The Best Treatment for Eczema Around the Eyes

If you’ve ever suffered from eczema around the eyes, also known as eyelid dermatitis, you know how sore it can be. The skin in this area is particularly thin and sensitive, making it prone to irritation and inflammation. Symptoms like redness, itching, and swelling are not only uncomfortable but can also impact daily life and self-esteem.

What is Eyelid Dermatitis?

Eye eczema is a skin condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids and the surrounding skin. It affects the delicate area around the eyes, causing discomfort and visible symptoms. This condition can occur on both the upper and lower eyelids and sometimes extends to the skin near the eyes.

Eyelid eczema and dermatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting), and their severity varies from mild irritation to more severe symptoms that can interfere with daily activities. While they share similarities with eczema in other parts of the body, the thin skin around the eyes requires special care and treatment.

What are the types of eczema on the eyelids?

Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often affects people with a personal or family history of allergies. When this happens, it can cause:

• Dry, scaly, and itchy skin
• Redness and swelling
• Possible cracking or oozing in severe cases

Atopic eczema on the eyelids is often part of a more widespread eczema condition affecting other parts of the body.

Contact Dermatitis 

Contact eczema is an inflammatory response when the skin comes into contact with irritants or allergens. There are two subtypes:

1. Irritant contact dermatitis: Caused by direct contact with irritating substances like soaps, cosmetics, or environmental factors.
2. Allergic contact dermatitis: Results from an allergic reaction to substances such as eye makeup, eye drops, or even airborne allergens.

Symptoms of contact dermatitis on the eyelids include:

• Redness and swelling
• Itching or burning sensation
• Possible blistering in severe cases

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that primarily affects areas of the skin rich in sebaceous (oil) glands. This condition is shared across all age groups, often manifesting as cradle cap in babies and dandruff in adults.

The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis vary based on age and skin type. Common signs include:

• Flaky skin that’s yellowish or white
• Redness and inflammation
• Mild to moderate itching
• Crusty lesions in some cases

Causes of Eczema Around the Eyes

What causes eczema on the eyelids varies, and identifying the specific cause can be challenging, as it may result in a combination of genetic, environmental and social factors: 

• Genetic factors: A family history of atopic conditions like eczema, asthma, or hay fever.
• Environmental irritants: Exposure to harsh soaps, cosmetics, or airborne allergens.
• Allergic reactions: Contact with allergens, like certain metals, fragrances, or preservatives in skincare products.
• Stress: Emotional stress can exacerbate existing eczema or trigger new outbreaks.
• Climate: Extreme temperatures, low humidity, or sudden weather changes can affect your eyelid skin.
• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, either during pregnancy or menstruation.

If your symptoms persist or become much worse, you should consult a doctor or pharmacist to help identify the underlying cause. 

How long does eczema on the eyelids and around the eyes last? 

How long eczema can affect your eyes will vary widely from person to person. For some, it may be a temporary issue that resolves quickly, while for others, it can become a recurring problem.

In cases of acute eczema on eyelids, often caused by contact with an irritant or allergen, you might notice symptoms improving within just a few days to a couple of weeks, especially if you can identify and avoid the trigger.

Chronic conditions like atopic eczema may linger longer, sometimes lasting for weeks or even months. Many people experience cycles of flare-ups and periods of calm intermittently. It’s not uncommon for symptoms to return, particularly during stressful times or when you’re exposed to known triggers.

The good news is that with the right treatment and skincare routine, you can manage your symptoms effectively and potentially reduce the length of time it lasts. If you find that your eczema gets worse despite your efforts, contact your doctor or pharmacist. 

Can I prevent eczema around the eyes?

While it’s not always possible to completely prevent eczema around the eyes, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of flare-ups:

1. Identify and avoid causes and triggers: Pay attention to what might be causing your eczema. Do you notice it gets worse in different environments or when you use certain skincare products? 
2. Use gentle skincare products: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products specifically designed for sensitive skin.
3. Protect your skin: When you’re outdoors, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes and the surrounding skin from harsh weather conditions.
4. Keep your hands clean: Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands to prevent introducing irritants.
5. Manage stress: Since stress can trigger flare-ups, try stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.
6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
7. Use a humidifier: This can add moisture to the air, potentially helping to prevent dry skin around your eyes.
8. Be gentle when removing eye makeup: Use soft, non-abrasive wipes or cotton pads and avoid rubbing too hard.

The Best Treatments for Eczema Around the Eyes 

Emollients 

Emollients are moisturising treatments that help soothe and hydrate the skin. They’re often the first line of defence against eczema. Here are some popular emollients:

• Balneum: This emollient contains soya oil, which helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin.
• Cetraben: A gentle, non-greasy emollient that’s suitable for sensitive skin and helps to relieve itching.
• Diprobase: This fragrance-free emollient forms a protective layer on the skin, helping to prevent moisture loss.

Apply these emollients regularly, even when your skin isn’t flaring up, to maintain hydration and skin barrier. 

Topical Corticosteroids

For more severe eczema, your doctor might recommend topical corticosteroids. These help to reduce inflammation and relieve itching. Two common options for treatment for eye eczema are:

• Hydrocortisone: A mild steroid that can be effective for mild to moderate eczema. It’s also available over the counter in lower strengths.
• Fucidin H Cream: This combines a steroid (hydrocortisone) with an antibiotic (fusidic acid), making it useful for cases where there’s a risk of bacterial infection.
• Eumovate (clobetasone butyrate): A mid-potency steroid that is effective for reducing inflammation and is suitable for sensitive areas like the eyelids.

Always use topical steroids as directed by your doctor or pharmacist, especially around the delicate eye area.

Treat Eyelid Eczema with Our Online Eczema and Dermatitis Clinic

At Click2Pharmacy, our Online Eczema and Dermatitis Clinic offers a straightforward solution for managing eyelid eczema. Start by completing a quick online consultation, where you will provide details about your symptoms and medical history.

Once approved, our qualified prescribers will issue a prescription for effective treatments to help manage your condition. This way, you can access the care you need without the inconvenience of an in-person visit.

If you’re experiencing a flare-up or looking for effective ways to manage your eczema, our clinic is here to help. Visit our Online Eczema and Dermatitis Clinic today to take the next step toward managing your condition effectively.