Dry eyes: causes and treatment

Flaky, dry skin is not just a cosmetic nuisance that can upset a person. The causes of excessive dryness and flaking of the epidermis often lie deeper than it seems at first glance.

Moisturizing the skin with cream, making masks, nourishing with serums is useful, and will help solve the problem for a while. But to prevent it from happening again, when similar symptoms appear, it is worth finding out the exact cause and eliminating it.

Peeling skin under the eyes: main reasons

One of the factors that directly affects the skin, including under the eyes, is insufficient fluid intake.

Most people do not think about how much clean water they drink per day. And, if at some point you calculate this amount, it is unlikely that you will get the 2.5 liters that your body needs so much.

The skin under the eyes is thin and sensitive - it quickly reacts to a lack of fluid with dryness and flaking. Moisturizing from the inside is no less, if not more, important than external moisturizers.

In addition, other factors, including those of pathological origin, can provoke peeling.

Allergic reaction

The skin under the eyes may peel along with other unpleasant symptoms - swelling, redness, itching. In this case, most likely the cause was an allergic reaction to any substances or their components.

An attempt to independently establish the cause can take a long time and, most likely, will not be successful.

In case of allergies, do not delay visiting a doctor.

An allergic reaction in the form of peeling can occur as a result of an insect bite or mechanical damage.

Unsuitable cosmetics

Lanolin, which is found in many cosmetics and is well-accepted by oily skin, easily causes peeling. Especially if the skin is very prone to dryness.

Addiction to cleansing masks and washing with ordinary toilet soap contribute to drying of the skin.

Improper skin care under the eyes

Makeup left on overnight can cause flaking under the eyes.

In addition, improper cleansing of the periorbital area with stretching of the skin does not contribute to its health, causing irritation and peeling.

Note! Eye cream applied incorrectly can cause the skin under the eyes to peel. Even the best product can cause wrinkles, swelling and flaking if used incorrectly.

Fungal infections

If we talk about pathological causes of skin peeling, one of the most common is seborrheic dermatitis, passing to the skin under the eyes from the scalp.

If the disease is not stopped at the initial stage, it will spread to the periorbital area and manifest itself with itching, peeling and irritation.

Some types of blepharitis may also appear as redness and peeling of the skin around the eyes, which is usually accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms.

Adverse external factors

Cold wind, scorching sun or low temperatures become an irritating factor for the skin, and not only under the eyes.

After a wonderful vacation on a tropical beach, you can return home with very flaky skin under your eyes - sand and salt water also irritate and dry it out.

Avitaminosis

Abuse of tasty but unhealthy food also causes the skin under the eyes to become dry and begin to peel.

Fatty, spicy, salty foods, a lot of refined foods and canned goods from the store do not help saturate the epidermis with the necessary nutrients.

Eating such food can lead to the body being sorely lacking in vitamins.

The body first sends a small amount of vitamins from food to vital organs, so the skin becomes sluggish, lifeless and begins to peel off.

Eyelash mite

Another cause of peeling skin under the eyes is eyelash mites, which can stay in the body for a long time and not manifest themselves in any way.

When it is activated, not only dryness and flaking around the eyes are observed, but also the release of pus, loss of eyelashes, and tightness of the skin.

It is important to know! It is impossible to independently determine that the cause of peeling is a mite; this can only be done with the help of medical equipment.

If the skin under your eyes is peeling, you should not delay visiting an ophthalmologist. This symptom often accompanies serious illnesses.

In addition to these reasons, more serious internal disorders also contribute to peeling of the skin, including:

1. Dysbacteriosis;
2. Thyroid dysfunction. With this disease, not only does the skin under the eyes peel off, but its color also changes. With hypothyroidism, in addition to dryness, the skin acquires a yellowish tint;
3. Intoxication of the body;
4. Hormonal disorders;
5. Infections and eye diseases (conjunctivitis, stye).

There are many reasons for peeling skin. If the situation does not improve within a short time, you do not need to solve the problem yourself, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Treatment of dry and flaky skin depending on the cause

Depending on the severity of the causes of skin peeling, appropriate medications are selected.

If after a hot holiday, herbal lotions and additional hydration are sufficient, then for fungal infections, medications are required, including antihistamines and glucocorticosteroids.

What to do if peeling under the eyes is caused by allergies

Often allergic reactions are caused by incorrectly selected cosmetics and, in this case, it will be enough to stop using and actively use moisturizing masks for the dryness and flaking to go away.

Ordinary tap water can also cause an allergic reaction. In this case, it is necessary to cleanse not with foams and cleansers, but with milk and makeup remover with cotton pads.

One of the manifestations of allergies is atopic dermatitis. In this case, take antihistamines, for example, Suprastin and Tavegil.

For external use to relieve symptoms of dermatitis, gels and ointments such as Lorizan and Sudocrem are used.

Sometimes flaky skin under the eyes is a reaction to medications taken. It is difficult to establish that it was the use of these drugs that caused the allergy.

If the cause of peeling has not been established for some time, you should visit an allergist.who will find out the cause and prescribe a course of antihistamines.

How to treat fungal skin lesions under the eyes

All fungal and similar infectious diseases, including conjunctivitis, blepharitis, aspergillosis, are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, which will intensify without proper treatment.

In addition to dryness and flaking, the symptoms of infections include:

1. constant itching;
2. redness of the corners of the eyes;
3. eyelash loss.

In this situation, you should not delay your visit to the ophthalmologist. Usually, to treat such diseases, appropriate ointments based on copper or mercury are prescribed, and solutions of brilliant green and iodine are used.

In difficult cases, treatment with antibiotics and sulfonamides is justified; a course of Itraconazole and Fluconazole is often prescribed.

Note! Drops prepared in pharmacies (eye drops “Amphotericin B”, “Levorin”) are highly effective in the treatment of fungal diseases of the skin of the eyelids.

Vitamin therapy for vitamin deficiency

The main enemies of dry skin around the eyes are vitamins A and E. You can buy individual vitamins in capsules at the pharmacy and add them when preparing masks.

The main therapy for vitamin deficiency will, of course, be taking vitamin-mineral complexes.

Vitamins "Aevit" have proven themselves to improve skin condition., although you can also purchase separate packages of vitamins A and E at the pharmacy and use them in the required dosage.

To solve the problem of vitamin deficiency, it is necessary to review the daily diet and add to the menu:

1. eggs;
2. tomatoes;
3. parsley (vitamin A);
4. nuts;
5. milk;
6. vegetable oil (vitamin E);
7. bananas;
8. buckwheat;
9. salmon (B vitamins);
10. black currant;
11. pepper;
12. citrus fruits (vitamin C).

What to do if peeling occurs due to unfavorable external factors

If the cause of peeling is extreme weather conditions, scorching sun, sea water or unfavorable environmental conditions, If possible, it is necessary to try for the period of treatment of such weather conditions avoid and do not apply makeup while the skin is peeling.

It is better to cleanse with products that do not contain alcohol. For these purposes, use freshly brewed tea or chamomile decoction.

It is necessary to wipe the skin without rubbing or pressing. At the end of the procedure, be sure to moisturize with a suitable cream.

To eliminate peeling in such cases, you can use Advantan cream., which is a corticosteroid drug that relieves itching, irritation and inflammation of the skin.

How to treat eyelash mites

The eyelash mite, which is constantly present in the human microflora, begins to show vigorous activity and cause trouble only when metabolic processes are disrupted and immunity is reduced.

You cannot treat this type of disease on your own., since its causes lie much deeper and, trying to get rid of unpleasant sensations in the eye area, you can miss the time for the development of internal disorders, for example, gastrointestinal diseases, sinusitis, hormonal disorders.

It is necessary to visit an ophthalmologist who will prescribe proper treatment, and will refer you for further diagnostics to suitable specialists.

Direct treatment of the periorbital area during this period involves cleansing with an alcohol solution of eucalyptus or calendula using disposable wipes.

After 10–15 minutes, a special cream or ointment (for example, Demalon) prescribed by a doctor is applied to the skin of the eyelids.

Traditional recipes for treating peeling skin under the eyes

If the peeling of the skin under the eyes is caused by not too serious reasons, folk remedies can cope with the unpleasant phenomenon.

To eliminate dryness and flaking, use masks, compresses, lotions and rubbing the skin with ice with the addition of herbs.

Compresses from decoctions of medicinal herbs

Many herbs have miraculous properties that help not only eliminate flaking and dryness, but also tone the skin and give it freshness.

The table shows several recipes for preparing compresses.

There are many plants and herbs that can help eliminate dryness and flaking; most of them can be purchased at a pharmacy or collected from your garden. Among such herbs are dandelion, coltsfoot, fennel, mint, and hops.

Lotions made from raw potatoes and cucumbers

Thanks to 3 quarters of a potato tuber consists of water, Potatoes are known not only for their whitening and toning properties for facial skin, but also as a means to eliminate dryness and combat peeling under the eyes.

Potatoes contain many vitamins, for example, a line of B vitamins, vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin K, selenium and choline.

With a rich composition, compresses, masks and lotions made from potato juice are hypoallergenic and suitable for any skin type.

Lotions made from a mixture of raw potato and cucumber juices are effective for eliminating dryness.

Vegetables are grated, the juice is squeezed out, and mixed in equal proportions. The lotions are applied for 20-25 minutes; after removal, it is recommended to lubricate the skin with olive or any other vegetable oil.

Masks with various oils

Peeling of the skin under the eyes can be overcome by regularly making masks from olive or almond oils, intensively nourishing and moisturizing the skin.

To do this, you need to moisten gauze or a thick napkin in warm oil and apply it to the skin of the eyelids for 15 minutes. After the mask, wipe the skin with a piece of ice and apply a nourishing cream.

A similar mask can be made from jojoba oil or castor oil.

Prevention: to keep the skin under the eyes always healthy

To enjoy healthy skin and avoid dryness and flaking, just follow a few simple rules:

1. Select eye cosmetics taking into account age and skin characteristics;
2. Makeup applied in the morning should be removed in the evening;
3. Be sure to nourish and moisturize the skin, use creams with a high SPF filter;
4. After washing, do not wipe the skin with a hard towel, just blot it with a napkin;
5. Drink at least 2 liters of water per day;
6. Try not to eat fatty, spicy and salty foods;
7. Quit nicotine and alcohol;
8. Stick to a balanced menu, including fish, liver, eggs, and dairy products.

A healthy lifestyle contributes to good immunity, excellent health and skin condition, including under the eyes.

To do this, you don’t need much - good sleep, walks in the fresh air, lack of stress, regular eye rest when working at the computer and the use of high-quality decorative and care products.

Dryness and flaking, a feeling of tightness, and the inability to apply beautiful makeup can really fray your nerves.

If the situation has already occurred, measures should be taken immediately, and if you suspect that the cause of peeling is a disease, going to an ophthalmologist is the best solution to the problem.

This video will tell you what to do if the skin under your eyes is peeling and how to restore it:

From this video you will learn the reasons why your face may peel off:

in Eye diseases 03/16/2019 0 88 Views

Dryness around the eyes can be caused by climate, harsh chemicals, etc. First identify the cause and then treat it with the most effective remedies. The skin around the eyes is incredibly delicate, which means dryness around the eyes can cause irritation and redness. This dry skin under the eyes can occur for a wide variety of reasons, with just as many treatment options. The condition can range from mild to severe, and this determines whether simple solutions will work or whether you need to rely on stronger medical treatment. Once you know the reasons, you can find better ways to fix the problem.

What causes dry skin around the eyes?

Many things can lead to dry eye area, including skin and environmental issues.

1. Dermatological disorders
There are a number of dermatological conditions that can cause dry eyes, including:

1. Sunburn: Any overexposure (or even exposure) to the sun's ultraviolet radiation can cause minor or severe burns to the skin of your eyes. You may also have dry skin near your eyes if you are exposed to welding arcs or sunlight.
2. Blepharitis: this condition causes inflammation of the eyelids with scaly, dry skin. This may be caused by facial rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis or bacterial infections.
3. Perioral dermatitis. This serious condition usually affects adult women and can spread to the mouth and nose area. This is a skin rash that usually occurs due to poor hygiene.
4. Atopic dermatitis or eczema: it may affect the area around the eyes, such as the eyelids. Eczema can lead to flaky skin as well as dryness.

2. Climatic conditions

Dry skin around the eyes can also be linked to climate, with both humid and hot weather being the main culprits. Additionally, any extreme weather conditions or sudden changes can aggravate dry skin and make it worse.

3. Stress in the skin around the eyes

Stress on the skin around the eyes can also lead to dryness. This may be due to excessive rubbing of ointments into the skin or wearing and applying makeup. Some examples of ways to target the skin under your eyes would be dirty makeup brushes with accumulated bacteria, applying mascara and/or eyeliner, or using concealer so you can hide the dark skin under your eyes.

4. Contact with harsh chemicals

Exposure to harsh chemicals can also cause dry skin around the eyes. Because this skin is thinner and more sensitive, it is naturally susceptible to this type of irritation from toxins and chemicals, including skin products and facial cleansers.

How to deal with dry skin around the eyes

Due to the delicate skin surrounding your eyes, gentle and natural products should be your first choice for relieving dry skin. First, it will help prevent the problem from getting worse; secondly, it will help save you money on medications that can be expensive and even lead to side effects.

1. Natural remedies

To some extent, the natural remedies you use to treat dry eyes will depend on the cause.

Caused by eczema: You can try topical solutions such as bathing with epsom salts, using sea/salt water as a spray, or using organic coconut oil. You can also eat foods with lots of probiotics or gelatin, since probiotics stimulate good bacteria that can heal dryness. You can use plain yogurt as a topical remedy or increase your yogurt intake, and eat foods with potassium such as kimchi, miso, buttermilk, cottage cheese, kombucha and kefir.
Caused by perioral dermatitis. Avoid scented facial cleansers or soaps, which can irritate your skin. Use clean, warm water to wash your face and temporarily stop wearing makeup, at least on your eyes. You should also stop using any face cream and opt for gel or liquid sunscreen rather than gels.
Caused by blepharitis: To naturally treat this cause of dry skin around the eyes, apply a warm compress to your eyelids or apply calendula topically. You should also try eating foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory, such as omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and turmeric. Also try applying tea tree oil, coconut oil or castor oil topically.
Summoned by the sun: Your ideal treatment for this condition should prevent it from recurring. Try not to go outside between 10 and 4 o'clock as the sun will be at its strongest during these hours. Also wear sunglasses. You can also apply aloe vera, milk or oatmeal compress or take a cool bath.

2. Common Home Remedies to Try

The following natural remedies may also help relieve dry skin under the eyes:

Cucumber juice: Use a cotton swab to apply cucumber juice. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. Wipe the surface dry and use a quality moisturizer.
Honey: Apply some honey around your eyes. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing off. Try not to rub too much as honey is sticky and the skin around the eyes is very delicate.
Olive oil: You can apply olive oil topically to dry skin and leave it on overnight. This method helps because the oil is known for its restorative properties.

Tea bag: Take a green tea bag and dip it in cold water before placing it on your eyes. This not only soothes dryness, but also prevents the formation of wrinkles and boosts cell regeneration.

Raw milk: just apply raw milk under your eyes. Leave it on for a while before using water to rinse it off.

Pink water: Use natural rose water by applying it externally around your eyes. Water hydrates the skin and prevents puffy eyes. It is also a coolant and toner and will even reduce the size of your pores.

Minimize makeup: be very careful when using makeup around your eyes, only use it if you don't have any problems. When you wear eye makeup, read the ingredients and rely on a quality makeup remover to remove your makeup before bed.

Sleep habits: Getting enough sleep ensures that your body has enough time to repair your dry eyes. Aim for seven hours a night and choose silk covers to reduce friction on your face.

3. Treatment

Antibiotics can be used to treat facial psoriasis, but you can also use a steroid medication that is specifically formulated for the areas around the eyes.

Eczema can typically be treated with lotions, but you can also use steroids. It can also be treated with lotions and gels containing medications such as an antihistamine, antifungal, antibiotic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or anesthetic.

Treatment for blepharitis may include steroid ointments and antibiotics. You can also find special lotions and creams to moisturize dry eye skin.

4. When to see a doctor

Always remember that dryness around the eyes can also indicate a serious condition. Note whether the dryness becomes chronic or the skin becomes excessively dry, and consult a doctor in either situation. If you don't treat it, dry skin can get significantly worse, so always take care of it as soon as you can.

In absolutely all people, the area around the eyes is prone to dryness, which is fraught with early wrinkles. It is quite possible to cope with this problem if you provide the skin of your eyelids with good care.

1. Causes of dry skin around the eyes
2. Prevention measures
3. How to care for the skin around your eyes
4. Recommendations for restoring the skin around the eyes
5. Review of suitable creams

Causes of dry skin around the eyes

The condition of the skin around the eyes is influenced not only by the peculiarities of its structure, but also by a number of other circumstances.

In autumn and winter, cold wind causes tears: salty liquid, in contact with the skin, damages the already weak lipid barrier. This leads not only to dryness, but also to irritation. In sunny weather, ultraviolet radiation provokes hyperkeratosis, a protective reaction that causes the skin to become rougher.

Low air humidity

In rooms with central heating or air conditioning, the air is usually dry, and the skin experiences a total lack of moisture.

Thoughtlessly selected cosmetics, makeup left on overnight, masks applied to the area around the eyes contrary to the instructions - all this can cause dry eyelid skin.

If the peeling of the skin around the eyes is not associated with cold or the effects of diet, you need to check whether it is a reaction to allergens.

The most common of them are blepharitis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. If dry eyelid skin is caused by a disease, do not self-medicate. Make an appointment with a specialist to clarify the diagnosis and provide your skin with adequate therapy.

Signs of dry eyelid skin – tightness, redness, itching © iStock

Signs of dry skin around the eyes: