Eczema, a common skin condition characterized by inflammation, redness, and intense itching, can manifest in various parts of the body. One particularly delicate area where eczema often appears is around the eyes or on the eyelids. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of eye eczema, examining its causes, symptoms, and solutions and remedies that are safe and effective for us on the eyes. If you find yourself constantly battling the urge to scratch your eyes, read on to understand what could be behind it.

Eye Eczema Symptoms

Eczema around the eyes can present a range of symptoms, and understanding what it looks like is the first step in addressing this issue effectively.

Redness

The skin around the eyes may become inflamed and reddened.

Swelling

Eczema can lead to puffiness and swelling of the eyelids.

Itching

One of the hallmark signs of eczema is relentless itching.

Oozing

In more severe cases, eczema can cause the skin to ooze, leading to potential infection.

Inflammation

The affected area may become inflamed and irritated, leading to further discomfort.

Dryness

With eye eczema, the skin around the eyes may become excessively dry and flakey.

Eye Eczema or Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Eye eczema and allergic conjunctivitis can sometimes share similar symptoms, such as swollen and itchy eyelids. However, in the case of allergic conjunctivitis, the eye itself often becomes red, which can help differentiate the two conditions.

Make sure it’s definitely eye eczema that’s the problem, so you know you’re treating the right issue.

Eczema or Psoriasis?

Distinguishing between eczema and psoriasis can sometimes be challenging. Eczema patches are often thinner, with less defined edges compared to psoriasis. If you’re unsure about your condition, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist for a precise diagnosis.

ALLERGIC CAUSES OF EYE ECZEMA

Direct Contact

• Eye creams, especially those applied to the eye contour area
• Shampoo
• Hair dye
• Topical medicines, such as eye drops or eye ointments
• Personal care products and makeup removers

Contact via the Hands

• Nail polish
• Personal care products
• Skin care creams
• Medicated creams or ointments
• Metal objects, among others

Contact via a Third Party

Eczema can also be triggered indirectly through a third party. For instance, a parent who has  dyed their hair and then touches their child’s face may inadvertently cause the child to develop allergic eczema around the eyes. Or a parent with nail polish that causes an allergic reaction in their child’s skin.

Airborne Allergies

Airborne allergens can sometimes trigger eczema around the eyes. The delicate skin on the eyelids is especially vulnerable to this type of contact.

• Diffused fragrances
• Wood dust
• Certain plants
• Mould

Identifying the exact cause of the allergy can be a complex task. The allergic reaction may appear long after initial exposure or follow indirect contact through hands, air, or other means. Consulting a dermatologist specializing in dermato-allergology is advisable. They can guide your search and confirm any suspicions. The doctor may conduct allergy patch tests to identify the specific allergen responsible.

Remember that the allergic reaction is caused by an allergen, not the object or product itself. For example, with costume jewelry, the allergy is often to nickel.

It’s essential to differentiate atopic eczema from contact eczema, especially around the eyes. The primary distinction is the cause. Atopic eczema is not caused by allergies but rather by atopy, a genetic hypersensitivity to environmental factors. Atopic dermatitis can affect the eyelids, and it can sometimes be challenging to distinguish it from other conditions, including allergic conjunctivitis caused by airborne allergens like dust, animal hair, or pollen.

Eye Eczema on Black Skin

Eye eczema can look different on black skin to white skin, and eczema is more prevalent in those with African ancestry than European ancestry (19% of African Americans suffer from eczema, compared to 16% of European Americans).

While those with pale skin might have eczema that shows itself in a rash and dry patches that are pink in colour, on black skin it might appear as lesions that are a pale violet, grey, ashen, red-brown or very dark brown. Because of this difference, eczema in black people can often be confused with other conditions and may be misdiagnosed.

Eye eczema is also more likely to cause serious skin dryness and dark circles under the eyes in people with darker skin tones, rather than pink circles, so it’s important to prevent flare-ups and use products that soothe the skin and prevent pigmentary alterations.

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Prevention and Management Tips

Avoid Allergens

Identify and eliminate allergens from your daily routine to prevent eye eczema flare-ups. This includes products that come into direct contact with your eyes, contact through the hands, and allergens that may spread through the air.

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Emollients

For atopic eye eczema, “repair” the skin by applying emollients. Proper hydration is essential in managing atopic eczema. Use natural emollients like shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax rather than mineral oils and paraffin.

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Natural Remedies

Consider natural remedies like cold compresses, chamomile tea bags, or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin and alleviate itching. You can also use natural creams and emollients to help soothe and prevent eye eczema flare-ups.

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Our Favourite Creams for Eye Eczema

These are the three creams that without fail always get rid of my eczema flare-ups. They are all natural and organic, gentle and suitable for all ages (including newborns) and are reasonably priced. This select group of products are the only ones I trust to do the job, and I hope that one – or all – of them work for you too.

Manuka Honey Rescue Cream

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MooGoo MSM Cream

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Balmonds Skin Salvation

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