Eczema is an inflammatory condition of the skin. It’s a chronic disorder that may be linked to hay fever or asthma. Eczema flare-ups occur periodically and then subside. The precise cause is ambiguous, and experts suggest that a combination of an inherited tendency for a sensitive skin and an anomalous immune mechanism may trigger the condition.
Eczema on the eyelid is most likely to develop due to a combination of a sensitive, dry skin and a malfunction in the immune mechanism. Stress aggravates dermatitis; but doesn’t cause it. It has also been postulated that there is a link between hay fever and asthma; however, the theory is being questioned.
Eyelid Eczema Symptoms
Eczema on eyelids manifests as:
- Red-brown color patches on the upper eyelid.
- Itching.
- Tiny, raised bumps, which may ooze and then crust over
- Raw, sensitive skin due to scratching.
- Redness and swelling around the eyes.
- Excessive scratching can damage the skin; and once the skin barrier is broken, infection can occur, particularly Staphylococcus aureus.
The symptoms of eczema worsen with the following:
- If the skin is excessively dry and is not moisturized.
- Very hot showers
- Sweating
- Sudden temperature changes.
- Stress
- Poor humidity
- Harsh skin care products.
- Dust or sand
- Cigarette smoke
- Certain foods, such as eggs, milk, fish, soy or wheat.
Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Eczema On Eyelids
- First and foremost you need to recognize and steer clear of the triggers which aggravate the condition.
- Keep the eyelids well moisturized. After a bath and after washing your face, use either cocoa butter or almond oil over the eyelids.
- Aloe Vera is also recommended; it helps allay the itching and discomfort, reduces the redness and keeps the skin lubricated.
- Do not scratch. Trim your nails and wear mittens at night.
- Apply cool, wet compresses over the eyes.
- Uncooked oatmeal is a very effective home remedy for eczema. Add the oatmeal to a bowl of water. Dip cotton swabs in the bowl and place over the eyes. Do this twice daily.
- Use only mild soaps and shampoos; keep away from dyes and perfumes.
- Use a humidifier. Dry, hot indoor air can dehydrate a sensitive skin and aggravate the itching and flaking. Importantly, ensure that the humidifier is clean in order to prevent a growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Make sure you have plenty of vitamin A foods – tomatoes, carrots, papayas, bell peppers and milk. Vitamin A is a ‘skin’ vitamin; and will help prevent exacerbation of eczema. Confer with a doctor to start a vitamin A supplement.
- Vitamin E is another effective element to manage eczema successfully. Opt for a vitamin E supplement or ensure that you have loads of nuts and seeds daily.
- Some experts state that a deficiency of the element sulfur in the body and in the diet worsens eczema. Make sure you have loads of garlic, onions and eggs in your daily menu. They are packed with sulfur and hence help ward off episodes of eczema.
- Chamomile helps battle flare-ups well too. Use the essential oil over the affected region (diluted with base oil) as well as have a cup of chamomile tea on a regular basis.
- Evening primrose oil and witch hazel extract have also been touted as effectual ways to deal with eczema well.