands: Bacteria can be transferred to the eyes from contaminated hands.
Makeup: Using old or expired makeup can also lead to bacterial growth on the eyelids.
Eye irritation: Any type of eye irritation, such as from contact lenses or pollution, can worsen blepharitis.
Primary Treatments for Blepharitis
There are many different treatments for blepharitis, but primary treatments typically fall into one of two categories: medical or surgical.
Medical treatments for blepharitis include topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics, and/or steroids. These medications can help to reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that may be causing the infection.
Surgical treatments for blepharitis include lid scrubs, cautery, and/or thermal tearing. Lid scrubs involve using a sterile brush or cotton swab to gently remove any crusting from the eyelids. Cautery is a process of using heat to destroy the tissue that is causing the infection. Thermal tearing uses heat to break up the oils that are clogging the glands in the eyelids.
Secondary Treatments for Blepharitis
If you have dry eyes, chances are you also have a condition called blepharitis. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause your eyes to feel dry and irritated. While there is no cure for blepharitis, there are treatments that can help relieve your symptoms and keep the condition under control.
One of the most important things you can do to treat blepharitis is to keep your eyelids clean and free of debris. You should gently wash your eyelids with mild soap and warm water at least once a day. You may also need to use a special eyelid cleanser or scrub to remove the build-up on your lashes. Pay close attention to the instructions on the product label.
If over-the-counter treatments don’t seem to be helping, talk to your eye doctor about prescription options. There are several topical medications that can be used to treat blepharitis, including antibiotics, steroids, and anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, oral medications may also be necessary.
Prevention Steps for Dry Eyelids (Blepharitis)
Dry eyelids, also known as blepharitis, are a common and irritating condition that can be difficult to get rid of. The good news is, there are several things you can do to prevent dry eyelids and keep them from coming back.
Here are Some Prevention Steps for Dry Eyelids:
- Keep your eyes clean – Be sure to clean your eyelids regularly with mild soap and warm water. Gently massage the lids to loosen any crusting or debris. You can also use a wet cotton ball or soft cloth to remove any buildup around the lash line.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals – When cleaning your eyelids, avoid using any harsh chemicals or detergents. These can irritate the already sensitive skin of the eyelid and make the condition worse.
- Use a humidifier – Dry air can worsen blepharitis, so using a humidifier in your home or office can help keep your eyelids moist and healthy.
- Limit contact lens wear – If you wear contact lenses, try to limit their use as much as possible. This will give your eyes a chance to rest and heal from any irritation caused by the lenses.
- Visit your doctor – If you have persistent dry eyes or blepharitis that doesn’t seem to be improving with home care, be sure to visit your doctor or an eye specialist for further treatment options.
Conclusion
If you have dry, itchy, or inflamed eyelids, then you may be suffering from blepharitis. This condition is relatively common and can usually be easily treated with the help of a dermatologist. Here are 5 important tips to keep in mind if you’re dealing with blepharitis:
- Keep your eyelids clean by gently washing them with a mild cleanser each day.
- Apply a warm compress to your eyelids for a few minutes at least once or twice per day.
- Use an eye ointment or cream to moisturize your eyelids and prevent further irritation.
- Avoid using any makeup or skincare products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.