QuestionMy husband is having severe problems with dryness on his eyelids. He's tried eye moisturizers and has even applied neosporin several times a day and nothing is helping. It's dryest in the crease and it acutally looks like it's been cut with a knife. It's causing him a lot of discomfort and is very itchy. What do you recommend as far as a treatment? Is there any other topical cream that may help? Thank you so much for your time!
Sarah
AnswerDear Sarah,
There is actually a name for your husband's condition. It is called blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelids.
Blepharitis can be caused by staph infections, seborrhea, and eczema.
There are many things you can try at home. My first advice to anyone is to see your physician, especially when it comes to the eyes.
But there are some things your husband can try.
Try warm compresses. Wring out a washcloth in as hot of water as the eyes can stand. Or, try one of those rice or buckwheat heating packs. Remember, the skin on the eyelids is very thin and very sensitive, so take great care in the temperature. Better to be too cool, than to burn that delicate skin. Keep that on for five to ten minutes. You can do this twice to four times daily. After that, massage with gentle pressure for one minute.
After the compresses, do some lid scrubs. Use a lather of Neutrogena soap, or a 1:1 mixture of Johnson's baby shampoo with water. Be sure to rinse well, and pat dry with a clean towel.
Certain antibiotic creams may help, namely Erythromycin or Tobramycin. I have read that castor oil applied may help, but may also make it worse. You can apply that up to four times daily. It may initially make the situation worse, and then gradual improve, so I can't say if it will help or not.
I have read that antioxidants may also be very beneficial.
In any case, please check with your physician.
I hope this was of help to you. If it wasn't, please don't hesitate to let me know.
Best wishes,
Andrea
