Itchy face and eyes

A new cleanser, cosmetic, sunscreen, detergent, or airborne allergen can irritate facial skin and the eye surface. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly presents with eye itching and watering, while allergic rhinitis may bring sneezing or nasal congestion. House dust mite and pet allergy are possible triggers. A rash that is scaly, sore, blistered, or limited to one contact area may need a different assessment.

Stop newly introduced face products and rinse the skin with lukewarm water. Use a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser on intact skin, avoid scratching, and place a cool compress over closed eyes. Wash hands before touching the eyes and avoid makeup or contact lenses until irritation settles. Change one product at a time when reintroducing items, so a trigger is easier to recognise. Ask a pharmacist about suitable allergy medication rather than applying skin creams near the eyes without advice.

Get urgent help for facial or eyelid swelling with breathing or swallowing difficulty, faintness, or swelling of the lips or tongue. Seek prompt assessment for eye pain, light sensitivity, vision change, rapidly spreading redness, blisters, or signs of infection. Arrange a routine review if the symptoms keep returning, disturb sleep, or do not improve after the suspected trigger is removed.

Ask whether the pattern suggests contact irritation, allergy, eczema, or an eye condition, and which products are safe around the eyes. Bring a list of new products and medicines, describe the timing of exposure, and mention nasal symptoms or previous reactions.