Blepharitis or lid margin disease is common. Symptoms include irritation, itching, and, occasionally, a red eye. This condition frequently occurs in people who tend to have oily skin, dandruff, or dry eyes.

Bacteria normally reside on the skin, but in some people, they thrive in the skin at the base of the eyelashes. Nearby oil glands may be overactive, causing dandruff-like scales and particles to form along the lashes and eyelid margins, which can cause redness, stinging, or burning.

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Lid margin disease cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with a few simple, daily measures, such as the following:

  • At least once a day, place a warm, wet washcloth over your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. Rewet it as it cools, two or three times. This will soften and loosen scales and debris. More importantly, it helps liquefy the oily secretions from the eyelids’ oil glands.
  • With your finger covered with a thin, wet washcloth, cotton swab, or commercial lint-free pad, gently scrub the base of the lashes for about 15 seconds per lid.

When medications are necessary, they may include:

  • Artificial tears (over-the-counter eyedrops) to soothe dryness
  • Antibiotics (oral or topical) to decrease bacteria on the eyelids
  • Steroids (short-term) to decrease inflammation

Medications alone are not sufficient to control lid margin disease; the application of warmth and detailed cleansing of the lashes daily is the key. If you ever have questions or your symptoms change, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you stay comfortable and keep your eyes healthy.