Dry skin can occur anyplace in the body. This is especially true for dry skin around eyes , as it is softer and more delicate than the skin in other areas of the body.
The skin requires oils and water that it produces naturally to keep it smooth, soft, and elastic. If your body doesn’t receive the water or oils it needs, the skin may dry out.
Common symptoms include:
- patches of itchy, scaly, or itchy skin
- flaky skin
- rough skin
- The sensation of burning or stinging
- peeling
- Itching
Based on the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), some individuals have a greater chance of developing dry skin around eyes than other people for example:
- older than 40
- those who live in cold climates or cold climates
- Smokers
- people who suffer from deficiencies in minerals or vitamins that are, for instance, vitamin D or vitamin A, zinc, or iron
- with black, brown, or fair skin in contrast to a proper skin tone
In addition, certain medicines, like statins or diuretics, can cause excessive dry skin around eyes .
Treatment
It is normal to experience dry, flaky skin and generally worry about it.
To address dry skin, one could:
- Be sure to consume plenty of fluids
- moisturize regularly
- Beware of harsh skincare products
- Take care of hot, long-lasting baths and showers.
- Beware of artificial heat sources which dry out the air.
Eczema
Eczema is the term used to describe an assortment of skin disorders. This widespread condition affects more than 31 million persons across the United States.
Certain people may have eczema in their eyes. As per the National Eczema Society, eyelid eczema is more prevalent for those who have eczema in other places on their face.
The person might experience itchy or inflamed eyelid skin.
The following are the types of eczema that are:
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is one of the most frequent kinds of eczema. The AAD mentions that it can frequently cause eye problems in adulthood. It may develop on the eyelids and around the eyes and cause the skin to get itchy and swelling. The skin around the eyes can be thickened and darker.
Atopic dermatitis in the eye can lead to eye problems such as conjunctivitis and Keratitis. It is an inflammation of the cornea.
Treatment
If someone develops Atopic dermatitis in eyelids, they must seek out a doctor, particularly in the event of eyes problems that last for more than the span of a couple of days.
The treatment for atopic dermatitis consists of an effective skincare regimen that includes applying moisturizers and topical treatments, like corticosteroids and topical immunomodulators.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis
Seborrheic eyelid dermatitis tends to be confined to the region around the edges of the lids.
The type of eczema seen here develops in areas with a large number of glands that produce oil sebaceous glands.
Other common sites are:
- upper back
- nose
- scalp
Treatment
The National Eczema Society recommends cleaning the area with a mild cleanser each morning. Additionally, one must:
- moisturize daily
- manage stress levels
- Sleep well and get plenty of it
Sometimes, doctors will suggest an anti-fungal cream specifically designed for the purpose. In extreme circumstances, they may recommend a calcineurin inhibitor cream or steroid.
Contact dermatitis
The combination of allergens and irritants causes contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can develop on the eyelids if an allergen or irritant gets into contact with the skin. It can be caused by makeup products, skincare, or hair dye.
Sometimes, people may be irritated by something or someone they’re allergic to and after which they apply pressure to their eyes. This can transfer the irritant or allergen onto the eyelid.
Treatment
In many instances, the issue is resolved when the individual stops taking the medication, causing the reaction.
The skin of the eyelids can be approximately four times thinner than the skin that covers the rest of the face. This is why doctors recommend gentle creams and Emollients.
In the case of severe conditions, the doctor may recommend the use of creams that contain calcineurin or steroids.
If contact dermatitis recurs or is not resolved with treatment, the patient may require tests on the patches to determine what allergen or irritant is causing the problem.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis refers to an inflammation of the eyelid’s skin.
It typically occurs because the skin is irritated by bacteria living in the pores. It generally’s seen for people suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis. However, it can happen to anyone.
Some of the symptoms are:
- small, yellow scales circling the eyelids
- itchy eyes
- a “gritty” sensation in the eye
Treatment
To manage the problem to treat the condition, individuals can:
- Apply a warm compress to the eye.
- gently massage the eyelid gently
- Use over-the-counter artificial tears.
- Do not wear contact lenses for a while until the issue disappears.
Conjunctivitis
- Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, refers to swelling of the eye’s conjunctiva. This is the transparent external layer of the eye.
- Allergies, bacteria, as well as viruses, can trigger conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis caused by viral and bacteria are infections that can be contagious.
- Some of the symptoms are:
- Eyelids that have crusts
- eyes with a crusty appearance
- Red or pink in the white area of the eye.
- Production of excess tears
- pus or mucus discharges from the eye
- You are feeling like something is going on in your eyes.
Treatment
- Conjunctivitis can be treated at home using the use of a cold compress as well as artificial tears.
- There are times when people require medical care, like antibiotics and antiviral medicines.
Home remedies
- The patient can treat specific reasons for dry, irritated skin around the eye area at home.
- For tips, try applying cold or warm compresses to reduce itching and irritation and itchiness, and only use mild cleaners.
- Ointments and creams can be helpful to ease dry skin.
- By AAD, according to AAD The AAD, the components that can be beneficial are:
- Jojoba oil
- dimethicone
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Lactic acid
- Lanolin
- mineral oil
- petrolatum
- Shea butter
Prevention
- The best method for preventing dry, irritated skin around the eyes is based on the underlying cause.
- To avoid getting dry skin, people should:
- Make use of warm water instead of hot water to wash your clothes.
- Only use mild cleaners that are fragrance-free.
- Dry the skin instead of rubbing it
- Use a lot of moisturizing products.
- Be sure to avoid standing or sitting next to heat sources, such as fireplaces.
- Make sure you drink plenty of water.
- There isn’t a cure for eczema. However, individuals can reduce the risk of flare-ups through:
- managing their levels of stress
- getting plenty of rest
- Beware of products that can irritate the skin.
- They should avoid things they are intolerant to
- on the advice of their health care team
When should you contact the doctor?
- Anyone who is experiencing any of these symptoms should seek out a doctor.
- Sensitivity to light
- blurred vision
- If you suspect that you are suffering from eczema, consult an expert doctor as they may need medicated creams and anointments.
Summary
- Dry skin can occur everywhere on the body, including in the area around your eyes. It’s a common occurrence and is not generally a cause for concern. Sometimes, infections or eczema may cause it.
- One can address some reasons for dry eyes by using a home remedy. In other instances, one may need medical assistance. For example, people with eyes that hurt or have blurred vision.
- Additionally, if anyone thinks they might be suffering from a type of eczema or eczema, they should speak to an expert.