What should you know about itchy eyes and eyelids?

Allergic conjunctivitis can itch the eye surface and make the lids puffy or watery. Eyelid skin can also react to cosmetics, cleansers, hair products, creams or airborne allergens. Dryness and inflammation along the eyelid edge may cause flakes or a burning, gritty feeling. Allergic rhinitis may be present at the same time, especially with sneezing or a blocked nose.

The eyelid appearance gives useful clues, but it cannot confirm the cause. One-sided marked swelling, crusting, tenderness or a painful lump may need an examination rather than more home products.

Stop any newly introduced eye makeup, creams or cleansers and avoid rubbing. Wash hands before touching the area, then use a cool clean compress on closed eyes. Keep the eyelid edge clean with plain water or a product recommended by a clinician; do not scrub or peel flakes away.

If contact lenses worsen discomfort, remove them and use glasses temporarily. Reduce dust and avoid known pet triggers when possible. A pharmacist can discuss Allergy Medication, but avoid steroid creams or eye products near the lids unless prescribed for that area.

Arrange a review if the irritation persists, repeatedly returns, or does not improve after stopping a suspected product. Get urgent care for severe pain, vision change, marked light sensitivity, injury, rapidly increasing swelling, fever, or swelling of the lips or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the problem is more consistent with an eye-surface allergy, eyelid dermatitis or eyelid-edge inflammation. Bring a list of products used near the eyes and ask which cleanser, drops or treatment is suitable for your skin.