Strategies for Moisturizing and Soothing Dehydrated Eyelid Skin
Got a case of scratchy, flaky peepers? Dry eyelids can be a total bummer, but we've got your back. Let's examine the culprits behind dry eyelids and how to tackle this pesky issue.
From rogue winters to skin conditions, a ton of factors can affect the thin, delicate skin on your lids. Dry air, rough weather, and even harsh heat can strip your skin of needed moisture. Living in a dry climate or shivering through a chillier season can zap the life right out of your skin. Run a humidifier to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated during these drying times.
Aging might seem like a win, but it's not all champagne and roses. As you catch up on years, your skin starts to produce less oil and you lose some essential sweat and oil glands. These help keep your skin naturally glowing and lubricated. So inevitably, your skin becomes drier. Moisturizing becomes even more important as you creep closer to the big 4-0.
Now, let's dive into the symptoms. Of course, flaking, peeling, itching, and redness are common signs of dry eyelids. But just because they're usual doesn't mean they're pleasant! Your eyes can feel uncomfortable, and you may even experience painful symptoms like burning or stinging.
So, what causes dry eyelids, and how do you treat them?
Skin conditions, such as contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, or blepharitis, can cause dry, irritated eyelids. Contact dermatitis is an irritating reaction that occurs when your skin comes into contact with something that doesn't agree with it, including certain body or makeup products. Atopic dermatitis, a common type of eczema, affects your skin, causing dryness, tenderness, redness, and, oh yeah, irritation. Blepharitis is an eyelid disorder that causes inflammation and can lead to redness, burning, and crusting.
Environmental factors also play a role in dry eyelids. Exposure to cold weather, wind, and air conditioning can lead to drying and irritated skin.
Home remedies often help mild cases. Moisturize, moisturize, and moisturize some more! Apply moisturizer regularly, once within 5 minutes of washing or bathing, and whenever your skin feels dry. Opt for fragrance-free products to avoid unnecessary added chemicals. A humidifier can also help keep moisture in the air.
Take it easy on those long, hot showers. Keep baths or showers short and sweet, and stick to a comfortable temperature to prevent your skin from drying out. If your eyes feel dry, itchy, or irritated, try a cold compress for relief. Keep your hands off your face to protect your skin from germs, and remember to use sunscreen to keep your skin healthy.
If home remedies don't cut it or if your symptoms worsen, it's time to consult a medical pro. A doctor or dermatologist can recommend prescription-strength treatments or determine if an underlying condition is responsible for the dryness.
Prescribing added moisture can help combat dry skin on the eyelids, particularly when combined with home remedies like regular application of fragrance-free moisturizers and the use of humidifiers. Scaling and peeling, along with itching and redness, are common symptoms of dry eyelids. Dermatology may be necessary if home remedies are ineffective or if symptoms worsen, as environmental factors such as cold weather and air conditioning, or skin conditions like contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, or blepharitis, can cause dry, irritated eyelids.
