How to Treat Dry and Flaky Eyelids

Dry, flaky eyelids can be a sign of infection or inflammation that requires medical attention, but they can also arise as a reaction to certain skin and eye products or result from hormonal changes. Here are some things you can do to reduce your discomfort, along with guidelines for determining if you need to see a doctor.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid eye makeup remover
• Moisturizing eye cream
• Gauze pads and/or tea bags for cold compresses
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Baby shampoo
• Artificial tear drops
• Tear ointment or gel

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Instructions

• 1

  Identify the cause of the problem, if possible. This is especially important if your eyes are red, swollen, or itchy. Have you recently tried a new eye care or skin care product that could be causing a reaction? Have you fallen asleep while wearing eye makeup and/or contact lenses? Are you on any medication that might be causing your symptoms? If none of these appear possibilities, check out the Resources section for more ideas and make an appointment with your doctor to investigate further. However, the following steps may help soothe your eyes in the meantime.

• 2

  Be sure to remove all eye makeup completely before going to bed at night. Use a hypoallergenic liquid eye makeup remover and a cotton ball, and check your eyes for any leftover traces of mascara after you're done.

• 3

  Apply an artificial tear ointment or gel to your eyes before you go to sleep. Don't use drops for this purpose unless they are a thicker formula intended for overnight use.

• 4

  If you don't currently use an eye cream, find one that is made for dry, sensitive skin and apply morning and night. If you do use a cream now, consider trying a different, gentler brand.

• 5

  If your eyelids feel dry and flaky in the morning, mix equal parts of baby shampoo and cold water, dip a cotton swab or ball in the mixture, and dab gently over them to remove any residue and soothe the skin. Pat dry with a clean towel or another cotton ball. Do not rub.

• 6

  Apply cold compresses. Use either a gauze pad soaked in ice water or a used tea bag that you've kept in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Leave the compresses on for at least 2 minutes, but no longer than 20 minutes.

• 7

  Fight the urge to rub your eyes, no matter how much they are itching! Use artificial tear drops instead. If you wear contact lenses, be sure to use a brand that is preservative-free; some people react to the preservatives in these drops.

• 8

  Increase the amount of omega-3 oil in your diet by eating more fish and/or taking a supplement. The glands in your eyelids secrete oil that helps lubricate your eyes, and omega-3 oil will help them produce more of it. You should also reduce your caffeine intake and drink more water to keep yourself better hydrated.