Eyelid margin care explained simply: avoid eyelid margin inflammation
Eyelid margin care is often neglected, although it is the best way to prevent eyelid margin inflammation (blepharitis). In this article, you will learn why eyelid margin care is important and how to recognize and treat inflammation in good time. We have put together 6 effective methods for caring for and cleaning the eyelid margin.
What is eyelid margin care anyway?
Eyelid margin care refers to the careful cleaning and care of the eyelid margin, which is the area of the eye where the eyelashes grow. This practice is essential to maintain eye health and prevent eye problems. The eyelid margin plays an important role in the production and distribution of the tear film that keeps the eye moist and protected.
The eyelid margin is a narrow strip of skin that surrounds the eye and supports the eyelashes. It consists of various structures, including
- Meibomian glands: These tiny glands are located in the eyelids and produce an oily secretion that stabilizes the tear film and prevents the tear fluid from evaporating.
- Eyelashes: The hairs that grow along the edge of the eyelid help to keep foreign bodies away from the eye.
- Lid margin skin: The skin on the edge of the eyelid is particularly sensitive and susceptible to irritation and infection.
Why is eyelid margin care important – what are the risks of neglecting it?
People with sensitive eyes or easily irritated or dry skin at the edge of the eyelid should include eyelid edge care in their daily routine. This can help to avoid a number of problems. Among other things:
- Regular cleaning of the eyelid margin removes bacteria and debris that can cause infections such as blepharitis. Blepharitis is a common inflammation of the eyelid margin skin that leads to redness, swelling and itching.
- Eyelid margin care helps to reduce irritation and discomfort by removing excess oil, dirt and debris that can irritate the eyes.
- A healthy eyelid margin helps to stabilize the tear film, which in turn improves the quality of vision. A stable tear film is essential for clear vision and the well-being of the eyes.
6 Effective methods for eyelid margin care
1. regular cleaning
- Apply warm compresses: Place warm compresses on closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. This helps to open the meibomian glands and liquefy secretions. Use a clean cloth that has been soaked in warm water.
- Gentle cleansing: After applying the warm compresses, clean the edges of the eyelids with a cotton bud or a clean cloth. Use a mild cleansing solution or special eyelid edge cleansing products available from pharmacies.
2. eyelid margin massages
- Massage: Gently massage the edge of the eyelid to stimulate the meibomian glands and promote the drainage of oily secretions. Use your fingertips and apply light pressure to the eyelids, stroking from the base of the eyelashes towards the edge of the eyelid.
3. avoidance of irritants
- Cosmetic products: Be sure to use hypoallergenic and non-irritating eye makeup. Remove make-up thoroughly before going to bed to avoid blockage of the glands and irritation.
- Contact lens care: Keep your contact lenses clean and follow the recommended wearing and cleaning times. Avoid wearing contact lenses during acute eyelid margin inflammation.
4. adjustment of lifestyle
- Diet: A balanced diet with an adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids can support the health of the Meibomian glands. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oily fish, linseed and walnuts.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your eyes moist and promote overall health.
5. hygiene measures
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands regularly, especially before touching your eyes, to prevent the transmission of bacteria.
- Do not rub your eyes: Avoid rubbing your eyes as this can worsen the irritation and bring bacteria into your eyes.
6. regular check-ups at the ophthalmologist
- Routine examinations: Visit your ophthalmologist regularly to have the health of your eyes checked. If you have persistent or recurring symptoms of eyelid margin inflammation, a medical examination is particularly important.
- Treatment of underlying conditions: Have underlying conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis treated as these can exacerbate eyelid margin inflammation.
Recognize & effectively treat eyelid margin inflammation (blepharitis)
Eyelid margin inflammation, also known as blepharitis, is an inflammatory disease of the eyelids in which the eyelid margin is affected. This inflammation can cause considerable discomfort and is often chronic, meaning that it can recur repeatedly.
Causes of eyelid margin inflammation:
- Bacterial infections
- Staphylococci: These bacteria are a common cause of eyelid margin inflammation. They can colonize the skin of the eyelid margin and cause inflammation.
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Blockage of the glands: The meibomian glands at the edge of the eyelid produce an oily secretion that stabilizes the tear film. If these glands become blocked, this can lead to inflammation.
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Skin diseases: This skin condition can affect the edge of the eyelid and cause inflammation. It is characterized by oily, scaly skin.
- Rosacea
- Skin disease: This chronic skin disease, which often affects the face, can also affect the eyelids and the edge of the eyelids, which can lead to blepharitis.
- Allergies and irritants
- Cosmetics and environmental factors: Eye make-up, pollen, dust and other environmental factors can irritate the eyelids and cause inflammation.
Recognize eyelid margin inflammation: Symptoms of blepharitis
The symptoms of blepharitis can vary, but often include
- Redness and swelling of the eyelids
- Itching at the edge of the eyelid
- Burning or stinging in the eyes
- Dandruff or crust formation on the edge of the eyelid, especially after sleeping
- Watery eyes due to irritation
- Foreign body sensation in the eye
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Sticky eyelids in the morning
Treat eyelid margin inflammation effectively:
If blepharitis does occur, treatment usually consists of a mixture of self-care and medical treatment:
At home and without medical care, you can apply warm compressesto the edge of the eyelid.
These help to open the meibomian glands and allow the secretions to liquefy.
It is also advisable to regularly clean and care for the edge of the eyelid – you can use special cleaning agents or mild soaps to remove bacteria and scales.
Depending on the severity of the inflammation, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics, which can be applied either as drops or ointments.
Steroid eye drops can also help to reduce the inflammation.
If a skin condition such as rosacea or seborrhoeic dermatitis is causing the inflammation, you will be given appropriate medication to treat the underlying condition.