What causes eczema on baby eyelids. How to identify symptoms of eyelid eczema in infants. What are the best treatment options for baby eyelid eczema. How to manage and prevent flare-ups of eczema on baby eyelids. What role do environmental factors play in infant eyelid eczema. How does baby eyelid eczema progress over time. What are the long-term implications of eyelid eczema in babies.

Understanding Baby Eyelid Eczema: Causes and Risk Factors

Baby eyelid eczema, a specific manifestation of atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects many infants. While the exact cause remains elusive, researchers believe it stems from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Infants with a family history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma are more likely to develop this condition.

The immune system plays a crucial role in the development of baby eyelid eczema. A dysfunction in the immune response can lead to a compromised skin barrier, making it difficult for the skin to retain moisture. This results in the characteristic dry, itchy, and inflamed skin associated with eczema.

Environmental Factors Influencing Baby Eyelid Eczema

Environmental factors can significantly impact the development and severity of baby eyelid eczema. Recent studies have highlighted several potential risk factors:

• Maternal stress during pregnancy
• Air pollutants (carbon monoxide, ammonia, formaldehyde, lead, particulate matter, and ozone)
• Climate conditions (hot and sunny weather may have a protective effect)
• Racial differences (higher prevalence among Black children in the United States)

Can climate affect baby eyelid eczema? Interestingly, some research suggests that a hot and sunny climate combined with high levels of particulate matter and ozone may actually protect against eczema development. However, more studies are needed to fully understand this complex relationship.

Recognizing Symptoms of Baby Eyelid Eczema

Identifying baby eyelid eczema early is crucial for effective management. The condition manifests with distinct symptoms that parents should be aware of:

• Dry, itchy, and scaly skin around the eyelids
• Small bumps that may ooze or weep fluid
• Thickened skin in the affected area
• Discoloration and swelling of the eyelids
• Darkened skin on the eyelids and around the eyes

Is baby eyelid eczema different from other types of infant eczema? While the underlying mechanisms are similar, eyelid eczema can be particularly challenging due to the delicate nature of the skin around the eyes. It’s important to note that eczema symptoms can vary between individuals and may change as the child grows.

The Progression of Baby Eyelid Eczema

Understanding how baby eyelid eczema progresses can help parents and healthcare providers manage the condition more effectively. The progression typically follows a pattern:

1. Early infancy (0-6 months): Eczema often appears on the cheeks, forehead, and scalp, including the eyelids. The skin may look more irritated and “weepy” at this stage.
2. Crawling stage (6-12 months): As babies become more mobile, eczema can spread to other areas like elbows and knees.
3. Toddler years (2+): Eczema may begin to affect the insides of the elbows, behind the knees, and around the mouth and eyelids. The skin tends to become drier, scalier, and thicker (a process known as lichenification).

How does baby eyelid eczema change over time? As children grow, the presentation of eyelid eczema may evolve. While some infants may experience improvement or resolution of symptoms, others may continue to have flare-ups throughout childhood and even into adulthood.

Triggers and Exacerbating Factors of Baby Eyelid Eczema

Identifying and managing triggers is crucial in controlling baby eyelid eczema. Common triggers include:

• Allergens: Pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites
• Food allergies: Particularly peanuts, soy, and eggs
• Irritants: Wool or synthetic fibers, cigarette smoke, scented products
• Environmental factors: Excessive heat or dryness, dry winter air
• Skin infections
• Sweating
• Stress

Can drool exacerbate baby eyelid eczema? While drool is more commonly associated with eczema on the cheeks, chin, and neck, it can potentially irritate the eyelids if it comes into contact with the area. Keeping the face clean and dry can help minimize this risk.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Baby Eyelid Eczema

While there’s no cure for baby eyelid eczema, various treatment strategies can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups:

Moisturizing and Skincare

Proper skincare is the foundation of eczema management:

• Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers specifically formulated for sensitive skin
• Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in hydration
• Consider using an occlusive ointment at night to prevent moisture loss

Bathing Practices

Appropriate bathing can help manage baby eyelid eczema:

• Use lukewarm water instead of hot water
• Limit bath time to 5-10 minutes
• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
• Pat the skin dry gently, avoiding rubbing

Topical Medications

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend topical medications:

• Mild corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors for sensitive areas like the eyelids
• Antibiotic creams if there’s a secondary bacterial infection

Are topical steroids safe for baby eyelid eczema? While topical steroids can be effective, they should be used cautiously around the eyes and only under medical supervision. Long-term use can potentially lead to skin thinning and other side effects.

Managing and Preventing Flare-Ups of Baby Eyelid Eczema

Preventing flare-ups is key to managing baby eyelid eczema effectively. Consider the following strategies:

• Identify and avoid triggers specific to your baby
• Maintain a consistent skincare routine
• Use protective measures like mittens to prevent scratching
• Keep the baby’s environment cool and humid
• Choose soft, breathable fabrics for clothing and bedding
• Consider using a humidifier in dry environments

How can parents prevent scratching in babies with eyelid eczema? Keeping your baby’s nails short and using soft mittens, especially during sleep, can help minimize scratching. Additionally, providing distractions and comfort during itchy episodes can be beneficial.

The Role of Diet in Baby Eyelid Eczema Management

While the relationship between diet and eczema is complex, certain dietary considerations may help manage baby eyelid eczema:

Breastfeeding and Formula Choices

Breast milk contains immune-boosting properties that may help protect against eczema. For formula-fed babies, hypoallergenic formulas may be beneficial if there’s a suspected milk allergy.

Introducing Solid Foods

When introducing solid foods, be mindful of potential allergens:

• Introduce new foods one at a time to identify potential triggers
• Consider delaying the introduction of common allergens if advised by your pediatrician
• Keep a food diary to track any correlations between diet and eczema flare-ups

Can certain foods worsen baby eyelid eczema? While food allergies can exacerbate eczema in some babies, it’s important to note that not all infants with eczema have food allergies. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.

Long-Term Outlook and Complications of Baby Eyelid Eczema

Understanding the long-term implications of baby eyelid eczema is crucial for parents and healthcare providers:

Prognosis

Many children outgrow eczema by adolescence, but some may continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Early and consistent management can improve the long-term outlook.

Potential Complications

• Skin infections due to scratching
• Sleep disturbances from itching
• Emotional and social impacts as the child grows older
• Increased risk of developing other atopic conditions like asthma or hay fever

What are the psychological impacts of baby eyelid eczema? As children grow, visible eczema can potentially affect self-esteem and social interactions. Providing emotional support and educating others about the condition can help mitigate these impacts.

Innovative Treatments and Future Directions in Baby Eyelid Eczema Care

Research into eczema treatment is ongoing, with several promising developments:

Microbiome-Based Therapies

Scientists are exploring the role of the skin microbiome in eczema, with potential for probiotic treatments that could help balance the skin’s bacterial ecosystem.

Biologics

While primarily used in adults, certain biologic drugs are showing promise in treating severe cases of eczema in children. These medications target specific components of the immune system involved in eczema.

Gene Therapy

As our understanding of the genetic factors contributing to eczema improves, gene therapy could potentially offer more targeted treatments in the future.

What new treatments are on the horizon for baby eyelid eczema? While many of these innovative treatments are still in the research phase, they offer hope for more effective and personalized approaches to managing baby eyelid eczema in the future.

In conclusion, managing baby eyelid eczema requires a multifaceted approach, combining proper skincare, trigger avoidance, and appropriate medical treatments. While the condition can be challenging, with proper care and management, many infants experience significant improvement over time. As research continues to advance our understanding of eczema, we can look forward to even more effective treatments and management strategies in the future.

Baby or Infant Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

What Causes Eczema in Children?

Researchers don’t know exactly what causes baby eczema, but they believe it’s most likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Eczema is not contagious.

Infants are more likely to develop eczema if family members have a history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma.

While these conditions don’t cause one another, infants are more likely to develop hay fever or asthma if they already have baby eczema.

Scientists believe eczema results from an immune-system dysfunction that affects the skin barrier and its ability to hold in moisture.

Eczema is a general term to describe a number of inflammatory skin conditions. Aside from atopic dermatitis, other types of eczema that commonly affect children include contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema (foot-and-hand eczema), and seborrheic dermatitis, or scalp eczema (known as cradle cap in infants).

Baby Eczema Risk Factors and the Environment

While baby eczema is the result of immune-system dysfunction, likely from a genetic predisposition, studies have found a number of risk factors.

For example, one study suggested that children have a higher risk of developing eczema if their mothers experienced high-stress situations during pregnancy.

There also appear to be racial differences in atopic dermatitis risk, with Black children in the United States more likely to develop the condition than white children.

The outdoor environment — specifically air pollutants and meteorological conditions — may also have an impact on eczema risk in children. One study concluded that high levels of carbon monoxide, ammonia, formaldehyde, lead, particulate matter, and ozone levels may all affect the development of infantile eczema.

Other research, though, suggested that a hot and sunny climate combined with high particulate matter and ozone levels actually appears to protect against eczema.

Baby Eczema and Cradle Cap Symptoms

Baby eczema causes symptoms such as a rash that makes the skin dry, itchy, and scaly. The rash can also have small bumps, which may ooze or weep fluid. Other symptoms may include:

• Thickened skin
• Discoloration and swelling
• Darkened skin on the eyelids and around the eyes
• Changes to the skin around the mouth, eyes, or ears

Cradle cap causes symptoms not commonly seen in other types of infantile eczema, such as greasy yellow scales on the scalp that sometimes appear in a thick layer covering the entire top of the head. Over time, the scales become flaky and rub off.

Most babies do not appear to be bothered by cradle cap, though it sometimes itches.

A baby with atopic dermatitis has an increased risk of other atopic (allergic) conditions, including asthma, hay fever, and food allergies.

Progression of Eczema in Infants and Children

Baby eczema is most prominent on the cheeks, forehead, and scalp of an infant within the first few months of life, and often tends to make the skin look more irritated and “weepy” than at other ages.

The eczema can appear on other parts of the body as well, including the diaper area.

When the infant begins to crawl, usually between 6 and 12 months, eczema will typically affect the elbows and knees, which rub on the ground. The eczema rash can become infected, resulting in a yellowish crust or tiny bumps of pus.

When the child is around age 2, eczema may begin to appear on the insides of the elbows and behind the knees, as well as on the wrists, ankles, and hands. It may also appear around the mouth and eyelids.

This eczema tends to be drier, scalier, and thicker (known as lichenification).

What Are the Triggers of Eczema Symptoms?

More on Managing Eczema Symptoms

How Reducing Indoor Allergens Can Ease Your Eczema Symptoms

Eczema usually isn’t a persistent condition, but rather one marked by long symptom-free periods followed by flare-ups.

Various environmental factors may cause the immune system to respond as if the body has encountered a harmful substance, resulting in inflammation and worsening eczema symptoms.

These triggers may include a variety of allergens and irritants, such as:

• Pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites
• Allergenic foods (such as peanuts, soy, and eggs)
• Clothing made of wool or synthetic fibers
• Cigarette smoke
• Scented products, such as laundry detergents, perfume, and air fresheners, especially ones that contain alcohol
• Excessive heat or dryness
• Dry winter air with little moisture
• Skin infections
• Sweating
• Stress

Additionally, drool can irritate a baby’s cheeks, chin, and neck.

Treatment for Baby Eczema

There’s no cure for baby eczema, but the condition usually becomes less severe over time.

Treatment focuses on managing skin dryness to prevent flare-ups and on reducing skin inflammation.

Doctors recommend the following strategies to parents whose babies have eczema:

• Avoid giving your baby long hot baths (use cool or lukewarm water instead) or rubbing your baby’s skin too much, especially with rough washcloths, loofahs, or towels.
• Consider twice-weekly diluted-bleach baths, which can help babies older than three months whose eczema gets infected frequently; discuss with your doctor.
• Moisturize your baby’s skin frequently with fragrance- and dye-free ointments, creams, and lotions, especially right after a bath.
• Dress your baby in soft cotton clothing that “breathes.”
• Avoid using scented products.
• Keep your baby’s fingernails short to prevent scratching, which can damage the skin and lead to further inflammation and infection.
• Remove irritants and known allergens from the household as much as possible.
• Keep your baby cool to avoid excessive sweating, possibly by using cool compresses (a wet, cool washcloth), especially on irritated areas.
• Consider using mittens on your small child’s hands if you need to leave the child alone for a short period of time, such as when you’re using the bathroom. This will help prevent the child from scratching their skin when you are out of sight.

Your doctor may also recommend other eczema treatments for your child, including:

• Topical corticosteroids
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal drugs for skin infections
• Oral medication that suppresses the immune system
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors, which are nonsteroidal drugs that control inflammation

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

• Silverberg J, Simpson E. Associations of Childhood Eczema Severity: A U.S. Population Based Study.  Dermatitis. May–June 2014.
• Skin Conditions by the Numbers. American Academy of Dermatology Association.
• Understanding Your Child’s Eczema. National Eczema Association.
• Chan CW, Law BMH, Liu YH, et al. The Association Between Maternal Stress and Childhood Eczema: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. February 2018.
• Brunner PM, Guttman-Yassky E. Racial Differences in Atopic Dermatitis. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. November 19, 2018.
• Belugina IN, Yagovdik NZ, Belugina OS, Belugin SN. Outdoor Environment, Ozone, Radionuclide-Associated Aerosols and Incidences of Infantile Eczema in Minsk, Belarus. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. May 6, 2018.
• Kathuria P, Silverberg JI. Association of Pollution and Climate With Atopic Eczema in U.S. Children. Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. February 4, 2016.
• Rueter K, Jones AP, Siafarikas A, et al. Direct Infant UV Light Exposure Is Associated with Eczema and Immune Development. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. March 2019.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: Signs and Symptoms. American Academy of Dermatology Association.
• Atopic Dermatitis in Children. University of Rochester Medical Center.
• Atopic Dermatitis in Children. National Eczema Association.
• Eczema. KidsHealth. June 2015.
• Atopic Dermatitis: Self-Care. American Academy of Dermatology Association.
• 8 Survival Tips for Caring for an Eczema Baby. National Eczema Association.
• Lyons J, Milner JD, Stone KD. Atopic Dermatitis in Children: Clinical Features, Pathophysiology and Treatment. Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America. February 2015.
• Ask Dr. Sears.
• Geddes JK. Caring for Newborn Skin. What to Expect. March 11, 2021.

Show Less

The Latest in Eczema

Is Atopic Dermatitis Interfering With Your Body Image?

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) flares can take their toll on your body image and self-esteem. Take this quiz to see if your skin condition is interfering …

By Jen LaskeyApril 10, 2023

Are Your Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms Under Control?

Take this quiz to find out if your eczema (atopic dermatitis) symptoms — dry skin, itchy skin, red to brownish-grey patches — are under control or whether…

By Erica PatinoApril 10, 2023

What Is Scalp Eczema? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More

Scalp eczema is a type of eczema that causes inflamed, itchy, dry skin to form on the scalp. The most common type of scalp eczema is known as seborrheic…

By Joseph Bennington-CastroApril 3, 2023

Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors of Eczema

The exact cause is unknown, but these risk factors could lead to eczema or atopic dermatitis. Here’s what you need to know.

By Joseph Bennington-CastroApril 1, 2023

What Is Perioral Dermatitis? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Perioral dermatitis refers to irritation that occurs around the mouth. In this guide, learn about signs and risk factors for the skin rash, as well as…

By Ashley WelchMarch 9, 2023

Facial Eczema | About and Treatments

Facial eczema

Jump to:

Introduction

Atopic eczema

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis

Light sensitive eczema

Treatment of facial eczema

Introduction

Eczema often affects the face, and facial eczema can be particularly distressing because it is so visible. In addition, facial skin is very sensitive, and even the mildest degree of inflammation can feel sore, itchy and uncomfortable. For some individuals, facial eczema is a short-lived problem, lasting only a week or two. For others, it may be more long-standing, with a negative impact on quality of life. Like eczema on other areas of the body, affected skin is red or darker than a person’s normal skin colour, depending on skin tone; dry and flaky; and sometimes weepy, crusty, or blistered. In skin of colour, areas affected by eczema can become darker as skin pigmentation is affected by inflammation, and then, as eczema resolves, the skin can become lighter. If the skin around and under the eyes is repeatedly rubbed, it can take on a temporary wrinkled appearance. In people with atopic eczema, permanent folds under the eyes can be seen. These are genetic and are known as ‘Dennie-Morgan folds’.

Facial eczema may occur in isolation or as part of a generalised eczema. Often there is no identifiable cause, especially when there is a history of atopic eczema or chronic eczema affecting other body areas. Sometimes, contact dermatitis, a type of eczema caused by contact with an external irritant or allergen, can be the cause of facial eczema. This can occur in anyone, even in people with no history of eczema, and can be caused by a variety of substances. These include facial products, airborne allergens at home and at work, and even nail products (varnish and gel nails). If allergy is suspected, a referral to a dermatologist for patch testing is often required, as it is not always possible to tell if someone has an allergic facial eczema by appearance alone.

Atopic eczema

This is the most common form of eczema in childhood. The cheeks are one of the first parts of the body to be affected by infantile eczema, and this usually occurs within the first few months of life. When a baby starts weaning, eczema is common around the mouth. After a year, eczema typically spreads to other areas, such as the arm and leg folds. Affected skin is red or darker than the child’s normal skin colour, depending on skin tone; dry, flaky and itchy; and at times may become weepy and crusty or blistered. Weeping and crusting can be a sign of a bacterial infection. In babies under one year, facial eczema is very common around the neck folds and cheeks, but eyelid involvement is rare. In older children, the whole face and eyelids can be affected, especially if the child also has hay fever. All children who have had eczema will be left with sensitive skin, and eczema can return at any age. Adults with atopic eczema often have facial involvement, which can be a persistent area of eczema, and often related to contact dermatitis.

Hyperpigmentation on face due to atopic eczema. This image is used with the permission of DermNet New Zealand, www.dermnetnz.org

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Probably the most common form of facial eczema in adults, this condition is often mild, appearing simply as dry, scaly skin around the creases of the ears and eyebrows. However, some people suffer from considerable irritation and soreness, especially when the eyelids or ear canals are involved.

Dandruff is an example of mild seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp. Like seborrhoeic dermatitis elsewhere, it tends to be a long-term complaint, which can improve with treatment, but cannot be permanently cured.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis may also occur on other parts of the body including the scalp and upper chest. Affected areas tend to be those with high levels of skin grease (sebum). This encourages overgrowth of a skin yeast called Malassezia, which appears to trigger an inflammatory reaction in people who have become sensitised to it. To reduce yeast levels, anti-yeast shampoos and creams (for example, ketoconazole) are widely used in the management of seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Environmental factors such as sun, temperature and humidity may also trigger flares, and the condition tends to worsen when an individual is run down or under prolonged psychological stress.

Babies often develop seborrhoeic dermatitis on the scalp (this is known as ‘cradle cap’). This can occur in any infant and usually resolves by 6-12 months of age. It is different from adult seborrhoeic dermatitis, as it has a different cause.

For more information, see National Eczema Society’s factsheets on Seborrhoeic dermatitis and cradle cap in infants and Seborrhoeic dermatitis in adults.

Most people use a range of cosmetics and toiletries in daily life and these can cause irritation. Examples include soap, foaming washes, exfoliating scrubs, cleansers, toners, make-up, sunscreens and shaving foam. Overuse and even limited use, especially in someone with an eczema tendency, can lead to dryness and soreness of the skin. Even products labelled ‘dermatologically-tested’, ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ can cause irritation. None of these terms guarantees that a product will be trouble-free, especially if it is used by someone with an existing facial eczema. Cosmetic products should be avoided when facial eczema is active, as they are only intended for use on normal/unaffected skin.

Changes in temperature and humidity often aggravate eczema. Some people find that their skin improves in the summer, while others find that hot weather makes them itch and scratch more. Many find that their skin tends to be worse in the winter, when the face, in particular, is exposed to harsh winds, rain, sleet and snow. Moving from the cold into the dry heat of centrally heated buildings can also make the condition worse.

Children, in particular, occasionally suffer from a localised type of irritant contact dermatitis around the lips, as a result of repeated licking, known as ‘lip-licking dermatitis’. The habit arises because the person finds that their dry lips are temporarily more comfortable after being licked, but in the long-term, the repeated contact between saliva and skin does more harm than good.

Teething, too, commonly causes irritant contact dermatitis around the mouth and chin due to the constant wetness and irritation from dribbling.

In addition, runny noses and messy foods when weaning can cause problems. Baby wipes containing irritants such as alcohol and fragrance can dry out and irritate the skin. It is best to use damp cotton pads with emollient on them as an alternative to baby wipes.

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system in the skin overreacts to what has, until this point, been a harmless substance. The face is one of the most common sites for allergic contact dermatitis because facial skin comes into contact with many potential allergens in daily life.

The most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis on the face are fragrances/perfumes (both natural and synthetic) and preservative chemicals in toiletries and cosmetics (e.g. methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI), also known as Kathon CG (MCI/MI)). Other common allergens include hair dye and nail varnish (nail varnish and gel allergy often appear on the face rather than the nail area, due to fingers touching the face). An allergy that has become more prevalent in recent years is methacrylate allergy. This has increased with the demand for acrylic nails.

In rare instances, a person can be affected by airborne, volatile allergens such as industrial chemicals or glues, which find their way onto the face and neck.

People often assume that because they have used a product such as hair dye for several years without any problems, they cannot be allergic to it. Actually, it is the other way around – the more you apply a potential allergen to your skin, the more likely it is that you will one day become allergic to it! This is called a ‘type IV delayed sensitivity reaction’.

Sometimes, people develop an allergic skin reaction to the treatments used for their facial eczema or for related/unrelated conditions on or around the face (e. g. antibiotic ear drops or eye drops). This may give the impression that a treatment is not working because the rash persists as long as the problematic cream/ointment/medication is used. It can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference by appearance alone between a skin infection and a strong allergic reaction.

Allergic contact dermatitis is worse on the area of skin that has been in direct contact with the allergen – so lipstick allergy affects the lips, mascara allergy affects the eyelids etc. Nickel allergy remains one of the most common allergies in women, who often develop it after repeatedly wearing jewellery containing inexpensive metal – this is especially the case with earrings worn in pierced ears.

Allergic contact dermatitis is an example of a delayed allergy reaction as it appears over several hours or days. It is not to be confused with an immediate stinging or itchy sensation after applying a substance, which is usually just a sign of sensitive skin. The delayed onset of an allergic reaction can make it difficult for the affected person to pinpoint what has caused the problem.

Patch testing can help identify if someone has allergic contact dermatitis. It involves the application of small quantities of allergens to skin unaffected by eczema, usually on the upper back. This area of skin must be kept dry and will be examined over several days to see if there is a reaction. Patch testing is a very safe and useful way to investigate suspected allergic contact dermatitis, but it can take considerable skill to interpret the results, and should only be carried out by a specialist who has had appropriate training. Once an allergen has been identified, it is important to avoid or minimise contact with it in the future, as there is at present no way of reversing a skin allergy.

Light sensitive eczema

Many people with eczema find that their skin improves in warm, sunny weather, and phototherapy (a prescribed course of ultraviolet therapy, administered and supervised in a hospital dermatology department) is an additional treatment option for chronic, widespread eczema. However, some people with atopic eczema or facial seborrhoeic dermatitis notice that their skin worsens in strong sunlight.

Certain medications for other conditions can cause an individual to become more sensitive to sunlight, and burn easily, and this often shows up on the face, upper neck and backs of the hands, as these are the body parts that are most frequently exposed to the light. Examples of such medications include some diuretic tablets taken for high blood pressure, and antibiotics. Shaded areas, such as under the chin and behind the ears, tend not to be affected, and this can be a helpful clue that sunlight sensitivity is a problem.

Occasionally, allergic light-sensitive eczema can be caused by touching plants followed by sun exposure (known as ‘phytophotodermatitis’).

Chronic actinic dermatitis is a rare and particularly severe form of sun sensitivity that usually affects older men, and may follow a previous allergic contact dermatitis. High factor sunscreens (SPF50) are important for treatment of this type of eczema, but it is important to find a sunscreen that suits you and does not cause further irritation or allergy. Sunscreens can be prescribed for light sensitive conditions.

Treatment of facial eczema

Eczema on the face requires careful treatment as facial skin is more easily irritated by and vulnerable to the side effects of topical therapy. It is important to consider the possibility of an allergic contact dermatitis in anyone with a persistent facial eczema, even if they have a long-standing, in-built eczema tendency.

It is helpful to make a diagnosis of which particular type of facial eczema someone has in order to know which treatment is likely to work best, and to help give an idea of the expected outcome. Usually, as eczema is a chronic condition, controlling facial eczema and preventing flares will be the main focus of treatment. In general, treatment of facial eczema involves avoiding further irritation caused by cosmetics and toiletries, switching to a gentle regimen of skin cleansing, and actively treating the eczema with emollients and anti-inflammatory therapy (topical steroids for flares and topical calcineurin inhibitors for longer-term treatment and maintenance). For more information on both treatments, please see National Eczema Society’s factsheets on Topical steroids and Topical calcineurin inhibitors.

Practical points

• To cleanse the skin and remove scaling, use a medical emollient as a soap substitute. Avoid cosmetic skin cleansers as they generally contain detergent and fragrance.
• Gently pat the skin with a soft towel to dry it – do not rub.
• Avoid soap, detergents, exfoliating scrubs and toners.
• Apply a bland medical emollient at least twice a day to sore, dry areas.
• Avoid cosmetic moisturisers as these usually contain a much larger number of ingredients and potential allergens than simple medical emollients.
• Products labelled as ‘natural’, ‘dermatologically-tested’ or ‘hypoallergenic’ can cause both irritant and allergic reactions.
• Make-up can irritate facial eczema, especially liquid foundation and mascara, so do not use it on affected areas. Mineral make-up is generally less irritant for people with eczema.
• Remove make-up with emollient on a damp cotton pad. Emollients are just as efficient and effective as cosmetic make-up remover products.
• If you suspect that your make-up may be an irritant, stop using it and re-introduce products one at a time, to see if any particular product is causing irritation.
• Apply a mild potency steroid cream or ointment to affected areas once a day, or as prescribed, for a short treatment burst (usually up to two weeks). These are best applied at night before bed. If your facial eczema is more severe you may be prescribed a moderately potent topical steroid for a short treatment burst.
• Moderate potency steroids may sometimes be prescribed for more severe facial eczema, for a short treatment burst (usually two weeks). One daily application is adequate, usually at night before bed.
• Potent steroids should never be used on the face, except under the close supervision of a dermatologist. They carry a higher risk of skin-thinning and permanent damage.
• Very potent topical steroids should never be used around the eyes.
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (Elidel and Protopic) are helpful options for the long-term management of facial eczema as they do not carry any risk of skin-thinning. Topical calcineurin inhibitors can make the skin more light sensitive, so they should be used at night or with sun protection applied two hours after application. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are only available on prescription and should be prescribed by a specialist, including GPs with a special interest in dermatology.
• Anti-yeast ointments or creams are useful for the management of seborrhoeic dermatitis, with or without a mild topical steroid.
• A sudden, painful flare of eczema with development of clustered spots and feeling unwell, can be a sign of a widespread cold sore virus, and immediate medical attention should be sought. This is a rare but serious viral infection called eczema herpeticum.

To obtain the information on this page in a PDF format, please download our Facial eczema factsheet, below. Detailed information about Seborrhoeic dermatitis can be found in our Seborrhoeic dermatitis factsheet, below.

Eyelid eczema: Causes, types of disease and treatments

Eyelid eczema is the general name for a number of eyelid diseases: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and complex eczema. Eczema is a common skin disease characterized by the appearance of ill-defined erythematous-vesicular lesions accompanied by itching (pruritus). From a histological point of view, these lesions correspond to foci of epidermal spongiosis. In most cases, the mechanism of eczema is allergic in nature and involves both cellular and humoral immunity.

Eyelid eczema can be divided into three broad categories – contact eczema, atopic eczema and eczema of complex etiology, and each of these three categories combines several clinical forms of the disease:

• contact eczema:
• orthoergic eczema
• allergic eczema
• atopic eczema:
• infantile eczema
• eczema in a child
• adolescent eczema
• eczema in adults.
• eczema of complex etiology
• seborrheic eczema
• microbial dermoepidermal eczema
• varicose eczema • eczema of internal origin
• food eczema
• eczema of infectious foci
• eczema associated with certain genetic diseases.

Atopic eyelid eczema Atopic eczema, also known as ‘atopic dermatitis’, is usually caused by a genetic predisposition (atopy). The disease mainly affects children and adolescents and, to a lesser extent, adults. In most cases, patients with atopic dermatitis are also associated with other conditions of allergic etiology – respiratory allergy (asthma) and food allergy, manifested by the appearance of skin reactions after eating allergenic foods.

In general, eyelid lesions are due to hyperreactivity of the skin in contact with certain allergens (genetically inherited factor as well as metabolic disorders play a very important role in the manifestation of these lesions). Patients with atopic dermatitis have a very high plasma concentration of IgE antibodies; immunological studies have also revealed multiple deficiencies in cellular immunity.

Also due to genetic deficiencies, histamine (histamine is a very important mediator of allergic manifestations; it is found especially in the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract) cannot be effectively inactivated – an excess of histamine causes skin lesions. Atopic dermatitis lesions can be caused by a variety of factors.

• light emission
• heat
• ultraviolet radiation
• streptococcal infections
• staphylococcal infections
• fungal infection

Atopic eczema is also called constitutional eczema. Skin lesions are vesicular and are accompanied by itching. Also, the affected area is erythematous, edematous in nature and is in contact with the allergen. Lesions are located especially on the skin folds and on the face. As I mentioned earlier, family predisposition plays a very important role in causing this condition.

Eyelid contact eczema

Contact eczema or contact dermatitis may occur if the eyelid skin has been exposed to substances such as:

• drugs (atropine, pilocarpine, neomycin)
• synthetic dyes
• commercial cosmetics
• detergents

Contact eczema is very common in the general population. Lesions appear in areas prone to contact with allergens. Characteristically, the lesions will recur with new contact with the same allergen. Contact eczema has two clinical forms of the disease:

• irritant form
• allergic form.

Irritant contact eczema (orthoergic) occurs when the allergen is present in large amounts (excessive concentration, quantitative excess or excess heat). Whereas allergic contact eczema occurs any time after this contact, regardless of the amount or concentration of the allergen.

To make an appointment with a doctor, you can call (022) 71 61 44 or 079 99 03 82.

Eye and eyelid eczema

Mayakovskaya, st. 3rd Tverskaya-Yamskaya, 12, building 1. Exit from the metro – the first car from the center. 3 minutes from metro

Office phone numbers:
+7 (495) 649-60-57

Go to contacts

Reviews Yandex

Videos

See all ›

Tests – test yourself

View all ›

A
A
A

Eczema is an allergic skin disease also characterized by rash, burning and itching. Eczema is not contagious, but treatment should be started early. Causes anxiety in connection with a defect in aesthetics, especially if it concerns the eyes and eyelids. Most often, this disease affects women, since not all cosmetics are harmless.

It is quite difficult to immediately determine the causes of eczema, since the factors that provoke the disease can be very different. These reasons can be divided into two groups:

– endogenous;

– exogenous.

Endogenous causes are:

1. congenital predisposition;
2. hormone imbalance;
3. metabolic disorders;
4. disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
5. failures in the immune system.

Exogenous causes are:

1. allergy to dust, flowers, animal hair;
2. long enough medication;
3. detergents, household chemicals;
4. products;
5. cosmetics, both medical and decorative.

The skin around the eyes is very sensitive and is therefore primarily at risk of disease. At the first signs of the disease, you need to completely abandon makeup, all cases are individual and special treatment is prescribed for each.

If the disease is not treated in time, thickening of the eyelid, loss of eyelashes and, in difficult cases, turning the eyelid to the other side is possible. Wounds that occur with eczema need to be treated and disinfected.

Treatment is prescribed after identifying the causes of eczema. Effective means are anti-allergic drugs:

– suprastin

– tavegil

– zyrtec

– lorantadine.

In cases of complications or deterioration of the patient’s state of health with eczema of the eyes and eyelids, hormonal preparations are prescribed.

One of the most important conditions for the treatment of eczema is the rejection of cosmetics for the entire course of treatment.