Dry flaky skin under the eyes: what to know

The under-eye area has thin, sensitive skin. New eye creams, makeup, cleansers, sunscreen, lash products, nail products transferred by touch, or airborne irritants can trigger contact dermatitis. Rubbing from itch, allergies, or dry eyes can add scaling. [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) may affect the eyelids, while [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/) is another possible cause of recurring scale. Fine tight flakes without much redness may simply reflect [Dry Skin](/symptoms/dry-skin/).

Pause new eye products and avoid rubbing, scrubs, acids, retinoids, and fragranced creams near the eyes. Clean gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and use only a bland fragrance-free moisturiser that is labelled suitable for the eye area. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) gives general moisturising principles. Keep products out of the eye itself, and do not apply steroid or medicated creams near the eyelids unless a clinician has directed you.

Arrange an assessment if flaking lasts, returns after stopping products, or affects both eyelids with significant itch. Seek urgent care for eye pain, marked swelling, pus, light sensitivity, vision change, difficulty opening the eye, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty. Contact lens wearers should remove lenses if the eye is irritated and obtain advice.

Ask whether the eyelid skin suggests allergy, eczema, infection, or another cause; which cleanser and moisturiser are safe; and whether a product patch test or eye examination is needed.