How to Combat Dry Skin Around the Eyes

Dry skin around eyes is a problem that can be quite bothersome. 

There are several ways to combat this issue and ensure your skin looks smooth, soft, and youthful. 

Let us explore useful tips for combatting dry skin around the eyes and when you need to see a skin care physician. 

What Causes Dry Skin Around the Eyes?

Multiple factors can cause dry skin around the eyes, including dehydration, lack of nutrients, environmental factors (like dust), sun damage, or certain skin conditions. Here are some details of what may be causing dry skin around the eyes and eyelids. 

Skin dehydration

The skin surrounding the eyes is particularly thin and sensitive compared to other areas of the body. This makes it more prone to flaking, redness, and irritation.

To stay smooth, supple, and maintain elasticity, the skin requires water and natural oils. If something in the body disrupts the supply of these oils and moisture, it can lead to extreme dehydration or dryness.

Here are some tips for keeping your eye area soft and smooth:

• Use a mild cleanser. Avoid using harsh cleansers or other products that can strip away natural oils. 
• Apply a moisturizer immediately after cleansing. A good moisturiser will help to lock in moisture and keep your skin from drying out.

• Use an eye cream or gel designed to treat dryness around the eyes. These products usually contain hydrating ingredients that will soothe and protect the delicate skin in this area. Some of these ingredients are:
  

1. Hyaluronic acid
2. Ceramides
3. Glycerine
   
4. Lactic acid

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated is key to keeping all areas of your skin healthy, including the sensitive skin around your eyes.
• Limit your time spent in front of screens (computers, TVs, etc.). The light emitted by devices can contribute to irritation and dry skin around eyes. Blue light is a high-energy visible (HEV) light that is present in natural sunlight and is also emitted by electronic screens. Research has shown that exposure to blue light can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to sleep disturbances, and can also cause eye strain, fatigue, and dryness. 
• Blinking rate is reduced  when looking at a screen. Blinking helps to lubricate and moisten the eyes, but when we stare at a screen, we tend to blink less frequently, which can lead to dryness and irritation. 

• Using creams and ointments with specific  active ingredients in your skincare routine can help relieve symptoms of dry skin around the eyes. Some of these helpful ingredients are:

  • Jojoba Oil
  • Dimethicone
  • Glycerin
  • Lactic Acid
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Lanolin
  • Petrolatum
  • Mineral Oil
  • Shea Butter

Conditions That Lead to Dry eyes (and eyelids)

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a condition in which the eyelids become inflamed. Blepharitis is characterized by redness, itching, and dryness around the eyes. 

You can also see scaly skin beneath your eyelids. Blepharitis is another possible cause of dry eyes. 

Nevertheless, dry eye syndrome, a condition in which the tear ducts do not generate adequate fluids, can cause blepharitis by inflaming the eye.

Eczema

Eczema is a group of skin disorders that affect several people across the globe. Eczema symptoms on the face are frequently accompanied by scaly, itchy, or dry skin around the eyes and eyelids. Eczema types that cause eye problems include:

• Atopic dermatitis: Adults with atopic dermatitis frequently suffer ocular symptoms such as itching, edema, and darker, thicker skin in the affected area.
• Seborrheic dermatitis affects the body’s oil-producing glands, including the corners of the eyelids (where the lashes grow).
• Contact dermatitis: occurs when an irritating or allergic material (such as a cosmetic product or hair color) comes into touch with the skin and creates a reaction that causes excessively dry skin.

Eczema has been linked to dry eye conditions, particularly when it affects the eyelids.

Those with eczema around their eyes can enhance their comfort by using eye drops to lubricate their eyes while regulating the growth of dermatitis.

Rosacea/ Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea is an inflammatory condition that impacts the skin around your eyes. It is a type of the larger skin illness rosacea that affects your entire face. It is also known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Ocular rosacea is a long-term (chronic) illness with no cure. Treatments and avoiding your triggers can help you manage it.

Lack of nutrients

The vitamins and minerals you ingest directly impact your skin’s health. Some micronutrient deficiencies might result in dry skin and other dermatological issues.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and improve tear production, which can alleviate dryness. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, as well as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy eyes and preventing dryness. It plays a key role in producing the mucus that protects the eyes and in maintaining the health of the cornea. Good sources of vitamin A include liver, sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and broccoli.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help prevent damage to the eyes caused by free radicals. It is also important for maintaining the health of the blood vessels in the eyes. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is another antioxidant that can help protect the eyes from damage. It is also important for maintaining the health of the tear glands. Good sources of vitamin E include nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.

When to See a Skincare physician?

If you have dry skin around your eyes, you may wonder when to see a doctor. You should see a doctor if other symptoms, such as itching, redness, or swelling, accompany the dryness. If the dryness is severe or does not respond to home treatment, you should also see a doctor.

Consult Dr. Shehla Ebrahim to combat dry skin around eyes and eyelids

Dr. Shehla Ebrahim is a skin care physician in Vancouver, BC. With cutting-edge anti-aging therapies and extensive expertise, Dr. Shehla Ebrahim has helped several patients with her comprehensive approach to skincare.

Book a quick online consultation!