Dealing with eczema on eyelids can be both uncomfortable, frustrating and annoying.
The skin around your eyes is delicate and sensitive, so flare-ups can be especially irritating.
You might be considering natural remedies for eczema on eyelids first to help clear and calm the eczema without the side effects of topical steroids.
Simple natural ingredients can help calm and soothe irritation to bring any relief.
You are not alone in this journey. I’ve had it all my life and and now as a Certified Nutritional Practitioner, I’m here to help you!
Understanding Eczema and Eyelid Dermatitis
It is important to know the different types of eczema that can affect eyelids.
So recognizing the symptoms and be aware of common triggers that might lead to flare-ups.
And don’t worry, just because you have eczema on your eyelids, doesn’t mean this is a full blown skin condition.
Types of Eczema Affecting Eyelids
Atopic dermatitis aka eczema, is a common form, usually linked with other allergic conditions like asthma or hay fever.
This is also known as the atopic triad, the common occurrence of eczema, asthma and allergies.
Eczema, can cause dry skin, inflamed and itchy rashes.
Another type of eczema is contact dermatitis happens when your skin reacts to irritants like makeup, harsh soap and fragrances.
There are differences, but all types might cause itching or irritation on your eyelids.
The most common and basic treatment options are usually some sort of steroid, topical or oral.
Are these prescription medications an effective treatment? Definitely not in the long run.
My rule of thumb as an Eczema Warrior and Certified Nutritional Practitioner, is look into your skincare routine first, then lifestyle changes and environment factors.
My goal and mission is to raise awareness around topical steroid withdrawal, TSW.
Symptoms of Eyelid Eczema
Eyelid eczema can be very noticeable. Your eyelids might look red or swollen. The skin right below your eyes can also be red, patchy and swollen.
They could feel tight, itchy or dry to the touch.
If you rub your eyes, it will probably make it worse.
In some cases, small blisters may form and ooze fluid, which we do not want!
It’s hard but remember to avoid scratching because we want to minimize skin infections.
Common symptoms include: red, itchy, sensitive and dry skin
Avoiding and Managing Triggers
When dealing with eczema on your eyelids, it’s important to know what can make it worse.
Finding and staying away from irritants helps your skin a lot.
At the same time, reducing stress is key to keeping your eczema under control.
Identifying and Eliminating Irritants
Eyelid eczema can get worse if you come in contact with certain irritants.
Makeup, soaps, laundry detergent and even some skincare products might be too harsh and result in an allergic reaction.
It’s a good idea to choose items that are labeled as fragrance-free or hypoallergenic.
Wearing gloves while cleaning can also help.
Allergies can play a big role, too.
If you have asthma or hay fever, they might be linked to your eczema.
Keep track of when you have flare-ups. A journal or an app can help track patterns.
Stress Management for Eczema Control
We all know stress can make things symptoms worse. It can lead to more itchiness and rashes while delaying healing.
Finding ways to calm your mind is important.
Try out deep breathing exercises or meditation.
My favourite is dead sea salt baths!
Taking time for yourself, even just a few minutes a day, can help with stress.
Controlling stress isn’t just about feeling better.
It can also reduce eczema flare-ups, improving your overall skin health.
*This post contains affiliate links. This means, at no additional cost to you, if you purchase the product, I will receive a commission. These commissions help pay for website hosting, keeping it ad-free and to spread the word on clearing eczema!
Two Natural Remedies for Eczema on Eyelids
When dealing with eczema on the eyelids, natural treatments can help soothe and heal the skin.
Some effective ingredients include coconut oil, aloe vera, and honey.
They have unique benefits like repairing the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.
Castor Oil for Skin Barrier Repair
Castor oil is a popular choice and one of my personal favourites. I use it almost daily on my face.
It’s full of healthy fats that moisturize and protect the skin.
When you apply castor oil to your eyelids, it helps repair and moisturize the skin.
This then leads to reducing dryness, redness and irritations.
Castor oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can calm the redness and swelling often seen with eczema.
Use a small amount and gently massage it onto your eyelids for the best results.
1. The Heritage Store – Castor Oil
Aloe Vera’s Anti-inflammatory Properties
Aloe vera is very well-known for its soothing and cooling qualities.
The gel from this plant is loaded with vitamins and natural compounds that reduce inflammation.
Applying aloe vera gel to your eyelids can significantly help with eczema by calming irritation and redness.
It’s gentle and can also help keep the skin hydrated, which is important for reducing eczema flare-ups.
To use, simply apply a thin layer of the gel directly to the affected area.
Make sure to use pure and organic aloe vera gel when possible.
2. Fruit of the Earth Moisturizer Gel
Two Home Natural Remedies for Eczema on Eyelids
Dealing with eczema on your eyelids is annoying because of the sensitive skin in that area.
So let’s explore some easy home remedies to manage symptoms like dryness, itching, and redness.
Cold Compress for Instant Relief
Applying a cold compress can help soothe itchy skin and inflamed eyelids.
To make a compress, just soak a clean hand towel in cold water, wring it out, and place it over your eyes.
Leave it on for about 5 to 10 minutes.
The cold temperature can help reduce swelling and calm the irritated and itchy skin.
If your skin feels dry after the compress, apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture and increase comfort.
Hydration and Moisturization Techniques
Keeping your eyelids hydrated and well-moisturized is key to managing your eyelid eczema.
Choose for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizers that are safe for sensitive skin around the eyes.
Apply a small amount after cleansing your face, ideally twice a day.
Dryness can worsen itching and irritation, so including more hydration in your routine can protect your skin.
I’ll link my favourite cleanser and top 3 products I believe will help keep your eyelid eczema away.
Province Apothecary Face Cleanser
Discount Code: EverythingEczema15
Province Apothecary’s Face Cleanser is high in antioxidants and vitamins A, E and omega-3 keeping your face and eyelids well hydrated. It’s main ingredients are:
Avocado Oil: A rich, viscous carrier oil that deeply penetrates the skin to fight dryness, dullness and dehydration and Raspberry Seed Oil: Very high in linoleic acid, a fatty acid found to be lacking in the sebum of acneic skin, the oil also works to smooth and replenish the skin’s moisture barrier.
Two Creams to Try
3. Ora’s Amazing Herbal Calendula Salve
Calendula is one of my favourite ingredients. I’ve written various blog posts around the use of this gentle and powerful herb.
Ora’s Amazing Herbal is Cortisone free, Chemical Free, Fragrance free, paraben free, petrolatum free, synthetic free, gluten free and cruelty free.
Always patch test on a clean area before trying on the actual affected eczema areas.
Shoosha is another one of my favourite brands because they are truly organic.
Even though it is marketed for babies, it’s an all ages type of products. It’s made with Organic Colloidal Oatmeal and potent herbal extracts, with calming oils and nurturing butters to help inflammation and dryness.
This balm is free of synthetic fragrances, pesticide residues, or chemical preservatives, avoiding further exacerbation of eczema symptoms.
Fighting Inflammation with Diet
A healthy nutrition will also boost your immune system and help decrease inflammation.
Try eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like organic wild caught fish, handful of nuts & seeds or avocados.
All these have anti-inflammatory powers that can help you reduce and manage eczema symptoms overall.
Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables, too, as they are loaded with vitamins and minerals that promote skin health.
The last piece of advice is to limit processed foods and sugar which can make a difference in reducing flare-ups.
Check out my FREE Guide on 5 Sneaky Sources of Sugar!
Integrating Natural Remedies into Daily Routine
Incorporating natural remedies to your skincare routine can help manage eczema on your eyelids and improve your overall skin health.
Switching to cleaner, organic and simple ingredient based products, lifestyle, and habits will support your skin’s healing process.
Creating a Skin-Care Routine
First, choose gentle, fragrance-free and gentle products that won’t irritate your sensitive eyelid skin.
Look for creams or ointments with ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or calendula. Check out the ones I suggested above!
These natural options can soothe dry skin and reduce eczema symptoms.
It’s important to get into the routine of applying your chosen cream daily, preferably in the morning and before going to bed.
Doing this make sures that your skin remains hydrated, reducing the chances of flare-ups.
Track how your skin responds. This way, you’ll know which remedies work best and can adjust your plan as needed.
Blink to Better Health
When you’re proactive in treating eczema early on, you can prevent more serious issues and avoid long term medication side effects.
By being aware of the symptoms and jumping into preventive measures, you can stay ahead of eyelid eczema and keep your skin happy and healthy.
Remember, you’re not alone. I’ve been there and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Work with your Healthcare Professional to get it under control before it turns into something more severe.
I’ve had eczema most of my life and found a way to clear it and manage my flare ups.
It would be honour to help you clear your skin while I support and guide you as a Certified Nutritional Practitioner.