Dry Scaly Eyelids

If you've ever dealt with dry, scaly eyelids, you know just how uncomfortable they can be. Occasionally the condition can also be unsightly, particularly if the thickened skin is difficult to conceal. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to deal with this issue. First, though, it's important to determine what actually causes the problem.

Dry eyelids are uncomfortable and unsightly.

It's not just the obvious dryness and scales that define this annoying condition. You may find yourself dealing with a number of other aggravating symptoms, too, including itchiness, discoloration of the skin, swelling and soreness. It's not a guarantee that you'll deal with all of these problems if your eyelids are dry, but depending on the cause you may find that your eye feels quite irritated.

There are a few different conditions that can cause dry eyelids. The most common is known as eyelid dermatitis, quite similar in appearance to atopic or contact dermatitis on other parts of the body. Eyelid dermatitis manifests itself as an allergic reaction to something that has direct contact with the eyelids. The reaction may be caused by any number of products, including:

• Cosmetics (foundation, eye shadow, eyeliner)
• Hair dye (the ingredient p-Phenylenediamine is usually to blame)
• Shampoo
• Cleansers
• Food
• Eyelash curlers (the nickel metal body and metallic grip can cause irritation)

Though some of these culprits may seem a bit surprising at first, they're actually not so unusual. It's not uncommon, for example, for an individual to eat something, neglect to wash his or her hands and touch the eyelids at some point. Shampoos and other cleansers that touch the face can easily irritate the eye area, as can cosmetics. Most of the substances that cause irritation to the eyelids are transferred by the hands, and since the skin in this area is so thin, it's important to exercise caution and avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands.

Atopic dermatitis, which may result from food or airborne allergens, and eborrheic dermatitis, which occurs when the skin reacts to its own natural oils and bacteria, are other potential causes.

In other cases, a condition known as blepharitis may be to blame. Defined as a chronic inflammation of the eyelids caused by excess bacteria, blepharitis causes a number of symptoms in addition to scales and dryness. If you experience a burning or gritty sensation in the eye, sensitivity to light, redness, swelling, blurred vision or crusting on the eyelashes, you may be suffering from blepharitis. Unfortunately, the condition is not curable, but the symptoms are treatable. It's crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible, because it can worsen if left untreated and cause serious injury to the eye itself.

When dry skin occurs anywhere else on the body, the first line of defense is usually moisture – and lots of it. Applying a hydrating lotion can make a big difference in the skin's condition, supplying it with the vital moisture it needs to renew and recuperate. However, the skin around the eyes is different. It's thin and delicate, and therefore it requires specialized treatments and care. This is why companies manufacture creams and gels formulated especially for the eye area. It's important to select a formula that is appropriate for your skin type – if you're particularly sensitive, for example, seek out a treatment that is formulated with healing, gentle ingredients.

If you are suffering from any form of dermatitis, the most important thing you can do is eliminate all contact with suspected allergens. Discontinue use of all cosmetics (including nail polish) and seek the advice of a dermatologist, who may recommend allergy tests to determine the problem. Occasionally a steroid ointment may be prescribed, but it is important to note that long term use of steroids on the eyelids may prove harmful over time, causing discoloration or atrophy. You may wish to find out if a non-steroidal treatment, such as Protopic, is appropriate for treating your condition.

As mentioned, blepharitis has no known treatment, but its symptoms can be kept under controlled. The first step is to use a warm compress over the eyelids and hold it in place for five to ten minutes for at least three or four times a day. This helps soften the scales on the lids and crusts on the lashes, making them easier to remove. Apply a touch of mild cleanser (such as Neutrogena unscented) to the compress and use it to gently cleanse the eyelids. Rinse with warm water and dab the skin dry.

It's easy to lose track of just how many times the hands come into contact with the eyes! Avoid potential problems by washing your hands frequently and avoiding the tendency to touch or rub the eyes or face. Additionally, don't neglect to remove all traces of makeup from the face before going to sleep!

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