Sunday, March 24, 2024
HomeCauseWhat Causes Eczema On Your Eyelids

What Causes Eczema On Your Eyelids

Is Eyelid Eczema The Same As Eyelid Dermatitis

Eczema on Eyelids 2021 | Causes, Symptoms, Types, Treatment and Prevention

Yes, eyelid eczema may also be referred to as eyelid dermatitis, as dermatitis, a term for inflammation of the skin, and eczema are often used interchangeably.

The eyelids can be affected by several types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema. Atopic means theres a genetic predisposition to develop an allergic disease because the immune system is more likely to react strongly to certain allergens and irritants. The following types of eczema can also affect the eyelids:

  • Contact dermatitis

  • Seborrheic dermatitis

What Are Little Red Bumps Under The Eyes

If you have red bumps under your eyes you might have rosacea or periocular dermatitis. Rosacea is a condition in which the skin on your face frequently turns red, swells, itches or breaks out in small bumps. Rosacea is common, affecting about 14 million Americans, but many are unaware that they have it.

Who Gets Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis

Allergic eyelid contact dermatitis can occur in anyone. It is no more likely in those with known sensitive skin or atopic eczema than it is in people that have previously had no skin problem.

Contact allergy usually develops after repeated previous contact with the allergen, so it is not necessarily a new substance that has triggered the allergy.

Read Also: Blue Light Therapy For Eczema

Whats The Best Eyelid Eczema Treatment

If you do have eczema on your eyelids, youll want to do your best to avoid your triggers. This can range from pretty easy to completely ludicrous, depending on what specifically incites your eczema. If you cant steer clear of your triggers, or if doing so isnt enough to calm your eyelid eczema, you may need some extra help from a pro.

This is one of the hardest forms of eczema to treat with medication because of the sensitive area we are treating, Dr. Rodney says. We have to make sure your eyemeaning your eyeballis safe, as some prescriptions can lead to complications like glaucoma.

To treat any form of eczema, experts will often recommend topical corticosteroids to battle inflammation, the Mayo Clinic says, but these can be too strong on your delicate eyelid skin. If your doctor decides a corticosteroid cream is the best treatment for your case of eczema, theyll likely only prescribe it for a short period of time because it can cause thinning of your eyelids and the skin around your eyes, Cynthia Bailey, M.D., a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and president and CEO of Advanced Skin Care and Dermatology Inc., tells SELF. This treatment needs to be supervised by a physician, Dr. Bailey says.

Dr. Rodney also suggests placing a thin layer of petroleum jelly around and on your eyelids twice a day to reinforce the protective skin barrier, hydrate the dry skin, and reduce itching.

What Are The Symptoms Of Eczema On Eyelid

Eczema on Eyelids: Types

The symptoms of eczema on eyelid depend on the source of allergy and the time of exposure. However, there are some general symptoms encountered in all patients and these are:

  • Intense itching, especially at night
  • Redness of the affected outer skin of the eyelid
  • Red and watery conjunctiva
  • Lesions of various forms, sizes and shapes macules, papules, vesicles or blisters
  • Chronic and constant exposure to an allergenic substance can lead to the following symptoms:
  • Itchiness present but less intense
  • The eyelid skin is dry and scaly
  • The affected area becomes thickened in time.
  • Infection secondary to scratching
  • Loss of eyelashes and eyebrow hair
  • Visual obstruction if there is eyelid or periorbital edema associated.
  • Don’t Miss: Is Celery Good For Eczema

    How Do I Know If I Have Eczema On The Eyelids

    Those who do can experience symptoms like dry, red, and itchy skin around the eyes. Eczema around the eyes causes swelling on the thin layer of skin, making it appear brownish and wrinkled. Scaling may also be observed on one or both eyelids.

    At the onset of the condition, the irritated skin becomes extra sensitive. In some cases, a burning sensation may be felt that can cause further irritation.

    If the cause of the eczema is known, treatment can be more effective and immediate. Physical exams can help doctors diagnose skin conditions and get more in-depth information about their possible causes. However, if triggers cannot be identified or avoided, treatment to manage symptoms will be applied.

    What Are The Most Common Causes Of Eyelid Rashes

    Some common causes of allergic eyelid rashes are listed below: Nail polish One of the most common causes for eyelid dermatitis among women involves nail polish. Cosmetics Another common source of eyelid rash among women involves the use of eye cosmetics. Nickel As noted above, an allergic reaction to nickel can result in an eyelid rash, even if the metal does not touch your eye. More items

    Recommended Reading: Cerave Moisturizing Cream For Eczema

    Recommended Reading: Why Is My Eczema Burning

    Eczema Around The Eye Lids And How To Reduce The Itchy And Stinging:

    Eczema around the eye lids is fairly common and results in uncomfortable itchy eye lids. We see a singificant amount of eczema around the eye lids as this causes eye discomfort. Usually clients call us for an itchy or watery eye and are then examined during a MECS appointment. The eczema is usually around the inner corners of the eye lids, towards the nose, by the tear drains. In severe cases it may extend towards the outer corners of the eye lids as well and even down to the cheeks. Eczema can also show up behind the ears and in the folds of the skin, e.g. by the arms and legs.

    The skin swells up and wrinkles due the the eczema, this in itself is uncomfortable and causes itchy eye lids. This is of course going to affect both eyes to some extend, discomfort in just one eye is very unlikely to be eczema. Eczema can be caused by allergies, stress, skin products. It is more common in people with asthma and or hayfever. Eczema is also called atopic dermatitis, which can also be caused by some skin irritation due to clothing.

    Below is and eye with eczema in the nasal corners taken with my slit lamp microscope. This is a totally painless procedure and only takes a few minutes. You will be able to see your own eye lids and tear drainage in good detail on a large computer screen whilst seated in our consulting room. Below you can see an image where I have instilled a yellow / green dye and imaged the area with a blue light for best contrast. It shows the tear overflow very well:

    What Causes Dry Flaky Eyelids

    how to get rid of eczema on eyelids naturally

    There are many causes for dry, flaky eyelids resulting from eyelid dermatitis. âEyelid dermatitis is when the skin of the eyelid and around the eyelid becomes dry, itchy, irritated, red, and swollen,â says Peredo. She notes that a skin condition, âsuch as eczema or environmental factors,â might be to blame. âAdditionally, dry air in the winter, temperature change, or humidity can also cause dry, flaky eyelids.â

    According to Green, people âwho have asthma, or hay fever, or eczema, have a propensity to develop eyelid dermatitis. If eyelid dermatitis continues, patch testing may be needed to see what specifically may be causing or exacerbating thisspecifically if it is being triggered by an allergen.â

    There are different types of eyelid dermatitis. The distinguishing factors are, as Green notes, distinct types of triggers. âThe most common form of eyelid dermatitis is contact dermatitis which includes allergic contact dermatitis and irritant dermatitis,â explains Peredo. She says some of the most common allergens that can cause eyelid dermatitis when they come in contact with the eyelids are fragrances, nail polish, metals found in jewelry or eyeshadows, or other cosmetic products. Seasonal allergies, explains Engelman, are also a common cause.

    Irritant eyelid dermatitis, according to Peredo, is a ânon-allergic reaction to the eyelid skin. Common culprits are soaps, detergents, and eye creams that may contain retinol

    Don’t Miss: Eczema Cream Starts With T

    What Does Eczema On The Eyelids Look Like

    Do you have an irresistible urge to scratch your eyes? It could be eczema.

    If your eyelids are red, swollen, at times oozing, and extremely itchy, then you have acute eczema. Sometimes the skin is simply dry and slightly red, but still itchy.

    Eczema or allergic conjunctivitis?

    It can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between eczema and allergic conjunctivitis: in the latter case, eyelids may be a bit swollen and itchy, but the eye is red.

    Eczema or psoriasis? Eczema patches are often thinner and their edges less defined compared to psoriasis. Click here for a summary of the major differences between eczema and psoriasis.

    So What Can You Do To Decrease The Discomfort

    First of all you should clean up the external parts of the eye lids, salty tears drying on the skin is going to irritate the skin and aggravate the eczema. Gently clean the skin surface with boiled cooled water using a cotton wool pad. Dont use anything abrasive as that will irritate the skin further and and increase the dermatitis caused by the eczema.

    Secondly you can safely use Double Base Flare Relief, Aveeno and Dermalex around the eyes. Perhaps you have already tried this on other areas around your body, if it works there, try it in small amounts around the eyes on the affected areas. However do make sure the above ointments do not leak or seep back into the eye as that is going to cause further eye irritation. Small amounts and often is better than larger amounts that can go astray.

    Further skin care and guidance on triggers for Eczema can be found on the web, this is advise from a Dermatologist.

    Recommended Reading: Can You Get Eczema On Your Head

    What Is The Treatment For Eyelid Contact Dermatitis

    It is important to avoid contact with irritants and known or potential allergens, to ensure that the skin is healthy and able to form a waterproof barrier.

    • Avoid rubbing and scratching.
    • Only touch eyelids with clean, rinsed hands.
    • Wash eyelids with plain water or use a cream cleanser designed for sensitive skin.
    • Avoid all contact with allergens detected by patch tests this is necessary life-long.
    • Avoid eyelid cosmetics while the dermatitis is active.
    • Wear protective wrap-round spectacles if exposed to cold, wind, dust particles etc. Spectacles can also make it easier to stop scratching and rubbing the eyelids.

    Short courses of mild topicalcorticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors may be required to treat active inflammation. Severe contact dermatitis of the eyelids is usually treated with a short course of oral corticosteroids.

    Eyelid dermatitis can be followed by postinflammatorypigmentation, one of the causes of dark circles under the eyes.

    Eliminate The Most Common Causes Of Eyelid Eczema In Your Personal Care Products To Heal The Skin:

    Science Source

    I have them wash their face with the VaniCream Cleansing Bar.

    I have them moisturize their entire skin â including face and hande â with my hypoallergenic Natural Face, Hand and Body Lotion.

    This allergen-elimination typically allows the eyelid skin to heal. We then wait and watch, trying to figure out what activity and exposure seems to trigger the rash.

    Recommended Reading: Is Acv Good For Eczema

    Eczema Your Eyes And The Covid

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, some doctors are noticing an increase in eczema around the face and eyes in their patients.

    One possible reason could be that with increased contact of numerous types of fabric to the skin, this population with increased incidence of contact dermatitis could be reacting to the mask materials, says Gerami Seitzman, MD, an ophthalmologist and the medical director of the Francis I. Proctor Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology at UCSF Health in California, who has observed this trend during the pandemic.

    Increased use of hand sanitizers and soaps can also worsen skin irritation, Dr. Seitzman adds.

    Lastly, in colder climates, parts of the skin exposed to cold, dry outdoor air can dry the skin of its natural moisture, so it is possible with the face covered, more of the inclement conditions affect the skin around the eyes, she says.

    See your doctor as soon as you notice any eczema eye complications, to prevent vision trouble.

    What Can Be The Common Culprits For Eyelid Eczema

    Makeup and Cosmetics: Women are obsessed with a makeup. The chemical compounds in cosmetics may irritate and initiate an irritant reaction of the eyelids. Few of the common sources from the eye makeup include:

    • Mascara
    • Eyelash curler
    • Kohl

    Makeup brushes and these applicators can be the main cause for eczema flare-ups. The bristles of the brushes can be made of synthetic materials or animal fur that can initiate an allergic reaction.

    Few of the cosmetics those possess metals like lead, nickel, cobalt, and chromium can cause the skin condition making it worse. These are mainly the allergic metals found in mascara, eyebrow pencils and more eye makeup products.

    Nails: Yes, not to forget that you are in a direct contact with the allergens through your nails. It can be seen that many people subconsciously touch their eyes throughout the day, bite their nails and this can turn out to be a major cause as well. Eyelid eczema result from simply rubbing or touching the eyes even if a reaction on the fingers, nails or hands are not present.

    Exposure to Chemicals: The use of chemical compounds can be found in approximately many daily needs products like cleaners, laundry, air fresheners, skin care products, perfumes, and more. These contain chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction when comes in a direct contact to your skin. The potential triggers like airborne chemicals may trigger your eyelids giving you eczema rashes. Most common chemical exposure include:

    • Soaps

    Read Also: How To Make My Eczema Stop Itching

    When To See A Doctor

    If home remedies prove ineffective or your eyelid dermatitis seems to begetting worse, then it is time to see your dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. “If eyelid dermatitis persists for a few days even after care is taken to remove potential allergens and soothe the affected area, it may be a good idea to see your dermatologist,” advises Engelman.

    Your dermatologist can prescribe a mild topical corticosteroid or a calcineurin inhibitor, according to Peredo.

    Green adds that if you are concerned you might have an infection, consult with your physician immediately. And if you are having a possible allergic reaction, it is time to consult with a dermatologist about getting a patch test, where your dermatologist can test for the most common allergens and see what is causing this condition.

    Atopic Dermatitis On The Eyelids The Causes Symptoms And How Best To Calm And Care For Skin

    How I Cured My Eczema (Face/Eyelids)?

    Atopic Dermatitis also known as Atopic Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterised by dry, flaky and itchy skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and can flare-up on the face.This article focuses on Atopic Dermatitis on and around the eyelids. It explains how to recognize if you or your child have it, looks at the possible causes and triggers and makes suggestions about how to care for atopic skin on a daily basis and soothe and calm it during flare-ups.

    How do I know if I have Atopic Dermatitis around my eyes?

    If the skin around your eyes is dry, red and itchy then you may have Atopic Dermatitis. Some people also experience a burning sensation. If you or your child already experience Atopic Dermatitis on other areas of your body then it is likely that the symptoms around your eyes are linked. Facial Atopic Dermatitis is especially common in babies and children but many adults have it too. You can find out more in Atopic Dermatitis and babies, Atopic Dermatitis and children and Atopic Dermatitis and adults.If you are in any doubt about your symptoms, consult your doctor who will be able to give you a full diagnosis and advice.If you or your child do not have Atopic Dermatitis, then there are several other types of Dermatitis that are also common in the eye area and which present very similar symptoms. These include:

    Also Check: Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream

    Also Check: Eczema At Base Of Scalp

    Does Eyelid Dermatitis Require A Doctors Visit

    If you notice that new soap or makeup seems to make your eyelids red or itchy, stop using it immediately and see if the irritation clears up. That could be all there is to it.

    Unfortunately, many cases are harder to resolve because the cause isnt so clear. If you think youre experiencing symptoms of eyelid dermatitis, contact an eye doctor for proper assessment and treatment.

    Anything that creates discomfort in your eyelids is going to make your life unpleasant, so its a good idea to set up an appointment if eyelid dermatitis, or any other condition, has started bothering you or affected your vision.

    Schedule an exam

    Treatment For Eye Complications Linked To Eczema

    There are many creams and ointments for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, ranging from over-the-counter preparations to prescription corticosteroid creams, Seitzman says.

    Never use any of these on the eye area without consulting a doctor, because, as research published in 2017 in the Journal of Current Glaucoma Practice suggests, the use of topical steroids may be associated with glaucoma, probably from the cream seeping into the eyes.

    In some cases, your doctor or dermatologist may recommend treatment by an ophthalmologist.

    Anytime inflamed eyes and eyelids are associated with decreased vision, an ophthalmologist should be brought in as part of the evaluation team, Seitzman says. When steroids are used around and in the eyes, it is very important for an ophthalmologist to follow along so that eye pressure can be monitored. Steroids can affect the eyes in several ways, and monitoring for these side effects requires specialized tools to measure and visualize eye health.

    Ultimately, while eczema of the skin around the eyes can be challenging to control, with proper treatment it can be managed and you can protect your vision.

    You May Like: How To Clear Eczema On Legs

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular