The rash on eyelid is an inflammatory condition, in which a rash appears on the skin of the eyelid. This inflammatory response usually appears after the skin has come into contact with an irritating substance (also known as a triggering factor). In the majority of the situations, the rash is caused by allergic contact or irritation. However, there are cases in which seasonal allergies lead to rashes on eyelids or different numerous autoimmune diseases that can cause such problems as well.
Also known as the eyelid eczema, this medical condition afters predominantly the female population, as the tend to use a lot of cosmetics and health care products containing all sort of chemicals and harmful agents. The skin on the eyelids is incredibly thin and this is one of the main reasons why it is also prone to different problems, including these nasty rashes.
Causes of Rash on Eyelid
These are the most common causes that lead to the appearance of a rash on eyelids:
- Direct contact with irritating substances – the list of potential irritating substances is incredibly long but eyelid rashes can appear after you get in contact with any of the following:
- Laundry detergent and softener
- Soaps, shampoos and other skin care products, including hair sprays
- Chemicals contained by various cleaning products
- Chlorine (swimming pools present a particular risk, as the cleaning treatment is made with chlorine)
- Dust and other particles carried by the wind
- Hydrophobic substances
- Cosmetics – this represents a particular risk for women, as any eyeliner, eyeshadow or mascara can contain harmful, allergenic substances
- Sunscreen
- Eyelash curlers (especially if they are made out of nickel) or tweezers
- False eyelashes (the adhesive can be irritating as well)
- Emollients and moisturizers
- Eye creams
- Cleansers
- Fragrances and essential oils
- Eye drops
- Solutions used to clean the contact lenses
- Swimming goggles (especially if they are made from rubber)
- Hair dye
- Nail cosmetics, including false nails (as we all have the tendency to touch our eyelids with our hands)
- Allergies to:
- Pollen
- Pet hair
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Food allergies
- Autoimmune diseases – dermatomyositis, lupus
- Jewelry made from nickel and gold
Treatment for Rashes on Eyelid
Eyelid rashes are most commonly treated with topical corticosteroids, as these can help with all the symptoms, decreasing the inflammation and reducing the need to scratch. Calcineurin inhibitors are also recommended, especially if the rash has been caused by the presence of an autoimmune disorder. These are drugs indicated to suppress the response of the immune system and they can be very effective when it comes to eyelid rashes. In more severe cases, where the inflammation is severe and there is a lot of itchiness, oral corticosteroids are recommended. However, these should not be taken for prolonged periods of time, as they can have negative side-effects.
Apart from the medical treatment, there are several things you can do in order to guarantee a faster recovery. First and foremost, you have to avoid the contact with the irritant or allergic substance. You have to use all your willpower and avoid scratching or rubbing incessantly, as these two bad habits can lead to secondary infections that will require more aggressive treatments. If you have to touch your eyelids, be sure that you have washed your hands first. Also, it might be a good idea to refrain from using any kind of cosmetics while you are suffering from the rash.
In order to make sure that the affected area recovers, you need to wash your eyelids and the surrounding area with plain water. You can then use a cleanser that is made out of natural ingredients or is recommended for people who have a sensitive skin. When going outside, it might be a good idea to wear wrap around goggles, as these will protect your eyelids from wind, dust particles and other debris. If you follow this advice, then soon you will be cured from the eyelid rash. However, keep in mind that any new contact with the irritant or allergic substance can cause the eyelid rash to reappear. In such cases, prevention is the key.
Rash on eyelid Pictures
Pictures of rashes on eyelid….
