My Eyelid Eczema

*Please note: I am not a doctor, nor am I selling anything. I am just sharing the journey that I had through a horrible bout of face/ eyelid eczema and what I did to cure/overcome it.*

UPDATE: My Eczema was an allergic reaction to CATS. It got progressively worse until I had to (sadly) find a different home for my cats and move into a new house that never had cats.

Every winter for the past 3-4 years, I have spent at least one month with eczema on my eyelid(s). It is itchy, painful and ugly. I live in Colorado, where there is NEVER a lot of moisture in the air. Also, eczema can be genetic. I NEVER had it before, but my youngest child was born in 2003, and once he turned 1, he started getting eczema on his legs and upper arms. We could not figure out WHO he inherited it from until the Winter following his 1st B-Day when all of a sudden I wound up with the SAME raised, cracking itchy stuff on my eyelids.

My guess is that it was dormant in me until after he was born.

Anyway, he “got over” it by the time he was a about 3 … but I still got it … on my eyelids … Every Winter. In 2009 – during the creation of this blog – it got the absolute WORST that is has ever gotten.

According to Wikipedia:

“There is no known cure for eczema, thus treatments aim to control the symptoms: reduce inflammation and relieve itching.”

MedicineNet.com says,

“The goals for the treatment of eczema are to prevent itching, inflammation, and worsening of the condition.”

Basically, there is no “CURE” for eczema. But I am not okay with this. There IS a cure … the cure is to remove the CAUSE of the eczema (an auto-immune reaction to an allergen) which will get rid of the eczema.

I am not in a business where I can hide in my cubicle until is goes away on it’s own. I am in a face-to-face business that requires me to be somewhat presentable at any given moment. Eczema on my eyelid is NOT helping me or my business. The worst part of having unsightly eyelid eczema is that it itches like crazy … and scratching only makes it worse. (Did you know? “Itching (pruritus) is a sensation that instinctively demands scratching.” – Merck.com LOL.)

Over the past 3-4 years, I have just been putting pure Vitamin E oil on it. I know that there are the corticosteroid creams out there that can help, but the thought of putting that so close to my eyeball just completely freaks me out.

Not to mention that I was raised by my Mom, who can cure almost ANYTHING naturally, so I KNOW there is a natural cure out there. Her words ring through my head “treat your skin ailments internally AND externally” …

With this pre-wisdom from my Mom, I decided to talk to my friend who owns a health food store in Colorado Springs – Mountain Mama’s. She helped me pick out some things for internal and external use.

This blog is dedicated to my journey to CURE My Eyelid Eczema.

UPDATE: My Eczema was an allergic reaction to cats. It got progressively worse until I had to (sadly) find a different home for my cats and move into a new house that never had cats.

306 Comments »

[…] My Eyelid Eczema […]

Pingback by Interesting Findings About My Eyelid Eczema « Curing My Eyelid Eczema | January 14, 2009 | Reply
- Thanks for all of your posts! Very helpful and helps to realize we are figuring this out together.
  
  Eczema Natural Healing – Discover how I healed myself from eczema naturally
  
  I have had eczema on my left eye for a year now.. Used corticosteroid creams and many environmental and diet changes w improvements n many way….. Except for my eczema, which got worse every time I stopped the corticosteroid. I just found this link and wanted to post it here in case it is helpful to you. I am going to do some of the things she has suggested and feel encouraged by her story.
  
  Hope it works!
  
  Good luck to all of you!
  
  Comment by Rosita | May 31, 2012 | Reply
Oh My God. I have the EXACT same thing. I have a picture from Christmas where I look JUST like you did after you went off Prednisone for a day.

The course had done wonders, but as soon as I went off it, it came back. I think the trick is to heal it COMPLETELY before stopping any treatment. Then it should lie dormant for awhile. (until something else sets it off.)

it is HARD dealing with this all the time. Especially as a female professional. The stares I get on the street or out in public anywhere are also wonderful.

I’d like to stay in touch with you if you wouldn’t mind. I am constantly looking for more ways to soothe my skin.

And I also love aquaphor – it soothes and prevents that god awful FLAKING and splitting!

Now to tackle the swelling and redness…I think I’m going to go ice my eye. 🙂 Today, its my right one that just wants to be a pain.

Take care ok?

Comment by Andrea | January 21, 2009 | Reply
- Andrea – Thank you for your comment. This just SUCKS!!! I totally agree that it is probably best to be completely cured before stopping the Prednisone. The doc I saw told me that I need to slowly taper off of it as well. Today was the first day that I felt like a human … in weeks! I think that the Prednisone, Aquafor and diet change has really helped. I am still sticking to rice … water … apple juice … baked chicken and fish. I had a salad yesterday – just greens and a light vinaigrette dressing. (And of course I have a cup of coffee in the morning … because I refuse to go through caffeine withdrawls on top of all this…)
  
  Of course, I would love to keep in touch with you about this. GOOD LUCK!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 21, 2009 | Reply
  - Hi, I came upon this article while searching for a way to get rid of the eczema on my eyelids. I’ve been having a ton of trouble with redness and foundation lately. I was born with eczema on my entire body. I am now 18 and have it everywhere (except palms and bottom of feetsies!). I am on triamcinolone for my body, which is a steroid for normal skin. I have desonide for my face, and nothing for my eyes. 😦 I do agree with Andrea, Aquaphor is like water for me! So what exactly is prednisone? I have tried multiple things throughout my life- I was one of the first Americans to have Protopic (which ended up giving me herpes zauster in fifth grade), I’m on allergy shots, I tried UVB rays, I’m on several daily antihistimines, etcetera. I’d love to talk to others who know how it feels. Having eczema on my whole body is not only extremely uncomfortable, but no body understands. It gets really hard at times. Someone mentioned stares- haha I tell people I have leprosy and some have believed me!! I am an 18 year old girl who is facing a life long struggle with something that takes advantage of every way it can make me sick. I am desperate to rid it.
    
    Comment by Madeline | December 28, 2011
  - Prednisone is a steroid that inhibits the body from reacting to things it thinks are toxins. There was some relief when I was on it but also plenty of side effects. 😦
    
    Have you ever been tested for allergies? Cat allergies were the source of my eczema.
    
    Good luck!!
    
    Comment by Mariana | December 28, 2011
  - You are an amazing person. I had bad eczema on my face and I know how you feel. I can’t believe how strong you are. Power to you. I am on antidepressants to help relieve anxiety, which I think has helped reduce the inflammation. This might be true since I know that stress releases inflammatory mediators which can increase hypersensitivity to allergens. also another piece of advice, Avoid perfumes and milk. Lactose in milk is commonly associated with cause increased mucus secretions and itching in people with asthma and allergies. Don’t cut out your calcium though! you can take soya milk instead as a calcium supplementation to you diet.
    
    I wish you all the best and Keep er lit 😀
    
    Comment by Daniel | April 12, 2013
  - My husband was in agony with eczema all over his body. The steroid creams are extremely expensive and a mess to live with. He itched and scratched constantly. A friend, who is a pharmacist, told him to bathe and soak for 15 minutes a day in a warm bath with half a cup of Clorox in it to kill the bacteria that cause the itching. It worked! It did not cause pain as you might expect, and he could gradually reduce the number of baths to one every two weeks. Nothing cures eczema, but to reduce the itching and scratching (and bleeding on all his clothes and sheets), this is as close to a miracle as I have ever experienced and worth a try. Naturally your dermatologist will admit that it can work for some people, but will not volunteer the information. Steroid use can reduce your body’s immune system and increase the possibility of cancer. Try this home remedy. It saved my poor husband’s life and the quality of our life together.
    
    Comment by Lynn MacEwen | May 17, 2014
  - Can we talk am suffering excema. My number 815 955 5177 Mrs bassett
    
    Comment by Melinda Bassett | January 29, 2016
  - I would talk to your dermatologist. I am not a doctor/dermatologist. Good luck!
    
    Comment by Mariana | February 1, 2016
- I’ve had this same problem for quite some time, I tried a million things, and then went to the allergist. He said 95% of the time when women have rashes on their eye lids it’s from nail polish. He instructed me to stop wearing nail polish for a month and see what happens. Took off my nail polish, and a day later it was all cleared up. I’m on day 4 with no problems 🙂
  
  Comment by Dianna | August 27, 2012 | Reply
  - That is very interesting!
    
    Comment by Mariana | August 27, 2012
  - I wonder if that includes toe nail polish 😦
    
    Comment by Kris | August 21, 2013
So, the doctor said it was cats, as well… but i’ve been experimenting with a tomato/anything in the nightshade family theory…and my symptoms are GONE!! I know it’s not a common allergy, and that’s the reason I wasn’t tested for it…but I’ve been researching other people with the same symptoms as you and I have and everything points to tomatoes. Your allergies could very well be just cats, but it wouldn’t hurt to do a little experiment. After just a few days, my face swelling went down and my alligator eyelid skin started to flake away. I thought of you immediately. I’ll pray it works for you too!

Comment by Lauren | July 28, 2009 | Reply
Lauren – Thank you for your comment! That totally makes sense. I have always been sensitive to tomatoes … I will look into it. 🙂

Comment by Mariana | July 28, 2009 | Reply
I have this stupid eyelid eczema too!!!!
Lucky for you, you’re only allergic to cats…My allergies are indoor AND outdoor (cats, dogs, dust mites, ragweed, ash, birch, maple, and one other kind of tree).

My symptoms started at the beginning of summer, around early june. I noticed that my eyes were watery and there was a little bit of swelling at the base of my hair folicles on my eyelids.

Then, the rain came. It rained here every day in New Hampshire for a month straight. During that period, my symptoms became progressively worse. So I went to my doctor and he put me on claritin and an eye drop called Pataday. I noticed little improvement.

I thought that perhaps i was allergic to mold, which I thought would be growing somewhere in our house because of all the moisture in the air.

Then I FINALLY got an appointment with an allergist. He suggested that i could be allergic to my cats and dog 😦 I’ve had cats and dogs in my home ever since I was little and I never had any reaction. My doctor explained that when i went away to my first year at colloege last year, I wasn’t being frequently exposed to the animals, and my body because more sensitive to the allergens.

My doctor put me on Xyzal (prescription strength zyrtec) and prednisone, which worked like a charm, but it should not be taken for a long period of time, so i was only on the for a few weeks. When I came off of the predisone, I was back to square 1, total swelling of the eyelid, itching, watering, scaling and pain under the skin. He also prescribed me Ellidel, a topical treatment for eczema. Its a greasy cream that i rub on my eyes about 4 times per day which usually stops the itching, and does a pretty good job of moisturizing. He also gave me a sample of Vanicream, a basic moisturizer which helped a lot with the flakiness.

So this whole summer I have been combating multiple allergies, and finally theyre under control. Right now, the ragweed is pollinating so i’ve been staying inside :-/. I go back to school in two weeks, where there will be no cats or dogs, less carpet (for the dust mites to live in) and I will have air conditioning (YESSS!). Hopefully that will do the trick to eliminate my eczema! Then we can start thinking about allergy shots, but thats a whole other thing.

Please please please lets stay in touch.

Are you all better now?

Comment by Becca | August 16, 2009 | Reply
- I am SO SORRY! I hope that your venture back to school helps you HEAL.
  
  I think getting healthier, overall, is also key – really boost up my immune system and take care of myself … I have been MUCH healthier since I started dealing with this, and now I can even go into a house where a cat is and not IMMEDIATELY flare up. (Of course, I can only be in there for a few minutes, but it is better than before!)
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 16, 2009 | Reply
- I seem to have finally found a solution to mine. I was prescribed Desonide .05% topical steroid ointment (dermatologist told me it is a mild steroid ointment). I used it for a few days until the red and swelling went down. Then they suggested Aquaphor…which made it worse! So I did the ointment again for a couple days. As soon as it went down again, I started using Ava Anderson Diaper Cream and I haven’t had a flare up for over a month! I use it at night and in the morning on my eyelids and any other dry patches I get. I’m telling you, this stuff has been miraculous! It’s all natural ingredients, and after shipping it was about $25, but a little goes a long way! I don’t sell it, they have a website, but my friend sells it, or you can just get it from the website without a “host”. https://extranet.securefreedom.com/Ava/Shopping/ShoppingCart_Detail.asp?PriceID=4105&Cat=avaBABY – baby products|ALL&Qty=1
  
  I know it sounds funny, diaper cream of all things, but I’m telling you, it has worked miracles! My friend will mail you samples if you email her http://3805.avaandersonnontoxic.com/shop.aspx
  
  Comment by Dianna | June 21, 2013 | Reply
- I have the same allergies as Becca, Cats, dogs, Mountain Cedars, grass, weeds, dust mites. I tried vitamin E oil but if it is not pure the rash and swelling will come back. Nothing else helps. Had topical steroid on but it is too close to my eyes and I can feel the sting in my eyes.
  I will try giving up tomatoes, anything else??
  
  Comment by kimv | April 17, 2014 | Reply
Hi there! There IS a CURE…

I know exactly how hopeless and depressing it can feel when you feel like you don’t have a cure for eyelid eczema. I can’t remember exactly when my 5 year battle started, but i think i was around 22 or 23 year old. For 5 whole years, I could not find the cure for eyelid eczema. At first i started getting it only in the winter, but eventually it was year round, EVERY single morning my eyes would wake up dry and flaky eyelids. I went first to my GP, who prescribed me 0.5% hydrocortisone. It did not work, or if it did, very minimally. I tried naturopathic medicines too but unfortunately a couple made my condition worst. Eventually I went to a dermatologist, who gave me Protopic cream (found out its actually not for eczema), but i tried it anyway it for a bout a year or so. It helped, for a few days, but as soon as I stopped, it came back and so i could never stop using it. i didn’t like using a medication every day. And still, every single morning i would wake up with scaly itchy red flakes over my eyelid. My doctor told me to stop using eyemakep, so i stopped using all make up just to be sure it wasn’t an allergy. But still it did not go away. Then i went to an allergy specialist who told me it its most likely a dust allergy reaction. I changed the sheets more often, and used hypoallergenic bed sheets and pillows..that helped a bit, but still, every morning, even after i put loads of vaseline over my eyelids…i would still get dry, flaky eyelids, even after a full night rest. I still remember once i tried canola oil which really helped but only for a couple days or so. I was sooo desparerate. 😦 Eventually the eczema spread to my lower eyelids, and also the corners of my nose, and at the bridge of my nose. i was so depressed and thought there would never be a cure! Until one day i broke down crying and my sister sent me to a walk in doctor. My mom did a special prayer for me (and to this day, i believe that was my path to finding the cure for ME ). That day at the walk in clinic, that doctor put me back on hydrocortisone, but used a STRONGER DOSE than the one my original doctor gave me. Instead of my original dose of 0.5%, he put me on 1%. I used this stuff, and it worked like a charm. After a few months, little by little, my eyelid eczema disappeeared. Now i have minor bouts, if i’m especially around dusty conditions for sleep, or if the weather is cold, but its not nearly as bad as it used to and not so noticeable either. I can wear makeup again no problem though i use Vichy’s products cause they are hypoallergenic and cover my dark circles very well. I really hope it stays this year, its been a year or so, but at least i know there is a cure out there. I thank God for getting me out of that horrible period in my life!

What i would recommend is: ask your doctor for a slightly higher dosage of the steroid cream. You might have the right drug, just not the right dose! Steroid is an anti-inflammatory so it really works best. The key is you don’t want to be using it forever, cause it could thin the eyelids so try not to use it for too long. I used absolutely no makeup while my eczema got back under control. I didn’t even use any harmful soaps -i think i used just water to wash my eyes. To help moisturize my eyelids, I used burt bee’s honey lip balm over my eye lids and this worked like a charm and i highly recommend it! of course ask your doctor first, but i really don’t think it has anything in it that can harm your eyes.

Anyway, i wish you all the best on your search. Hope it works out for you.

Comment by Shumaira | September 23, 2009 | Reply
- Thank you for sharing! That is a great idea. If you can’t get to the actual cause (mine was cat allergies) then finding relief is so important! I hope that this helps some of our readers.
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 28, 2009 | Reply
- good stuff!
  
  Comment by Rana | September 3, 2012 | Reply
- Check to see if you have Celiac or gluten intolerance. There is a huge link between gluten intolerance and eyelid eczema. Also be careful if eating legumes even green beans or chickpeas.
  
  Comment by Jen | March 24, 2014 | Reply
OMG. This is totally me. I was on predinose and the eye excema went away. Then when I got off the medication it came right back. I too have a public job and am on tv alot. I feel so ugly! Its red burning and scaly! I am at my wits end. I am stressed out. I fear my apartment is moldy and it all feels hopeless. Any ideas.

Comment by michelle | September 29, 2010 | Reply
Thank you SO much for this blog. My 3 year old daughter has been suffering from eczema since she was a baby. Her pediatrician doesn’t seem to care. Nothing she gave us worked, and it is getting way worse than it used to be. I am going to try some of the things people suggested on here…thank you all…I hope they work!! Her eyelids are so bad they crack and bleed, and then when she cries it makes it worse. Thank you all again!!!! Wish me luck!

Comment by Gloria | November 4, 2010 | Reply
- I wish you ALL the luck for your daughter!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | November 4, 2010 | Reply
- If your pediatrician doesn’t seem to care, get a second, third or even fourth opinion. She should not have to suffer like that. If you have animals, clean a reoom top to bottom and only put your daughter in that room for a couple of weeks and see if that helps. Good luck, Mary
  
  Comment by Mary | February 21, 2012 | Reply
- I wrote a hasty reply yesterday but wanted to give you some advice thaat was given to me 20 years ago when my son was a baby. He had a multiple of problems that the pediatrician was not addressing including not sleeping, vommiting, hives and more. Someone told me to go to the delivery room where he was delivered and talk to the nurses there and get a recomendation for a pediatrician. Best advice I’ve ever gotten. It was a little awkward at first, but when I brought this screaming baby in and told them I couldn’t nurse anymore because my nipples were bleeding and my pediatrician kept saying “give it a little more time….”, the nurses were so sympathetic, gave me the name of a good, caring pediatrician as well as a good obgyn and before long life became better and everyone was happier. If you don’t have insurance, take your little one to an emergency room…not a large hospital but a smaller one where you won’t get lost in the shuffle. Bring your baby with you at her worst time so there is sympathy and affection for her from the admitting staff. I have worked with children for years and was an administer in aa hospital for children for a number of years. It’s unfortunate, but the mom’s who made the most fuss get the best results…I also worked with kids with disabilities and I had 2 moms that when we needed funds or donations from large organizations to keep our small non-profit school running, they would make appts with the powers that be and bring their little girls with them. Just like my italian mom, guilt worked for me and so it does with all children and their caregivers. Hang in there, you need some support too. You’re a good, caring mom who needs help for her baby and doctors should be responding. If you are a young mom it’s even worse because many times doctors are dismisive. Let them see her and her pain…your results will be better and you will feel better. Good luck from an older mom….
  
  Comment by Mary | February 22, 2012 | Reply
- Gloria: Your daughter could be reacting to her diet. A friend of mine has a daughter who had eczema almost from birth. She had to eliminate different things from her diet to determine what seemed to cause or worsen the flaire ups. Her daughter is now 10 and eats foods that are gluten-free, she also avoids foods with food dyes or sugar (expecially refined white sugar), MSG, corn syrup, etc. and has very few problems with eczema. Sounds like a lot of work but if you just start eliminating one thing at a time and note her reaction, you may be able to determine what is causing or adding to her skin rashes. Maybe your primary care Dr. can refer you to a nutritionist? If you have health insurance it may be covered, so check your policy.
  
  Comment by Maryann Lang | February 22, 2012 | Reply
- My son had this and it was due to orange juice. His eyelids would scale over & he could not even open them. He was a toddler then, and now, at 16, he can drink it whenever he wants. I found this page because at 44, I am now getting it. Myu daughter has had a cat for years… and only now I am starting this. So, I’m not sure what it is. I do suffer a lot of allergies… but it’s back to the drawing board to figure out what the cause is.
  
  Good luck to all… Stacey
  
  Comment by Stacey | March 4, 2012 | Reply
  - p.s. I did not know about the thinning lids thing… I have been using a cortisone cream and at 44, thinning lids is BAD… So, thanks for the info.
    
    Comment by Stacey | March 4, 2012
  - Yeah I had cats my whole life and was fine and then one day I was allergic. Apparently this is common. It’s like a switch flips in our bodies making us intolerant to things we used to be fine with. And then sometimes it switches back. So weird.
    
    Good luck!
    
    Comment by Mariana | March 4, 2012
- I have eczema of the eyelids, I googled obscure reasons for chronic dry eye and read an article on eczema and gluten after two weeks of no gluten it was all cleared up but then I had a beer and the symptoms started to come back. I have an appt for a gluten sensitivity test so I will see but it makes sense because of a family history of IBS and chrones disease. You should have your daughter tested just to rule it out.
  
  Comment by Veronica | March 30, 2013 | Reply
I am so happy I found this website.
I was just randomly looking for a “miracle” cure for my eye eczema & this website popped up – thank you.
So as I see, this is a rather common problem. I have been using 1% hydrocortisone cream on my eyelids, as prescribed by my family doctor. I tried not to use it too often. Every time I do, it causes an eye-stye. Apparently eczema is not enough for me..? 😉
Just like almost each one of you, I have a public job. I work as a law clerk for a busy real estate firm, and understandably I see a lot of clients, brokers, bankers etc, etc, etc. It’s quite unnerving sometimes when you talk to people and they stare just above your eye level.
I only have a problem with my left eyelid; isn’t this strange.
When it first happened I had allergy tests done almost immediately. I do have a cat and I was convinced and afraid that I just developed an allergy to my kitty. Luckily, the only allergy I have is to ragweed so cat’s still happily living at home.
I could not understand how the eczema actually works. Why during winter? But reading your website, it is clear – why didn’t I think of it?:) It’s dry.
I have noticed that my eyelid gets better after I put vitamin E cream on it. It’s thick, moisturizing and it is one of the best antioxidants out there that improves healing and protects our skin from pollution, dust and other elements that can damage our skin. And it does not hurt that it has anti-aging benefits. After all, vitamin E is used to treat psoriasis.
I would recommend that people with eye eczema or just perhaps with eczema, try vitamin E creams or ensure that they have vitamin E rich diets (fibers, nuts, avocados etc).

But it does surprise me that tomatoes and coffee can attribute to the eczema..
Those will be hard to resist..

I will certainly stay in touch..

Comment by Dagmara | November 22, 2010 | Reply
- Thank you for your comment! This only affected one eye for me for several years. It was not until 2009, that it turned into this. Vitamin E was soothing for me as well, but it is good to know the cause, too. Good luck!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 9, 2010 | Reply
- I cant believe what I am reading it sounds like my story……word by word…I just got over a 2 week steroid course to overcome my stye(My first stye ever) and my eczema is back the hydrocortisone isnt able to treat it and the moisturisers too arent working. I will go now to buy the vitmain E , any recommendations to what brand etc you have used…I live in Singapore in a very hot and humid climate and suffering with eczema for last 8 motnhs on both eyelids. Have been to dermtologists and am totally frustated> ;((
  
  Comment by mommysingapore | May 9, 2011 | Reply
  - I actually overused the Vitamin E and now am hyper sensitive to THAT now too 😦 However, in small doses, I’m good. Just make sure it is PURE and not filled with a bunch of preservatives. Have you seen an allergist? I wonder if it is an environmental or food allergy…
    
    Comment by Mariana | August 1, 2011
Hello-
I am now wondering if this is what I have. I have had scaly skin on eyelids for about 6 weeks, the scales are pretty much gone but the past week i have had severe swollen eyelids- Like i have been punched! The skin burns more than itches, but it is driving me crazy. Can’t stand not wearing makeup and not sure how much longer I can take this! Patch tested this week, negative. Wear contacts but use no preservative solutions. Do you think this is what it is?

Comment by Kristin | December 9, 2010 | Reply
- I would go see and allergist to see if you are having an allergic reaction to something in your life. Good Luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 9, 2010 | Reply
  - Thanks, but I forgot to mention that I have actually had the patch test done and it is negative! So, I don’t have any contact allergies! Going crazy…. dying to wear my makeup again!
    
    Comment by Kristin | December 10, 2010
I never had eczema in my whole life (my sister suffers from it). We bought a rug and I quickly realized it was the cause of my dry cough and itchiness. We got rid of the rug, but now I’m stuck with these eyelids. Any chance it goes away if you rid yourself of the allergen?

Comment by katie | February 19, 2011 | Reply
- Katie – I wonder if there is any leftover debris from the rug? Have you cleaned out your vents? That might help… Good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 1, 2011 | Reply
And so to quickly follow up, my eyelid eczema has now affected both of my eyes. The top lids and underneath so at times it does look like I have two black eyes.
I’ve been using a Protopic Ointment received by my doctor and when I use it, the eczema goes away within a day. But stop using it for a day and it comes back with a vegence.
Vitamin E gives a soothing relief, but I must say, it does not take the redness and the itchiness of the flaky skin away. It still looks horrible.

Comment by Dagmara | March 18, 2011 | Reply
So, something else to try that has really helped me. After going to an allergist and doing the stick test on my back, I found out that I was very allergic to dogs. Strange, I have lived with dogs all my life and my current dog is 13 and sleeps in our bed. While I still have a hard time believing that I am allergic to her, I did move her to her own bed. Dr. says that your body changes as you age and you can get new allergies (I am 39). So, I know take Zyrtec daily and I went on a light steroid cream called Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream .025% until things were cleared. Once cleared, I use daily EpiCeram which acts like a steriod but it is not. When I feel a little itch coming on, I will alternate every other day with the steriod cream day and night and then follow the next day with the Epiceram. Knock on wood, I haven’t had any major problems. I used the protopic and I thought it burned. This epiceram can almost be used like a lotion, I carry it in my purse and dab on my eyes sometimes. Just another idea…. good luck!

Comment by Krisin | March 19, 2011 | Reply
- Thanks and good luck!! 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 1, 2011 | Reply
- I have an appointment on Jan 22nd with a derm. My eyelid *eczema* (still don’t know if that’s what it is but all signs say so) started around Dec 6th. I have always dealt with minor skin irritations on my body but I usually just ignored them (maybe put some creams on them if they itched) and chalked it up to sensitive skin. But now that it is on my eyelids…wow…can’t ignore that. it has gone away twice in the last 7 weeks (where I felt normal enough to wear some makeup and not feel embarrassed) but for the most part I haven’t been wearing any makeup and have been hiding behind my glasses. i am miserable and depressed. i have no health insurance. if my derm suspects eczema I am going to ask for this EpiCeram. my friend is an optometrist and he told me I could use over the counter 1% cortisone on my eyelids to get it under control but not to use it all the time. If I can get it under control with that and then use this Epiceram to maintain….wow…my hopes are up a little. Thank you everyone for sharing your stories. It is nice to find people having the same issue. No one in my life has dealt with or seen this before so I feel like an outcast.
  
  Comment by Michelle | January 12, 2013 | Reply
  - Good Luck and I hope you figure out what is causing it!!
    
    Comment by Mariana | January 12, 2013
  - I also have eyelid eczema. I started with dry itchy patches on my upper eyelids in 2004. My dermatologist gave my some steroid cream and it did take it away. In 2008 it came back but this time I did some research into a natural treatment as I was uneasy putting the steroid cream near my eyes. I read that tea tree oil creams help with eczema. I purchased tea tree & E antiseptic creme by DermaE (purchased at whole foods). I applied the cream and almost immediately the itching subsided. I continued daily to apply the cream and within days the eczema was gone. I apply the cream once a week, under my makeup and it keeps the eczema away. I hope this helps all of you as it has for me!
    
    Comment by TeaTreeOil | January 21, 2013
All,
Have you tried being tested for gluten sensitivity? I have the same problem, and tested positive for gluten sensitivity, and since I went gluten-free, and have been working on healing my digestive tract, my eczema has gotten progressively much better – less frequent and less intense. It’s not an overnight change, but a couple of months gluten-free has made a big difference. I have also done some testing for other food allergies (which should also subside as the gut heals), and I am awaiting the results. You may have to find a Naturopath to do the testing, as the generalized tests that many doctors rely on do not always give a definitive result. It can be hard to find these guys (I live in Texas, so I totally get that!), but the Association of Naturopathic Physicians is a great source for finding them. It’s how I found my doctor, and I am so glad I did. It’s like having the best of both worlds – a doctor that actually understands the human body, and how to properly utilize the correct natural medicines to bring you back to health.
Here’s what I’ve learned. Eczema is an inflammatory response to something the body recognizes as an enemy, and could be external, such as cats and pollen, or internal, such as a particular food or caffeine. Gluten causes inflammation to the intestinal lining, causing a host of different problems, and causing enough permeability to allow larger particles that would normally be filtered out to leak out into the body. This causes an inflammatory response, which can manifest as allergies, fatigue, IBS, others symptoms too many to list. Turmeric (in capsules) seems to help as well, as it is an anti-inflammatory. Hope this helps, and best of luck to you all!

Comment by Marta | April 29, 2011 | Reply
- Marta – Mine wound up being cat allergies. But diet is a HUGE factor for allergies. Thank you for the info! 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 1, 2011 | Reply
After a year, I finally figured out what was causing my eyelid, and surrounding areas, eczema. With the recent H1N1 flu scare, hand sanitizers and bathroom pump soaps (such as those used at my work) increasingly used chemicals/alcohol to kill bacteria and viruses. After using these products, if I rubbed my eyes at all, the sanitizers/soaps would irritate my eyes– often making them tear up. This would lead to rubbing to reduce the tearing. All this rubbing in areas with already thing skin resulted in breaks in the skin. It wasn’t long before I looked like “rocky-the-raccoon”. Although I still have eczema on other parts of my body, my eyes have completely cleared up. This may not work for everyone, but it worked for me.

Comment by Ron | May 15, 2011 | Reply
I get on and off during the beginnings of summer, when the cooler weather switches up to hot. Ive been experiencing this since my junior year of high school. It usually starts with a soreness in my left eye near the inner corner. I unconsciously rub it in my sleep and wake up with a freakishly swollen eyelid. The area is red and scaly, swollen like I’ve been stung on the lid by a bee!!!

Although I haven’t had this for sometime (2 years…) since last week I have been battling with a worse than ever case of it!!

Now it’s both eyes, my right eye being the more severely afflicted. Inner comers, lower inner corner and high on my cheekbones are where it’s most itchy. Even the inner portion of my right eye’s tear duct is severely itchy! I try not to scratch and calm it down with ice. I dare not apply hydrocortisone anywhere near my eyes… So opt for baby oil or perfume free moisturizer. I thought it’d be gone by now… But it’s so hard to not scratch in your sleep!

I’m thinking of finally going to a dermatologist to get medication for this…

Currently I don’t wear makeup and I think this has to do with an allergic reaction to my eyelash curler. It’s a metal one… And I change out the pads often and disinfect the little contraption routinely. Sigh.

Comment by Michelle | June 13, 2011 | Reply
I have the same problem too. I’ve never had eczema on my eyelids before and it just seems to be getting worse. I am currently 5 1/2 months pregnant, and I think it is due to my pregnancy. It is so frutstrating because there is not much I can do with being pregnant – I can’t even take an allergy prick test to see what the cause is because it’s considered too abrasive. My allergist prescribed my Elidel, but everytime I stop using it my eczema comes back again. With the bags and wrinkles caused by my eczema, I’m tired of people telling me that I look tired and worn out. At 29 this is hurtful to my image.

Comment by Madison | July 7, 2011 | Reply
thank you for your site. I searched the internet back when i got this eyelid thing a few years ago. Dermatologist said it was psoriasis. How wrong he was. My eyelids swell shut and then when the swelling goes down, they droop and i feared i might need a eyelid lift if it didn’t go away. luckily it does, but this is awful. I find that cold compresses help with the itching and swelling. I think I might be allergic to some of my eyeshadows. Thinking of throwing them all out and starting over…washing makeup brushes and getting new sponges to see if that helps.

Comment by Jennifer | July 25, 2011 | Reply
I am also glad to have found this site. Every summer since my teen years I’ve had swollen eyelids off and on. This summer (I’m 46) has been the absolute worst though! I tried numerous things, some made it worst. Here is what has helped so far: “cooling” the itch with witch hazel on a cotton pad, applying aloe vera gel right from the leaf, allowing it to dry partially, then coating with vaseline/vit E/lanolin combo. After 4 weeks, I still have some eczema on the inner corner of one eye that I’m working on, but over-all this regime has resulted in swelling/itching/burning/dryness/flaking being 95% gone.

Comment by Monica | August 2, 2011 | Reply
- Hi Monica,
  I wish I could try that. I’m allergic to both lanolin and aloe vera. =(
  
  Comment by Bonnie Nowik Cohen | October 3, 2011 | Reply
Hi there everyone. My name is Jennifer and I am 30 years old and have lived with varying degrees of eczema since I was a small child. As a child I remember having horrible large itchy/red/flaky patches on the inside of my elbows and the backs of my knees. I could never stop the itching. My mother took me to a dermatologist who prescribed a topical corticosteroid that I remember looked white, shiny, and greasy. What I remember most, however, was that it stopped the itching and the eczematic areas cleared within a couple of days. After a few rounds of these incidents, my eczema lay dormant for a while until I was in high school and joined the swim team and also became a lifeguard at a local pool. The eczema returned but this time I had it on my hands including painful, itchy water-blisters that would pop and cause even more itching. I also developed quarter-sized dry scaly shiny patches all over my legs that lotion did NOTHING for. A return to the dermatologist proved both of these areas to be eczema and I was again prescribed a topical corticosteroid, a different concentration/mixture this time and again it cleared up with medication. The eczema on my hands and legs (and occasionally a few patches on my face) would return on and off for the next 5 years with the hands being the worst my first couple years out of college as a Registered Nurse. The frequent hand washing was absolutely terrible for my condition but there wasn’t a thing I could do about it. We also use alcohol foam to cleanse our hands between patients and I recall many incidences when I forgot about my eczema on my hands and would use the alcohol foam and my eyes would water from the pain and stinging to the point that people would ask me if I were crying! After a couple years the eczema simply disappeared and has been gone for 5 years. Unfortunately, now, at 30 years old. It has returned full-force. I believe much of it is due to the fact that I recently became a Hot Yoga enthusiast. Because I sweat so much during the classes and the sweat drips into my eyes and down my neck, etc. I have developed eczema on my eyelids (which I had only experienced one time before and had to get a specific corticosteroid “Elidel” that could be used on the face), and I have a huge red/flaky patch on my neck. I also have a nickel-sized spot on the inside of my right forearm and two nickel-sized spots on my right shin that have been there for a month and simply will not heal. I had to quit my job as a Travel RN in the NICU a year ago to care for a sick family member and am now having a TERRIBLE time finding work as many hospitals are working understaffed despite the nursing shortage because the economy is so bad. This is relevant because it means I do not have health insurance. I have a physician who was willing to write me a prescription for Elidel but without insurance it costs over $100 which I simply cannot afford right now. I have essentially run out of my emergency funds having not worked for the last year. I can’t even get a job as a waitress because I keep hearing that I am overeducated and they need someone who will stay and that I am a risk of leaving seeing as I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and would clearly take a nursing job over their waitressing job if given the chance. Ugh! Anyway, I am going to try the vitamin E oil on my eyelids and the other spots and hopefully things will get better. I eat incredibly healthy as it is, so I don’t think my diet is contributing. Any other recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for sharing your insight!

Comment by Jennifer | August 6, 2011 | Reply
I have been suffering with eczema on my eyelids for over thirty years and have been treated by several dermatologists who prescribed cortizone creams when my outbreaks became severe…I finally went to a new doctor because I could not open my eye and he told me I was probably allergic to one or more of five things – gold, make-up, nail polish, hair dye or shampoo…he referred me to another dermatologist for a thorough scratch test (given over the course of 5 days) and the results came in yesterday! I am highly allergic to gold (it does not affect the area where I am wearing the jewelry, just my eyelids) and I am also allergic to propylene glycol, a product found in many lotions, soaps, sunscreens, toothpaste, shampoos, makeups, hair dye, household products, etc. I am now in the process of eliminating these allergens from my life and hope that I can begin to finally put this behind me.

Comment by Shelley Fern | August 13, 2011 | Reply
- Hi Shelley-
  Wondering which patch test you had. I have had the standard one (T.R.U.E test I think it’s called)which tests about 30 or so common allergens. I went back after 1 or 2 days of wearing it so the results could be read. I know there is a much more intensive one that is very expensive that insurance doesn’t cover. Is this the one you did? The one I had tested positive for epoxy resin, formaldehyde, and thimerosal, so I’ve tried to really educate myself about things to avoid based on this, but I’m wondering if there is something else I’m not aware of because my eczema continues…
  
  Comment by Katrina | December 14, 2012 | Reply
I have had eyelid eczema for the past 6 months. It started a week or so after I had cataract surgery. I had the surgery in my left eye only but the eczema came on full force in both eyes. The eye doctor put me on a steroid cream for two weeks and had me taper off. It helped while I was using it but came back about the third day off. My primary physician said it was a fungus and prescribed nystatin which burned like crazy and made it worse. My eye doctor then prescribed protopic which, like the steroid cream, helps while I use it religously but if I forget a dose my eyes get inflamed overnight. I have been gluten free for about 3 months but it hasn’t made a difference. I have had cats for the past 20 years and hope I haven’t suddenly become allergic to them. And, when I say the protopic works I mean it helps, however my eyes always burn and are very red. I keep researching on line and hope to find a solution eventually.

Comment by Judi | September 5, 2011 | Reply
- Ugh! That sucks!! I think the biggest problem with diagnosis is that no doctor actually knows enough about what eczema really is and what to do about it … I had cats my whole life, and then suddenly after 34ish years I became allergic. 😦 I sure hope that is not hte case with you. I SO miss my kitties, but I am thankful I no longer deal with the painful eczema. Good luck!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 5, 2011 | Reply
For the first time ever I have eyelid eczema. It’s on my upper lids, itchy, burning and flaking. I wake and my lids are transulcent with swelling mostly at the lash line. It’s aggravating. Cats bother me and I’ve had to visit a home with a cat and little vacuuming at least two times a day sometimes four. I am beginning to think it is related to the cat and dust. My question, Mariana and whoever else cares to chime in, is would you see a dermatologist or an allergist first? I’d like to know what my allergies are and I do believe I am gluten sensitive since most of my edema in my extremities diminishes when I am gluten free. Then again I have other areas which I will not mention, ahem, that have insane itching and it’s been ongoing for over a year to the point of bleeding and nobody can figure out what is causing it or how to stop it. As you said in the blog it’s instinct to scratch an itch. Telling me to stop scratching is like asking me to stop breathing. I simply can’t I need relief. I can resist my eyelids by pressure and rubbing but not the other areas.

Comment by Elle | September 21, 2011 | Reply
- Ugh!! I would see an allergist first. I *think* a dermatologist will help with symptoms, but and allergist would help with finding the actual source of the problem.
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 21, 2011 | Reply
- Have you thought about Candida? With itching in those “other areas”, I would suspect a systemic yeast overgrowth, but the doctors will deny it and say it doesn’t exist.
  
  Nobody on this site has mentioned eye doctors. I woke up this morning with eyelid eczema which I’ve never had there; it’s mostly on my fingers. I went to the eye doctor and he gave me an ointment which has some cortizone product and antibiotic. He also put some prescription level allergy drops in my eyes and that really made my eyes feel better. I have all kinds of allergies and my asthma has been especially bad the past few weeks so I think I overloaded my system with bad foods this Thanksgiving and the eyelids is where it came out.
  
  Comment by Red | November 28, 2011 | Reply
  - I did a whole candida cleanse and it did nothing for this issue. For me, at least. However, this may be a great option for others suffering this same thing. Thank you! 🙂
    
    Comment by Mariana | November 28, 2011
- Yep, I also got eczema itching in “other” areas. It stopped, but I put an anti-itch cream on the area and it went away. Maybe changing my detergent helped. I have the eyelid eczema and Aquafor helps. I am going to try the Vitamin E oil on my lids too. It seems to flare in winter when I spend more time indoors. Benadryl helped when I had a whole face reaction one day. I am 58 and only have had this for two winters. I think internal causes such as certain foods cause allergic reactions though I have not yet discovered which ones. I have 2 chow chows but have had them for 12 years and this is a new development. Thanks so much for this blog. It has really helped me.
  
  Comment by Leslie | January 15, 2012 | Reply
I got the eyelid eczema from new rugs that I had in my apartment. Be aware if you’ve brought anything new into your house. I also get it when I put anything that has essential oils near my eyes. I would put on hand cream before bed, and then during the night, rub my eyes, causing it. When you remove the allergen, the lids will cure themselves. Hope this helps!

Comment by katie | September 21, 2011 | Reply
WOW! I am 32 yr old female. About 2 months ago I had a dry red patch under my left eye and i thought it was allergies. It kind of went away and now for the last 2 weeks, my 2 eye lids are bright red, super dry, cracked and its aweful. To add to this, my eyes started reacting (unknown cause) at the same time as my arm pits! Its so bizarre this is the only places where I have eczema. I too, like many of you have kids. My oldest daughter was born in 2003 with eczema. Literally as soon as she was born. Bloody crib sheets , eczema head to toe, the whole bit. So I have been dealing with this for 8 yrs. I never knew if she had ingerited this from myself or my ex-husbnad….now we know.
I’ve tried my daughter’s steroid creams bu they burn. I’ve trued vaseline but it does nothing. Now i am using cold towels just top relieve the itching. I’m going to try to go the natural way – perhaps change my diet (I could stand to lose a few pounds – lol) actually my daughter has a narrow band UVB phototherapy machine we had bought since her excema was that bad – I may try it. I just have to read up on it first – not sure if its safe for the eye lids.
But , thank you for this web site and all of your comments. I dont feel alone now. Please keep sharing!

Comment by Cynthia | September 25, 2011 | Reply
- Omg…this site is amazing! I just had the armpit problem over the summer and thought I was a freak!!! t took me forever to finally get it under control, but that was terrible!!! I didn’t even think to associate it to eczema or allergies??? I finally got that under control and then just New Years started getting the red, patchy, itches on my eyelid. Started small on my left and now is on my right….I woke up this morning and it looked like I was punched in the eye!!! You suggest an allergist over a dermatologist???
  
  Comment by Wendy | February 20, 2012 | Reply
I’m allergic to lanolin and aloe vera. I wish I could try something like that.

Comment by Bonnie (fletchen) | October 3, 2011 | Reply
I think i have this too..its itchy red flaky and burning! i use Cetaphil on it but that makes it burn for like 10 minutes. i just got ferrets in june and thats around when it started. could that have something to do with it??

Comment by chloe | October 11, 2011 | Reply
My eyelid eczema has returned after being under control for 5 years. I have controlled it by using Aquaphor to keep my eyelids and face moisturized. Rinsing pollen and cat dander out of my eyes with cool water was also essential. Now I’m going back to the method that cleared up the eczema before: moisturizing with Aquaphor, absolute avoidance of rubbing my eyes, and a tiny dot of Sarna under each eyebrow. Sarna is a non-steroid, anti-itch lotion with menthol that cools the surrounding skin. Until I found it, I could not stop touching and rubbing my eyes. You can find Sarna by asking a pharmacist for it.

Comment by Christina | October 28, 2011 | Reply
I am so glad to find your site. I am aa 64 year old woman who has never had a problem. I developed eczema on my right foot about a year ago. That has gone away. I woke up one morning a month ago and looked like the picture you show. I went to the doctor and they gave me predinsone for 3 days. Got better then came back within a couple of days of being off the pills. She gave me 3 more days. Now it is back again after a couple of weeks. The only thing I can think of different is being around cigerette smoke. Does that affect anayone I do not feel very confident with the doctor I went to.

Comment by Lynn T | November 3, 2011 | Reply
I had excema as a kid, but always on my fingers, never on my face. Right after my wedding (I got a pedicure with probably cheap nail polish which I never otherwise would do) one eyelid gradually got red, then flaky. I just tried lotions, but no cure, and gradually the other eyelid got it too. Finally I asked at my healthfood store, and the lady there said her little toddler has excema and this one cream really helps. I hate to sound like a commercial, but after trying various other lotions, this one really did it. Arbordoun’s Calendula Cream. I used it every day for a while, and now I’m down to using just once every 3 or 4 or 5 days, when the lids start to feel a little dry. So it’s not a permanent cure, but there are never visible signs — only I know that I have to put it on when it starts to feel a little dry. You can google that cream. It’s not even expensive and I still have the same small size litle jar from over a year ago. Good luck!

Comment by Barb Macon | November 5, 2011 | Reply
Thank you for doing this. It has really helped me.

Comment by Gary Runevitch | November 22, 2011 | Reply
- I am glad this blog could help.
  
  Comment by Mariana | November 28, 2011 | Reply
Here I am, another sufferer. I’ve had it the last 3 winters. Why does it only flare up in winter? And I was checked for allergies; if I wore nickel watch I’d get a mild rash, but that’s it – no other allergies. WTF?

Comment by Shannon | November 24, 2011 | Reply
- Hi Shannon, I *think* that it was worse for me in the Winter because I was inside with my cats (the allergen) so much more than in the Summer. I have no idea what it could be for you. 😦 Good luck !
  
  Comment by Mariana | November 28, 2011 | Reply
Note, after having eyelid eczema for two years, mine is completely gone (at least from the eyelids, but is doing better every where else as well). I found that there was a likely external culprit and internal culprit associated with my eczema. The external issue was the hand sanitizer. This type of product is an irritant to skin as it is made up of alcohol and often a gel like substance to make sure it adheres to your skin. Thus if you use the product and then rub an eye, you’re highly likely to be irritated. There are likely many soaps and, for you women, perfumes and cosmetics that may cause the same irritant issues. I have avoided these types of products (e.g. bathroom soaps in public places) like the plague, and ‘viola’ eyelid eczema gone! On the internal front, I finally went to a naturopath. While I don’t agree with everything they believe, they did put me on a number of targeted vitamins and supplements. Eczema, if it doesn’t have a direct external cause such as an irritant, is really an autoimmune response. As we age our bodies may not absorb nutrients in the correct amounts, and many people simply have deficits (such as Vitamin D which most people are deficient in). By having the correct internal functioning, our body is less likely to be triggered into attacking itself. This seems to make sense to me, and the results have been very positive in terms of significantly reducing my general eczema symptoms. I hope this helps someone!

Comment by Ron | November 30, 2011 | Reply
I’ve always had mild eczema on my hands and feet but never my face. I was just married this past October and 2 days before my wedding I got my first flare up of eye eczema. YIKES! I went to the doctor immediately thinking it was a sinus infection causing the swelling. I was able to exfoliate and cover the discoloration for the wedding and lucked out to wake up with minimal swelling that day but it has come back twice since then. Initially I thought it could be an allergic reaction to a new makeup product but after discontinuing use it has still returned. I use aquaphor and aveeno daily moisturizer on my face when I have flare ups. I wanted to know what other people have found as the most common foods that cause flare ups. When I was a kid my doctor suggested that dairy products could possibly be the cause to my extreme dry skin and eczema but I haven’t noticed a difference when I consume dairy vs. when I don’t. What do you all find causes flare ups the most?

Comment by Jenna Hall | December 9, 2011 | Reply
- My flare ups were a result of my allergies to cats. Specifically, their dander and litter box.
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 15, 2011 | Reply
I am a student in Chinese medicine.

I got eyelid eczema about a month ago.
-I have been using pure vitamin E oil topically (with an olive oil base).
-I take Omega-3 fish oils to reduce inflammation systemically.
-And I have been drinking Ju Hua tea (Chrysanthemum flower tea) every day.

It got a lot better right away and is hardly noticeable now.

Here’s some info on Ju Hua.
http://www.yinyanghouse.com/theory/herbalmedicine/ju_hua_tcm_herbal_database

Good luck.

Comment by Portia | December 10, 2011 | Reply
I too suffer from eyelid eczema and am completely overwhelmed with where to start to combat this. In January, I’m going to start a nightshade free/gluten free diet although my skin allergy tests did not reveal an allergy to gluten. I am highly allergic to ragweed, birch, dust and a host of environmental allergens. Please keep the comments coming!

Michele

Comment by Michele | December 15, 2011 | Reply
Yes. My eye eczema was purely from an allergy to a rug that we recently bought. I would really say you should look around for what could be giving you an actual physical allergy.

Comment by Katie | December 15, 2011 | Reply
- Yep! Once cats were out of my life I was all better! 😦
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 15, 2011 | Reply
I’m not sure yet which, if any, foods exacerbate my eczema but I have recently gone gluten free and dairy free and I’m still considering if there are any differences.
What I have discovered is that there is a product that I found at Whole Foods Market that works as well or better than the Protopic Cream that the doctor had prescribed. The paper insert for Protopic mentions that it has caused cancer. Also it says not to be used near the eyes so I was trying lots of other things that might soothe my eyelids. I tried olive oil, sea buckthorn oil, hemp oil and two other products I found at Whole Foods. One of which worked somewhat but not enough for me to quit the Protopic.
The product I found that has really helped , (and I have no connection with), is CALIFORNIA BABY Calming BOTANICAL MOISTURIZING CREAM. At first I had to apply tiny amounts every couple of hours. After about a week I began cutting back and now, (about six weeks later, I use it usually about 3 times a day. Morning, afternoon and bedtime. I haven’t used the Protopic since November 3rd and it is now December 15.
About two weeks ago I was researching California Baby on line and discovered they had another product with calendula that according to the reviews said really helped control eczema. I tried it and it was just too strong and irritated my eyelids so for now I’m sticking to California Baby Calming.
I honestly have no connection to any of these products as I’m a 70 year old women that developed this eyelid eczema about 18 months ago after cataract surgery. I hope it helps others and if so we can spread the word.

Comment by Judi | December 15, 2011 | Reply
Just diagnosed today with lid eczema. It’s been 3 years and different diagnosis and after reading these comments and seeing the photos I thnik this time the Dr might be right. Where to start though on how to bring this under control???. today my eyelids look like inflamed reptile skin. Pam

Comment by pamela van parys | December 29, 2011 | Reply
- I found that my eczema was an allergic reaction to cats 😦 Your body can respond to allergens in many, many ways. Eczema is one way. Have you seen an allergist?
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 9, 2012 | Reply
I am a 54 year old female who has eczema all her life. I’ve been through good times and then some very,very bad times. About 4 years ago we “acquired” 3 cats. Didn’t really notice it at first, but eczema gradually got worse and worse…It was to the point where I was desperately miserable. Put the cats outside…eczema gradually improved. For the last year, my eczema has been tolerable, not great, but tolerable.
Anyway, recently (for about a month)I’ve have had a time with my eyes. I think it may have started when my sister and her pomeranian came, both Thanksgiving and Christmas, for several days. Itchy, red, swollen, wrinkly bags under my eyes. Very attractive. I noticed last night that my eyelids were growing sideways A sign of blepharitis. I’m sure this condition is another ‘fun thing’ associated with my eczema, (along with osteopenia from years of oral steroids) After much research, I found out that part of the problem with eczema eyelid inflammation is the antihistamines we are taking for relief. Many of these drugs dry up our eczema and also our eyes. This leaves them susceptible to allergens getting in and not being washed out. So, I started using natural tears all day and Genteal ointment (OTC) at night. (my eyes always seemed most swollen in the mornings.) I quit using my ceiling fan which can dry your eyes out. I also washed all bedding on ‘sanitary setting’. Any bedding I had when the cats were indoors had be gone. I also do a nasal rinse twice a day followed with steroid nose spray.
I also use pantay (steroid eyedrops), but now realizing that this is drying my eyes out so trying to cut this out. My eyes are much better today.
As far as treating my body eczema, I only use Aveeno products and steroid cream ONLY on problem spots. I think foods greatly affect eczema symptoms (even though I have never found a dermatologist who agrees). To improve my digestive health, I take a probiotic everyday. I avoid shellfish and tomatoes and nuts. I also try to follow an anti- inflammatory diet.
I am schedules for an eyelift in two and a half weeks and am concerned about this recent eczema eyelid situation. I’m doing everything I can to eliminate this problem before then.
This is a great blog, with very helpful suggestions. To all those out there suffering, keep your chin up and find the right treatment for you.

Comment by Teresa | January 8, 2012 | Reply
- GOOD LUCK!!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 9, 2012 | Reply
  - Thanks, Great blog!!!
    
    Comment by Teresa | January 10, 2012
It’s so nice to have found this site and to know I’m not the only one with this problem! I’m 27 and have had eczema my whole life (although it has been dormant for years at a time) but I never got it on my face until last year when I had a horrible outbreak that started around my eyes and lips and then spread so my whole face was puffy and raw, similar to some of your pictures. I’ve seen several dermatologists, been patch tested for contact allergies at one, a naturopath and an acupuncturist. My patch test came back with only minor reactions to cobalt, fragrance and certain categories of hydrocortizones. My eyelids started acting up again a couple days ago, getting red and puffy, so now I’m thinking of seeing an actual allergist. Do you have any suggestions on what to talk to them about?

As far as what I have done that has helped ease my discomfort and improve symptoms a bit for anyone else out there: topically I use Eucerin cream followed by a layer of Aquafor on affected areas, which seems to really help lock in the moisture and protect as well. For allover face lotion I use Cetaphil Restoraderm (no ad here, just really love this stuff) I also take EFA pills (fish or flax seed oil), vitamin D and a probiotic, and drink as much water as I can. I just started trying Vitamin E oil on my lids and am going to try adjusting my diet for a while to see if that helps, crossing my fingers! When I was younger I was given the topical steroid Elidel (and maybe another one I can’t remember), but they never helped all that much, and I’m a strong believer that steroids just cover up the problem, they don’t get to the root of it…so I’m trying to avoid using them.

Thanks so much for the great site! Just knowing other people have gone through this really helps me feel more “normal,” and stay determined to keep searching for answers.

Comment by Jocelyn | January 12, 2012 | Reply
- Thank you for your comment! Ugh. I hate steroids, but they can be necessary sometimes. I’m convinced that most outbreaks of eczema are some form of allergic reaction. Mine was an allergy to cats. Good luck!! 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 12, 2012 | Reply
Something must have changed to make you flare up. Maybe your environment, new house, carpet, or pets. Or something topical, new lotion, make up, etc.. Or have you changed your diet any? Eating more tomatoes, shellfish or nuts??? I have struggled with eczema off and on for 54 years and feel as if I’m always in detective mode…Good luck!

Comment by Teresa | January 12, 2012 | Reply
- Thanks! I limited my diet to chicken, brown rice and certain fruits and vegetables for about a week and now it is almost completely gone, so I am thinking I may have developed a food allergy. I still can’t pinpoint exactly what it is so I’m going to an allergist in a couple weeks, hopefully they will find something!
  
  Comment by Jocelyn | January 19, 2012 | Reply
  - Good luck!
    
    Comment by Teresa | January 20, 2012
After visiting my sisters for the holidays I found I had eczema under one eye. They do have three dogs between them but i have been exposed to their dogs before.
I think I have (hopefully) narrowed the issue to two possible culprits. #1 The trial size lotion I bought when visiting (that I used on my face) #2 I changed my can of bathroom air freshener (to the natural orange oil spray) a day ago and my eye seems better today.
As for the person who commented about the under arm rash. I had it so bad last year I went to the doctor. She prescribed creme that did not work…it actually made it worse. I changed deoderent, laundry soap..nothing worked. It did not go completely away until I stopped using the cheap disposable razors. I still buy throw away razors but now only the expensive ones. Hope this helps.

Comment by Elli | January 19, 2012 | Reply
Oh i seem to have deleted my previous comment…this is good!

I have had cats for about 45 years and i developed an eczema-like blister on my right eyelid only a few days ago. It does not itch or cause any discomfort.

Comment by Victoria | January 19, 2012 | Reply
- I have had cats my whole life and then one day I was suddenly allergic. 😦
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 19, 2012 | Reply
No one mentioned stress as one possible factor for causing eyelid eczema flare ups. I experienced this super annoying skin problem for the first time in my life. I went to the walkin health center where the doctor prescribed a “medrol” pack (methylprenisone is the generic name) and I was fine when I was on the pack. Two days after I got off the pack, the red itchy swollen puffy eyes returned complete with bags under my eyes and wrinkly lines on the bags. Simply awful, disgusting and unsightly. I will try everything mentioned here in the blogs – aloe Vera, vitamin E lotion, Cetaphil, Aquafor, omega 3 fish oil, chrysanthemum teas, and the ARBORDOUN’s calendula cream. And since I think stress could be one factor, I would recommend all to try rest and relaxation techniques such as meditation to calm down our over active immune system which turns to attack us.

Comment by Ivy Kao | January 22, 2012 | Reply
- Thank for your comment and good luck! I did mention stress in a few other posts, but my eczema wound up being allergy related. However, reducing stress always helps!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 22, 2012 | Reply
I cannot tell you how happy I am that I found this blog. I have been suffering and experimenting with treatments for eyelid eczema for over 20 years. I’m exhausted from it and yesterday I think I gave myself a minor case (if there is such a thing) of retinal detachment from itching too vigorously. Thank God the vision changes resolved themself in a couple of hours. Anyhow, I’m a 1% cortisone user (OTC) now. I too am worried about the skin thinning, but the itching cracking and bleeding is too painful. I have two dogs and no cats anymore. I do not put my hands near my face if I have touched my dogs. I stopped using makeup and fingernail polish. Someone told me there is a chemical in fingernail polish that can irritate my eyes. I use a very gentle facial cleanser that does not make my eyes water. If I tear up for any reason my eczema flairs up. I’ve tried Aquafor and vaseline and that seems to make it worse for me. I’m going to try some Vitamin E oil and staying away from tomatoes and nuts. I’m also considering going vegetarian. Good luck to us all and thank you again for starting this blog. My doctors think I’m just not washing my face good enough…duh.

Comment by Lillian | January 26, 2012 | Reply
- Lillian – Good luck! 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 29, 2012 | Reply
- I have had the same problem sometimes looking like I had black eyes and up until recently no real solution, but then I started on a 90 day health challenge and with in 30 days it was completely gone, I had no idea it was going to get rid of my eczema but it did! I have struggled with this issue for over 5 years on a daily basis and nothing has worked until now, it was very frustrating so Im pretty excited now! the product has a 30 day money back guarantee so if you dont like it you can return it for a full refund, its based on getting fit but got rid of my eczema as well! you can get it at http://www.changeinninety.com I used the Core kit, I dont know how it worked, but it did so Im sharing with everyone! hope this helps out.
  
  Comment by Aaron | February 1, 2012 | Reply
I found out the other day that it could be the dye in eyeshadows, especially the blue and purple when it is placed directly on the eyelid. Been dealing with this for months and stopped using the eyeshadow and it’s quieting down tremendously. It’s okay to use the blue family in the crease – the lid is the issue. I wonder if the people who’ve been commenting find this could be true. Good luck and yes – reducing stress is important no matter what!

Comment by Caryn Rosenthal | January 29, 2012 | Reply
Stupid doctors…Good luck!!!

Comment by Teresa | January 29, 2012 | Reply
Hello I was looking for ways to soothe my daugther’s eyelids and this popped up. My daughter has eczema all over her ears, eyelids, and scalp and the medication is doing nothing and it is only getting worse

Comment by christina | January 30, 2012 | Reply
I’ve had such bad bouts with eyelid eczema… last year I was traveling when a bout of eczema started and I ended up in the hospital fora sever eye infection do to the eczema inflammation. I’ve been having a lot of luck with Aveeno Eczema Therapy lotion which can be found at the pharmancy or grocery store in the lotion section or in the baby products area. Since I’ve started using the Aveeno Eczema Therapy lotion I’ve only had 1 bout with Eyelid eczema which has been a huge improvement (I used to have a flare up about once a month).

Aveeno Eczema Therapy has sincerely worked for me!

Comment by Meg | February 1, 2012 | Reply
I read that eczema is the itch that becomes a rash – how true! I have been suffering with patches of eczema since the early 90s. It appears on my elbows and in the bend of my elbow, behind my knees, in my left ear, on the back of my neck just below my hairline (which has spread to below my left ear) and on the skin of top and bottom eye lids. Nothing seemed to work, creams make it red and raised and burning. I started to use Scalpicin (1% liquid hydrocortisone) and it really helps to aleviate the itching and the rash does go away after a few days of constant use. I put the liquid on my finger and tap it on my eye lids. It does get in my eyes occassionally which burns like crazy. A doctor told me that use of hydrocortisone around the eyes will eventually cause eye problems (glaucoma and/or cateracts – cannot remember which) also, it thins the skin and will cause wrinkles — just what I needed ugly, scaly, red wrinkled skin! I started researching natural remedies. For the itching I found that a healthy salt like sea salt or Himilayan salt disolved in warm water and applied with a clean cloth helps relieve itiching. This works wonderfully and I have noticed that the redness and scales have lessened as well. Still looking for that miracl herb or salve that will make it go away, I know it is out there somewhere!

Comment by Maryann | February 5, 2012 | Reply
- Please try pure unrefied cocoa butter. It has helped me tremendously. It’s very reasonably priced ($12.50 a pound on Ebay) and there are no side effects except you smell like chocolate (at least I haven’t had any). I will tell you who I purchased from if you are interested. There are several dealers to buy from. You don’t have to buy an entire pound if you don’t want to. Good luck
  
  Comment by Jan | February 13, 2012 | Reply
I have been reading all of your comments and I’m just as perplexed as everyone else. I’ve tried everything from Vitamin E oil to Preperation H, stopped using candles or scented anything in my home, through out all the makeup and brushes and started over, used hypo-allergenic shampoo and conditioner, you name it. I use makeup only occassionally. Nothing has helped except the Protopic that I am forced (and hate) to use. One thing I haven’t done is allergy testing. It’s costly and quite frankly, I figure I’m allergic to everything so it wouldn’t help me much. I haven’t ruled it out yet.

One thing I do have is extremely dry skin which can be a definate trigger. I am now using all natural shea butter soap that I found at Drug Emporium for $3.00 and I have also ordered 100% organic unrefined Shea butter and cocoa butter to use as a moisturizers. So far, I haven’t had a flare up in over a week – which is unusual. Cocoa butter is used to treat eczema and it doesn’t have any side effects – except you smell like chocolate. You can purchase the butters online. I got mine through Ebay. There are several dealers with very reasonable prices. I also have other skin problems. Right now I have a condition called nummular eczema. I treated myself for ringworm for 4 months before I finally gave up and went to the dermatologist. Some day I might learn to quit diagnosing myself but I don’t have any confidence in doctors.

Oh yes, about the awful itching. I have been using Dermarest Psoriasis medicated skin treatment gel . It has 3% salicylic acid. At first it burns like the devil, but it stops the itch for me. Because it is a gel, it dries quickly. I don’t put it where it will get into my eyes – just on the upper part down to the crease using a Q-tip. I DID THIS AGAINST THE ADVICE OF MY DERMATOLOGIST, but I was in agony. I recommend that you ask your doctor before you go there.

Wishing us all luck………………

Comment by Jan | February 7, 2012 | Reply
Oh, I forgot to mention that I have been using a pot of boiling water and a towel to steam my face-like you would for sinus congestion. This has helped a great deal. After 10 minutes I pat dry (or not) and apply moisturizer. I was using Burt’s Bees but am going to try the cocoa butter next time.
Jan

Comment by Jan | February 7, 2012 | Reply
I have eyelid edema. A friend had it under her eyes. She tried cold pressed castor oil. She applied it in the morning and at night on her eyes. It took about six months to go away. You can buy this at the health food store. You have to be willing to walk around with shiny eyelids because this is oil. Anyways I am willing to try anything. I just started having this in the past year and can’t imagine suffering with this any longer.

Comment by Angela | February 13, 2012 | Reply
- I have been using the PURE UNREFINED cocoa butter religiously and I am going on 3 weeks without a flare up. I use it as a night cream and sometimes during the day if I plan on being at home. It does get a little greasy if you use too much. I have reduced the steaming to about twice a week. So far, so good. No redness, no swelling, no itching and I promise – what wrinkles I had are less noticible. I am 60 years old. My daughters told me that in spite of my skin problem issues I have beautiful skin that looks like it is very hydrated. YES!!! Thank you, God, for helping me. (I paid $12.50 for a pound of cocoa butter.)
  
  Comment by Jan | February 13, 2012 | Reply
Thank you for the info — a friend also mentioned cocoa butter so I think that will be my next purchase! I am pretty sure I saw it at a local natural health food store, in small sized jars so I don’t have to purchase a huge tub to try it out. Smelling like chocolate is not necessarily a bad thing (except it will make hungry!) 🙂

Comment by Maryann | February 13, 2012 | Reply
- Please let me know if it works for you. That is the only thing that I am using on my face besides the Nubian Heritiage Shea Butter soap. I am no longer using the Protopic or Dermarest. I hope it works for you, too.
  
  Comment by Jan | February 13, 2012 | Reply
- I am currently experimenting with unrefined coconut oil. I have heard it helps treat eczema which I have been dealing with for the past 5 years with no luck for treatment. I bought a tub from Whole Foods for about $12.99. I have been using it for the past three days as a night cream and can already tell a difference. Plus you can use it for a conditioning treatment for your hair or as a moisturizer for your skin. If this works, I can definitely do this as a daily routine. I am really hoping to find something where I do not need a prescription and actually treats the eczema.
  
  Comment by Jen | June 4, 2013 | Reply
Great information! I developed what I think is eyelid eczema about 6 weeks ago. My eye lids get quite inflamed and slightly scaly. My underneaths were swollen for a good week. I’ve been trying all kinds of different products and I’ve eliminated certain things from my daily regime as well.

Today I purchased Aveeno for Eczema but my lids became inflamed. So I washed it off with Johnson’s Baby Head to Toe Wash and then put some Baby Vaseline on with a Q Tip.

My doctor has sent off a referral letter for allergy testing, and I think I’ll go back and ask him to refer me to a dermatologist as well.

I’ve tried Benadryl, prescription strength antihistamine drops, gel eye drops, coconut oil, olive oil … the list goes on and on. What I’ve noticed here that I really like is the use of cocoa butter and vitamin E.

I really hope everybody finds relief for their eczema!

Comment by Janice Lowry | February 20, 2012 | Reply
I’ve posted before about chronic eyelid eczema and there were some great suggestions about cocoa butter and vitamin E. Tried both but unfortunately my eyes became more sore and inflamed instantly by both products. I have gone back to using liquid Scalpicin (1% hydrocortisone) which I apply very cautiously with a Q-tip only the dry scaly patches on and around my eye lids, being careful not to get it in my eyes especially since it stings. The itching stops immediately and the rash starts to clear up within hours, consistent use for a few days clears it up completely. I am not recommending scalpicin for the eyes because it is definitely not made for use there and hydrocortisone can damage the eyes, but it is the ONLY product that clears up my eczema. I also use it on patches on my neck, ear, hand and elbow. I moisturize my entire eye area with Avon Moisture Therapy hand cream. It is the ONLY cream I can use without any redness or burning and believe me I have tried every cream on the market. It is very puzzling that this skin disease seems to be caused by a variety of allergens and it also reacts differently to treatments, depending on the person. I hope everyone is able to find a treatment that will bring them relief, this is difficult to deal with on any part of the body but it is especially horrible on the eyelids.

Comment by Maryann Lang | February 22, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Maryann, I haven’t tried the cocoa butter or the vitamin E yet and I don’t think I will just yet. I’m afraid to put anything on my lids other than the .5% hydrocortisone. I realize it’s not recommended for eyelids but I’m like you in that I use it because its the ONLY thing that works for me right now. I’m tempted to try the Avon Moisture Therapy hand cream though. But, I’ll probably wait until after I’ve seen the allergist. As you can all understand I’m soooo paranoid of having another flare up.
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | February 22, 2012 | Reply
Hey Janice,
I had the same issues with my Eyelids for 5 years, I had tried everytihing with minimal success. I started drinking some health shakes and taking vitamins and my eczema went away and hasnt come back its been over 6 months now. I dont know what product it is whether it be the skakes or the vitamins but Im not stopping either lol. All I know is it worked for me. you can get them at http://www.Vilife.co the vitamins I take are called the Vi-pak. hope this helps 🙂

Comment by Aaron | February 22, 2012 | Reply
Hi Janice: I tried OTC hydrocortisone cream and found that whatever is in the cream caused increased flair ups, the liquid Scalpicin is the only formuation I can use so far. It has a menthol-like sensation which stings a bit but goes away quickly– the inert ingredients are not listed on the bottle so I am not sure what causes the stinging, but it does not cause redness or swelling. I don’t know what made me try the Moisture Therapy, probably desperation. My theory is if your skin is healing and going back to normal don’t do anything new to disburb it so I understand your reluctance to try it.

I was seeing an allergist 2 years ago and tested positive for cats and dust mites — I have 3 cats and I am sure many more dust mites 🙂 — the cats I won’t get rid of and the dust mites I can’t get rid of (totally). The allergist did not address the rash issues (which was my main reason for going to him), other than to tell me to use hydrocortisone and he prescribed meds for my nasal issues. The prescription meds were $$ and did not work any better than Benadryl so I take OTC store brand Benadryl to help with my nasal allergies and it seems to help clam the itching a bit too. Hopefully your allergist will have better insight into effective treatments.

Comment by Maryann Lang | February 22, 2012 | Reply
- Wow! I’m just so amazed every time I read a reply that what works for one doesn’t work for another, that every one of us seems to have our own unique problem but it’s the same disease. Isn’t that bazarre? I’m completely at a loss other than I know what works for me and what doesn’t, for the moment. I hate using the hydrocortisone but holy crap, it brings me comfort. I’ve had two good ‘eye’ days now and I plan on having many more.
  
  I like your theory Maryann. I’ll stick to it until I see a specialist. I’m anxious to find out if it’s allergy related or stress related. I’m hoping it’s allergies because then I can at least try to get rid of the problem(s) but if it’s stress that’ll be a bit more difficult.
  
  I also use an OTC store brand allergy med but only when needed. I don’t know that it even helps. My optometrist gave me gel drops that I stopped using because I think it made the situation worse. The best thing for me right now is the .5 hydrocortisone and baby wash. I swear by the baby wash. It’s actually something I’ll use for life now considering it’s got no perfume etc so it HAS to be a lot better for our skin than any of the other perfumed cleaners, in MHO.
  
  I’ll have to check our pharmacies here for Scalpicin. Are you in the U.S.? I’m in Canada and I haven’t heard of that product before. If it isn’t a steroid I might decide to give it a try. 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | February 23, 2012 | Reply
Oh, and here is another peice of the puzzle regarding the possible genetic link mentioned by the blog owner — my Dad started to get eczema around one eye and on his knuckles right before he retired from being a mechanic for over 40 years. The Dr. told him he was reacting to motor oil and gasoline. His last year or so of work he had to work outdoors so the fumes would not be so strong. He was prescribed Kenalog cream and it completely cleared up — he also retired and move to FL so he was no longer exposed daily to motor oil and gasoline. My neice has skin problems, mainly hives and sensitivity to creams etc. and my daughter has itchy skin and bumpy skin on her arms but neither have had chronic eczema to date.

Comment by Maryann Lang | February 22, 2012 | Reply
Amazing how this awful disease affects so many people and they can’t find a cure for it. It seems that what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. Vitamin E did nothing for me except make me greasy. Any steriod can cause glaucoma and cataracts. I am already high rist for glaucoma so that’s not an option for me. Besides, as soon as I quit using it, it came back. The long term effects of Protopic are unknown. I am now almost 4 weeks without a flare up and all I am using is pure, organic, unrefined cocoa butter and sometimes organic shea butter. I pray that I have found my fix and I pray that all who have this stuff will find theirs. This is a miserable, painful disease that needs more research.

Comment by Jan | February 22, 2012 | Reply
- I’m glad to hear that you are on 4 weeks with no flare up. Phew! What a relief that must be for you. I’m tempted to try the cocoa butter but I’m reluctant to possibly induce another flare up so I think I’ll leave things the way they are, for the moment. 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | February 23, 2012 | Reply
Hi Janice: Scalpicin is a liquid form of hydrocortisone 1% the bottle does not list what the base ingredient is (the box may list it but I threw it away). It is manufactured in the USA and advertised for scalp itch. I am sure you can find it online. I started to use it on eczema at the base of my hairline. Funny but although I was very bothered by that rash, I am now thankful for it because I would have never thought of trying Scalpicin on my eyelids if I had not purchased it for the rash on my scalp!

Comment by Maryann Lang | February 23, 2012 | Reply
- Thanks Maryann. I’ve been free of the eczema for a few weeks now and just recently was diagnosed with acute anxiety. So the prickling of the scalp is/was a symptom of the anxiety. A girlfriend told me eczema can be a precursor to anxiety. I’m still waiting to hear from the allergist to set up an appointment for allergy testing which could be the base of all my problems.
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | March 9, 2012 | Reply
BTW — I have been eye-rash free for 2 days now! First time in many months!

Comment by Maryann Lang | February 23, 2012 | Reply
- Awesome!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | February 23, 2012 | Reply
I want to share with people, what saved me from the eczema of the eye! I usually only had a few flare-ups a year,which only lasted a few weeks. Until one bad occurance that never went away and lasted for 6months. I tried over the counter creams and lotions before I finally went to the doctor. My doctor determined that it was indeed ‘eczema of the eye’ and gave me a prescription. I went to the pharmacy and thank God for the wonderful girl working there that day! She felt bad for me that the prescription was $64.00 per tiny tube. She told me to instead try Cortizone Cream and Neosporin mixed together ( because they contained the same ingredients, and cost aprox. $7.00 instead! ). You mix equal parts of the two together and rub it on the affected area. I swear in 5 days it was gone! ..Also, I have been fortunate to not have had a real problem with it again in 2+ years. If i notice the slight indication that it is coming back, I put the CORTIZONE and NEOSPORIN on and its gone! Hope this works for someone else too!!!

Comment by Renee | February 29, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Renee,
  What brands of cortizozone cream and neosporin did you use? (What did you buy?) I want to make sure I am using the correct ingredients because I really want to try this remedy.
  Thanks!
  
  Comment by SD | March 14, 2013 | Reply
go to a tanning bed and your ecema will dissapear trust me

Comment by b | March 3, 2012 | Reply
- That is interesting!
  
  Comment by Mariana | March 4, 2012 | Reply
- This can work for some people with eczema, either because of the UV or the vitamin D or both. My friend had a horrible eczema flare up a couple years ago, I believe on her hands, and tanning was the only thing that gave her relief. But if you’re not a fan of all the bad side effects of UV rays, I would try taking vitamin D supplements first, they seem to help me!
  
  Comment by Jocelyn | March 5, 2012 | Reply
wow! I too like yourself and many other’s who are blogging, have discovered to have eyelid & neck eczema. Just started the winter of 2010, when I was going through the stresses a seperation bring and the quality of air at work is horrendous from how hot & dry the heat is at my work place. I too have a extreme off the charts allergy to cats, along with other environmental and food allergies. I only discovered them, because my oldest daughter who is soon to be 8 has been battling also with off the charts extreme peanut allergies since she was 3 years old and now recenlty discovered we both also have environmental allergies. We were both started on “allergy shots” I’m glad that on her end she did not have to start with the “Rush treatment” that I have had to undergo for 3 weeks now. I believe my allergist is trying to tackle those allergies 1st to later tackle the eczema, but I have been getting at least 2-3 outbreaks/week this winter its been horrible, I try not to scratch and most of the time I am successful, but at night while I sleep well that’s a whole other ball park. I wake up looking like you do on this photo othertimes. There are times where it seems like I’m starting to heal from one flare up when I’m develop another. I have been using over the counter cortizone but its not the greatest to provide immediate relief, but hey something is better than nothing….I too would like to keep in touch w/you all in hopes of hearing what continues to work for you or not. I would rather go the natural route as well, because I worry about my skin becoming to dependent on prescribed steroid creams, so I’m going to try looking for that vitamin E oil….this is putting a toll on my eyes…boo!!!!

Comment by Maria | March 6, 2012 | Reply
Hi Janice: I am sure that would be my diagnosis as well. In addition to my skin problems, I was experiencing this weird sensation like someone was pulling on a few hairs at the top of my head, it was so real I would immediately touch the top of my head expecting to find my hair standing on end but nothing. This went on for several days then stopped and has not returned so far. I also get eyelid twitching. So, anxiety and stress are probably contributing factors.

These past 3 weeks I have been trying to manage my stress with walking and exercise, and have totally changed my diet and eating habits to a whole food organic diet with raw milk and cutting out all white flour and white sugar. It is a slow process since I cannot just throw all my “bad” food away and buy all new, but doing whatever fits into my budget. Seeing positive results in my skin and overall health already.

My eyelid eczema has been under control the past 2 seeks. I have been dabbing on the Scalpicin with a q-tip as soon as I feel the slightest itch or see any flakes, and I have been using cocobutter on my eyes as well as my face and neck (seeing an improvement in my skin texture – a plus!) I am still battling a large patch behind my left ear and down the neck, on my left elbow and inside right elbow area, but not having extreme outbreak on my eyelids is a big relief!

Comment by Maryann | March 9, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Maryann,
  
  I’m glad your eczema has been under control. Mine was under control too but then I did something dumb and ended up with another flare up. I figured that because my lids were seemingly eczema free I put my old moisturizer on for a change. The next morning I woke up with swollen lids that progressed into red, inflamed lids. Thank goodness for the hydrocortisone! I’ve been like this since Sunday and it will probably last until at least the weekend. Well, now I know that I can’t put anything on my lids except for hydrocortisone.
  
  I have many, many symptoms of anxiety and the scalp tingling was definitely one. Such a weird sensation hey? Ever since I started taking an anti-depressant the scalp tingle is gone but I still have so many other symptoms. I’m suspecting I may have to try a few different prescriptions before we find the one that works. I find it odd that anti-depressants are prescribed for anxiety. As long as it works though that’s all that counts.
  
  Good for you for taking such steps to try and free yourself of the eczema. I wish you all the luck in the world. I’m pretty confident that mine is the result of stress/anxiety/anxiety induced allergy. I’ll know better after I see a specialist. A friend suggested I go and see a naturopath because it would probably be quicker. But they’re very expensive too.
  
  Is your sclapicin by prescription only? 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | March 14, 2012 | Reply
Hi, my name is Jane. I was Googling “eczema on eyelids” because I suffer from it and wanted to know if there was any treatment available. Mine is only a small red patch over each of my eyelids. Not only do I have eczema on my eyes, but on my neck, inner elbows, wrists, the back of my knees, inner thighs, calves, and stomach. I am only eleven (turning twelve in May!) and I have constant flare-ups. 2011 was the first year I got eczema on my eyelids, but I have had it on my knees since I was roughly four-years old. Thank you so-o-o much for this blog. I am going to start using Vitamin E oils. I already use a product called DermaTox by Healthy Habits. I think it might work for you, so you might as well try it!
I hope your eczema gets better,
Jane

Comment by Jane | March 14, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Jane! Thank you for your comment. I sure hope you can find something that helps you. Maybe your parents can get some allergy tests for you to see if this is caused by allergies. I hope your eczema gets better too! 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | March 15, 2012 | Reply
Hi Janice: Sorry you had to deal with a flare up, I know how aggravating and disappointing that is, especially when you had relief for a while. I find itnow it is hard to resist going back to favorite creams, especially when when the skin around the eye starts looking dry and wrinkly (I am at that age now:-( . I use Avon moisture therapy on my eyes, it is a hand cream but it is the only non-medicated cream that my eyes do not react to, and it seems to keep the wrinkles from being too noticible. Scalpacin is OTC, you can find it by the dandruff and scalp itch products. It stings like crazy, so I have to carefuly dab it on the patches with a Q-tip and walk around with my eye close until it dries but it works fast to heal the rash. These past few days I have been dealing with extreme itching around my neck in the collar area — I know if I scratch it I will have a new rash, so I am trying a sunburn relief gel Panama Jack Naturals, it contains aloe and Lidocaine and it feels slightly minty — it calms the itch and prevents the skin from drying — hoping this helps stop the rash from spreading which usually happens when I give in a scratch it.I am also trying to change my diet to see if it is food related. Would love to se a naturopath too, but my med ins. barely covers conventional dr. visits now, I know it would not cover alternative/holistic medical visits. Take care, Maryann

Comment by Maryann | March 14, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Maryann, I try to take everything in stride these days. The good news this time around with the inflammation is that I now have something to keep it under control. And I know that it will be short lived, at least until the next outbreak. LOL! I suppose I should count my lucky stars that I only have it on my eyelids and I hope it stays that way.
  
  My anxiety is a definite culprit and I’m trying so hard to keep it under control. Today I felt like I was going to hyperventilate so I just practiced some good sharp breathing and before I knew it the worst was gone. I realize it’s going to take a little while for the meds to work so I’ll just have to be patient for a little bit longer and give it all a chance.
  
  When I finally do get to see an allergist or a dermatologist I’ll let you know what happens. Hopefully I’ll be able to share something positive with you, something that will help you as well.
  
  I looked for Scalpicin in our drug store here in Canada but couldn’t find it. I wonder if it’s an American thing. IN any case, if you want to stay in touch via email feel free to contact me at janice_lowry@yahoo.ca 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | March 16, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Maryann,
  
  I was allergy tested and it appears that I have zero allergies. The allergist confirmed that it’s my stress/anxiety that is causing the flare ups. He was glad to hear that I’m using Glaxall Base as a moisturizer – he said it is an awesome moisturizer and it’s hypo-allergenic, perfume free, oil and lanolin free. As well, he recommended hypo-allergenic, perfume free Dove moisturizing bar. He also gave me a prescription for protopic which is far better for your sensitive eye area (and face) than hydrocortisone or Scalpicin.
  
  I’ve been doing everything I can to get my anxiety to a good level (very successful so far), and combined with the moisturizer and Dove I haven’t had a flare up in quite awhile.
  
  Oh, I saw Scalpicin in the drug store the other day. I hadn’t seen it before so I’m wondering if it’s something new in Canada. 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice | April 25, 2012 | Reply
Sooooooo glad I found this site. I was just diagnosed today with eczema on my eyelids. Its been going on for about six weeks and while I knew it had to be something more than just dry skin, I wasn’t expecting this. I have never had eczema, skin sensitivities, allergies, etc., before and I’m 41 years old. My doc wants to start non aggressive first…0.5% hydrocortisone and zyrtec or claritan, so I’m hoping that works. I feel very freakish with my red/purple eyelids that turn all flaky and dry, some people I work with were concerned that I got beat up. Good luck to all with the condition and I will be checking back frequently. Thanks for the site!!!!!
Lori

Comment by Lori Stollenwerk | March 15, 2012 | Reply
- It seems as though this is rather common … nothing and then all of a sudden bad flare ups! For me, it was my body suddenly allergic to cats. I hope you heal quick!
  
  Comment by Mariana | March 15, 2012 | Reply
- There is so much valuable information here Lori. Hopefully you’ll find something that works for you. Least case scenario you’re not alone. It’s nice to be able to chat with others that are going through the same sort of problem. I hope you find relief soon! 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice Lowry | March 16, 2012 | Reply
I too searched for “eczema of the eyelids” and found this site. I was recently diagnosed with this. I have never had any allergies or eczema anywhere. I had the rash only on one eyelid since October, but both eyelids would itch. In February both eyelids had it, so I went to the doctor. I was told to use .5% hydrocortisone cream for only 1 week and advised to take Claritan and use cool compresses for the itching. The hydrocortisone calmed the eczema down but I still had the cracked and flaking eyelids. I couldn’t wear my contacts because I thought I would crack my eyelid open when I tried to put them in. To get rid of the dry, flakey skin I used Arbonne Skin Conditioning Oil (retails for $12) and Arbonne Intelligence Rejuvenating Cream (retails for $35). The products are botanically based, vegan and gluten free. In one week my eye lids are back to normal. I was finally able to wear eye makeup again. You can contact me at LRK0607@aol.com if you want information about the products. Your site was very informative and I hope I don’t have any more flare ups!

Comment by Maria | March 19, 2012 | Reply
I’m happy to report that I found a moisturizer for my eyelids that does not cause an eczema flare up. It’s by Wellskin and it’s called Glaxal Base moisturizing cream. I was so worried that my eyelids would completely dry out because anything I put on them caused a flareup. This product is hypoallergenic, perfume-free, lanolin-free and non-greasy. If nothing else is working for you then I recommend buying this product. I think it’s the base of most moisturizers, just without all of the added junk. 🙂

Comment by Janice Lowry | March 21, 2012 | Reply
I have eyelid eczema ( I am pretty sure ) at this current moment and it gets worse when I am hot, sweaty, and take a shower. Everybody is always asking me questions about it and staring at me ( especially at school ) and it is SO annoying. I am going to use your advice and put on a Vitamin E oil ( for now ) until I get into a dermatologist. I have two questions: How do I reduce the swelling, redness, and peeling so that it looks somewhat normal? And Since I play basketball and travel soccer should I stop or just keep playing?

Comment by Emma | March 24, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Emma, I wouldn’t quit playing. You should try what has worked for me: Glaxal Base moisturizing cream (hypo-allergenic, perfume free, and lanolin free), and Dove moisturizing soap (hypo-allergenic and perfume free). And for the peeling, you can dip a Q-tip in baby lotion and gently rub off the flakes. It works amazingly well! 🙂
  
  Comment by Janice | April 25, 2012 | Reply
i suffer from eyelid eczema, especially in the Winter. Unfortunately i work full time in a dusty warehouse with second hand clothing so once i get a bout of it the dust never lets it heal. In summer when i’m in the sun and at the beach it goes away. What i have found helpful is going to the solarium twice a week, uv is very helpful, as well as bikram yoga. Bikram is very humid, you sweat a lot which i found helped to internally moisturize my skin after a while. With all the sweating i got out quite a lot of toxins as well which may have been contributing to the eczema. Pure Vitamin E oil has also been effective as well as paw paw or vaseline

Comment by katie | March 27, 2012 | Reply
I have to admit I have enjoyed reading everyone’s responses; it has been a relief in knowing that I am not the only one out there who is suffering from this problem. I have eczema since I was a kid, yet it comes and goes. My eczema is so bad on my arms that my mother and father invested in a dishwasher for me so that I did not have to suffer from the uses of dish detergents that add to my misery. Most of my problems are related to the soaps, detergents, powders, shampoos and even some fabric blends. I notice that as the pollen counts increase my allergies suffer more and again add to the misery of eczema. The last time I had an outbreak as bad as the one I currently have was back is 1998 or 1999; when my eyelids swelled shut and eventually had to be taken to the doctor to begin allergy shot treatments. Many physicians are steering away from the “allergy shots” and even my current physician chooses to try other methods instead of the shots. Prednisone helps in so many ways to stop the swelling but since I cannot get my physician to agree with me I have resorted to using various creams and working with my pharmacist. Aveeno Eczema Therapy has been a life saver as far as keeping me from scratching my eyeballs out, but the redness and swelling is still there. I use an allergy eye drop, Opcon-A, in my eyes to help deter it from getting worse and it does help with the itching on the eyeball or inside the eyelids as well as keeping my eyes from drying out.
I do know that often times when I have gone to the tanning bed that my eczema is nearly healed; the human body is capable of creating the oils essential to take care of itself oftentimes. Yet the problem is that many of us are also light sensitive either naturally or due to medications we are currently taking. A few mins with a large amount of UV light can often times help with skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. Like all treatments though, there are pros and cons to them all. My mother uses vitamin E oil and she says it helps. We both animals, cats and dogs and pet dander can be a problem, yes; however we also know that our family is very sensitive to Mold – my father nearly died from breathing in mold while trying to get rid of it from my grandmothers home. Mold also contributed to my mother and son having asthma, as well as my sister and father. Physicians can only test so much before people begin running out of money. I did a trial study on a medication that had to do with helping people with Eczema; it helped for the time though I wish I knew what the medicine was. Radiant Research often times holds these studies and needs people to help find either treatments or cures. They are worth looking into at least. Eating plenty of fish, radiant colourful vegetables, and fruits are always going to be good for the body regardless along with exercise. Being mindful of any modified chemicals in your food is very important because they alone can cause your body to react differently. My daughter eats organic bananas and never suffers allergies yet when she eats just regular bananas, she gets tons of mouth sores. It is a .30 cent difference by the pound but it’s worth is so she doesn’t have to suffer.
Many, many years ago – around 1985 or 1986, when my sister was a toddler she also had a very terrible case of eczema on her thighs and arms. Her physician at the time was set on curing it from her in those spots, treating it alone was not enough. She created a cream, of what I do not know, but whatever she put in it – WORKED! In each area that was treated with that cream/ointment/salve, it cleared up in less than a week. My sister is now 30 years old and has never suffered from it again in those specific areas. I used it on my arms, in the creases where the arms bed and I have never suffered there ever again as well. Yet I have noticed over the years wherever we did not treat with the cream we would suffer from eczema. Unfortunately the medical profession has it’s cons; due to her not having a license to create medicines such as what she did, her medical license was pulled and now I have no clue where she is or what she put in the cream.

Comment by Del Keating | April 8, 2012 | Reply
- Hi Del, I just replied to another poster and I thought I would just copy and paste it to you as well: Glaxall Base moisturizing cream (it’s hypo-allergenic, perfume free, and lanolin free), and Dove moisturizing soap (hypo-allergenic and perfume free). And for the peeling, you can dip a Q-tip in baby lotion and gently rub off the flakes. It works amazingly well!
  
  Comment by Janice | April 25, 2012 | Reply
- I have eczema on many parts of my body and have since I was a child. I recently tested as possibly having glaucoma. When I went to the eye specialist, he ran all the tests and was puzzled. The pressure in my eyes was very high but I didn’t have any blindness. Good but confusing. We talked for awhile and I mentioned usings OTC cortisone cream on my eyes. He freaked out!!! Apparently that raises the pressure in your eyes and can cause glaucoma and blindess that cannot be repaired! I caution everyone to check with an eye doctor before using steroid creams around the eyes.
  
  Comment by Liz in Lusby | April 26, 2012 | Reply
  - Yes! Be careful!
    
    Comment by Mariana | May 1, 2012
Same as everyone else here!!!!!! At 41, I all of a sudden, have whatever this is on my eyelids. Burning, itching, dry (no matter how much Cetaphil cream or Aquafor I’ve used) and swollen eyes! This is horrible!!! And embarrassing…… Went to dermatologist who gave me Protopic and also told me to start taking Zyrtec every day. Here’s what I think brought mine on: 1. Adult onset seasonal allergies 2. FACIAL CLEANSING CLOTHS – and I’ve really rubbed my eye makeup off with these – not good 3. Bad head cold 4. Starting period 5. Tired
My dermatologist said it was sort of a perfect storm. I DO THINK that I was too rough with my eyelids and something “got in” to my skin and combined with body chemistry/allergy issues, that’s all it took.

Have been on Protopic for a week tomorrow. It does offer a LOT of relief but even if I’m gently rinsing my eyes with lukewarm water, it gets the itching started. I also think its now crept up to my eyebrows, across the bridge of my nose and in the creases of my nose. Is this possible?????? To me that seems like something is spreading? Fungal? Bacterial??? The Protopic keeps it totally in check but nothing seems to be going away. Has it been long enough?????

Miserable along with everyone else! But it has been reassuring to know that I’m not alone!!!!!

Comment by Kim Lloyd | April 11, 2012 | Reply
- Try talking to your regular doctor about a possible sinus/staph infection. I had the same thing for years, was given steroids, allergy tests etc. Nothing worked, until my doctor took a swab from inside my nose, once I was diagnosed, it cleared up completely in just a couple weeks and never came back.
  
  Comment by Amanda | May 1, 2012 | Reply
  - I FIRMLY believe that eczema is a SYMPTOM, and although we need to do things to treat the symptom, it is IMPERATIVE that we find the underlying problem that CAUSED the eczema in the first place.
    
    Comment by Mariana | May 1, 2012
  - Hmmm..A possible sinus/staph infection causing the eyelid eczema? That is interesting because I just started having this around 6 months ago and it goes away for a week or two and then is back for a week or two. Same for you? When my insurance kicks in, I’m definitely going to get tested for this as I do suffer from sinus infections and allergies
    
    Comment by Claire | August 23, 2012
Thank you for your blog. I was just told today I have eyelid eczema. As a person who loves the outdoors and has never had this condition, and also works in a setting where appearance matters I too was worried about this. I am starting treatment with a mix of cortisone creme and eucerin. I hope it works but am open to advice.

Comment by Troy Quaglia | April 12, 2012 | Reply
I recommend Organic Virgin Coconut Oil — I dab a small amount on the area 2x a day — it has anti-bacterial qualities and has helped calm my eyelid flare ups.

Comment by Connie | April 16, 2012 | Reply
For about 4 months now I have been having puffy eyes, my eyelids are cracking, in super pain, and just itchy right along the lash line. I also have a red painful patch on my neck and arm. I’ve been to a few different doctor and even the ER. I was told it’s dry skin, or contact dermatitis, and even eczema. I’ve tried vesicare and vitamin e and even prescription ointments. I can’t take it anymore! No matter what I use there is absolutely no improvement! Please anybody help me!

Comment by KatieP | April 21, 2012 | Reply
- This blog is a great resource for eczema sufferers. I would read through several and try some of the remedies that seem to work well for several people. Eczema is a very individual and frustrating condition. I would also watch your diet. I avoid tomatoes, shellfish and nuts. There is a lot of information out there. You have to find what works for you. Good luck!
  
  Comment by Teresa | May 1, 2012 | Reply
- I have the same thing. This is the first thread I’ve read with a correlation to the dry neck patch. My eyes swell, are itchy, and I look like I have red eyeshadow on. When the swelling goes down, my eyes are left very dry. And I always have a dry, flaky patch on the front side of my neck when this happens. My dermatologist said the same things and gave me FML for “contact dermatitis”. It has not helped. I just started having this condition 6 months ago and it comes on about once or twice a month for 3 to 4 days, and it seems to be correlated to when I start my period. I have plastered vasoline on at night just to have dry eyes in the morning. I use Hydrocortizone on my neck, which seems to help and I’ve even put it on my eyelid out of desperation. Sometimes it helps and sometimes it burns, and all in all I dont know if its a good thing. Now that I’ve found this blog, I’m going to try Vitamin E on my eyelids as moisturizer as it sounds like this works better than Vasoline. Benadryl for the swelling. Aquaphor moisturizer. And a dot of Sarna under my eyebrows to help with itchiness and flare ups. Was also thinking of getting 1% cortizone. If you have tried anything successfully since you wrote this post, please share!!! I will let you know how things go for me.
  
  Comment by Claire | August 23, 2012 | Reply
If you don’t have to take Prednisone DONT . I had to go on it for 9 months a the side effects were awful . I put on 3 stone, palpitations, sugar lows, fainting, moon face, buffalo hump around neck area…. It’s horrible. Try to sort your diet an topical ointment I beg you!

Comment by Claire Harris | May 1, 2012 | Reply
- I agree! Prednisone is a steroid and can wreck havoc on your body and it can take a loooong time to recover AFTER you stop taking it. However, sometimes it is the only thing that helps until the underlying problem can be found and dealt with.
  
  Comment by Mariana | May 1, 2012 | Reply
I’m from the UK, but this blog has been really helpful. My 3 year old daughter has been suffering from eye-lid eczema for about a year and it is bad at the moment. Weirdly it only effects one eye badly (which seems to be a theme on here!) but it is red-raw and very itchy for her. Reading this has made me realise I need to up the dose of her antihistamine. One thing that did seem to work was a dairy free diet – I recommend trying that to anyone suffering from it. It seems to have flared up since she’s gone back on the dairy. She has had allergy testing for just eggs, gluten, dust and dairy, and it showed she’s very allergic to dust. One doctor prescribed her ‘Fucibet’ which is basically 1% hydrocortisone plus betnovate – subsequently was told by another doctor that could have given her glaucama. I’m currently using 0.1% hydrocortisone but really want to stop, as it’s not helping. ‘Fucidin’ cream has previously helped (antibiotic cream with no steriod in it) and she’s also been given oral antibiotics for it a number of times, as docs say it is infected. The last lot of antibiotics didn’t help at all. Off to the doctors tomorrow, but not hopeful for a miracle cure. Having googled ‘treatment for eczema on eyelids’ this evening, I might try a few different and natural creams. Also might go to a homeopath again. Tiredness, heat and colds also make it flare up.

Comment by Rosie Taylor | May 2, 2012 | Reply
Will putting vitamin e oil on eye lids fix it or is there more that’s required? How often? Time of day?

Comment by Dan Thorne | May 3, 2012 | Reply
- Dan, You’d have to talk to your doctor about that. good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | May 3, 2012 | Reply
Over the last month I have come to learn that it’s a terrible allergy to the pollen outdoors. I have been to two different doctors now for this and my GP gave me a steroid pack and a shot. After a seeing a week of normalcy it came back but I decided to get it before it got me again. So I made another trip to the GP; unfortunately my regular GP was not there so I had to see her partner at the establishment. He treated me a little differently. I got the shot, yes. I got the steroid pack as well; but I got something else. It’s an Eye Drop to help treat Eye Allergies. Since using it on a regular basis I don’t have near the problem. I use the drop twice a day and it helps to keep the eczema at bay, for the moment. I also use the Aveeno Lotion for Eczema. I also have a face cleaning regime every day. Nutrogena Acne Facial Cleaning Kit with a facial scrub pad and afterwards a facial mineral toner. These help to keep the flakes at bay, the redness down and the pores clean. Since following this routine and eating more fruits and veggies and less meat and less dairy it has helped a great deal. On the downside…. the doctor who gave me the Eye Drops for Eye Allergies said that it may come to having to getting an allergist involved and having monthly or weekly allergy shot to help prevent it from coming back. I have dealt with such a condition since I was young off and on throughout my life. Any time the pollen counts sky-rocket you can believe that my allergies suffer.

I know that each eczema sufferer is different and what works for one may not work for another. But I pray for Blessings for each and the ability to find the cure suitable for them.

Comment by Del Keating | May 4, 2012 | Reply
I found this site after a desperate search the internet for a cure moment. I currently have two swollen eyelids and trails of bright red eczema down my face and round my mouth. I have four different anti-histamines in my system for almost no relief. My eyelid problems started 12 years ago, as soon as I got pregnant with my third child, a boy. My previous two pregnancies (girls) had improved the small amount of eczema I had always had on my hands. Initially, I appeared to be sensitive to everything, feathers, furry animals, dust, flowers. I no longer have flowers in my home or feather duvets. Animals with fur I avoid. Over the years the good days have reduced to almost none. On the few good days I do have nothing seems to bother my eyes, then out of nowhere the pricking starts and then the swelling, itching & eczema arrive. When my eyes are bad I can put nothing on them that does not sting, burn or make them worse. Last year patch testing showed I was not allergic to dust mites, pollens, cats, dogs or feathers but that I was allergic to nickel and an ingredient in hydrocortisone which I had been prescribed specifically for my eyes. I haven’t used it since. Having read some of the comments about it damaging sight, I am now glad about that as this is the first I have ever heard about that. This year an allergist has said that a hydrocortisone allergy suggests I might be allergic to other steroids and I am now waiting for more patch testing to prove this theory. To have the patch testing I have to give up the anti histamines for the week before. I have been given Elidel instead of hydrocortisone. This burns for 12 hours after putting it on and makes the eczema even more red. Saturday it felt like someone had poured bleach over the right side of my face. My husband was cross with me because I wouldn’t go to dinner with friends. Today the left side has decided to join in. I have been told to persevere with the Elidel but for the life of me can’t see the benefit of using a treatment that makes it worse. I currently do not want to leave the house but have three children that require school runs and feeding. I feel even the weather is conspiring against me as it is raining so I can’t even hide behind sunglasses. Oh and the UK governemt is going too coat our coins with nickel because it is cheaper to make. Can’t wait!
I do, however, feel much better for reading all the messages here. I don’t feel quite so alone or so freakish and have read about several new things to try. I can recommend Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion as this can be used on the face and body and is the only thing I have ever tried that doesn’t sting.

Comment by Jane | May 14, 2012 | Reply
So grateful to find this site. I have never had any skin problem before and am 52. For 3 months I’ve had severe dermatitis around my eyes. I’ve had medical treatments including massive doses of oral steroids. I’ve also tried herbal remedies. Even water stung like hell. In a brainwave moment I wondered if olive oil might help. I put on a tiny drop furthest from my eyes and the relief was instant. So I kept on applying it freely and within 24 hours all the hard scaly skin was falling away and with fresh normal skin underneath. 3 days later I look almost normal. My skin is very discoloured and I’ve lost a lot of my (very long) eye lashes but no one would shocked by looking at me – with make up of course. I can’t believe the difference. And am now worried about all the horrible blinding things that have seeped into my eyes for months. So try olive oil if you haven’t already done so.

Comment by Fiona Campbell | June 26, 2012 | Reply
Wow, this blog has been really helpful. I recently discovered I have an allergy to soy that triggers eczema on my eyelids and around my eyes. I’ve tried a few different treatments from cortisone to vitamin E. I was at my sister’s the last time I had a flare up and had nothing with me so she suggested her son’s diaper rash cream and it worked great! It immediately relieved to itchy burning sensation and moisturized for hours so the need to re-apply was minimal. I slathered it on before bed a few nights in a row and it cleared up in a matter of days. Just be careful not to get it in your eyes! Hope this helps others.

Comment by Genevieve | June 29, 2012 | Reply
I have the same problem for the 1st time at age 46. I am the only one among many family members who has it. This is hindering my life. With all the modern technology, you wonder why Dr’s haven’t come up with a solution.

Comment by Cindy | June 30, 2012 | Reply
I am 57 and had this for 6 months. Was desperate and saw a dermatologist who prescribed all the above mentioned topical meds described above but everything was temporary at best. Also did the skin patch test and nothing came up. Saw a naturopath and her blood test revealed I was having an extreme allergic reaction to something – now to determine what it was. Her suggestion was to stop eating wheat, corn (I had already stopped coffee and chocolate) and tomatoes. My symptoms began to calm down in days. Also when the itching was unbearable I used topical benadryl gel which would burn for a moment but at least the itching stopped. Also tried the coconut oil. Began sleeping on a slight foam wedge which helps with edema. Found a product called Pratima oil for eczema (pratimaskincare.com) and this helped as well. Finally read that Brazil nuts contain something that helps eczema and ate a couple a day. I am virtually symptom free. Also only use pure allergen free cosmetics and skin care products. If this helps anyone I will be happy because I don’t look like a freak anymore.

Comment by barbara | July 2, 2012 | Reply
Hi there! I just found your story when looking up other treatment options for my eyelid eczema. I had never had eczema until college…about 15 years ago. I now get it every winter in various places but it’s on my eyelid off and on all year. My dermatologist prescribed Elidel yesterday. This is a medication I was on for years in my early 20’s. The med now comes with an FDA warning about the possible connection of long term Elidel use and cancers such as lymphoma. This has freaked me out. Does anyone know of other treatment options for eczema on the eyes that are safer? I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks!

Comment by Erika | July 12, 2012 | Reply
I began having eczema a while after moving in San Francisco. My first patch probably appeared around 2010 and it showed up on the front part of my neck. It was no bigger than a dime. At first I didn’t know what it was but I quickly learned it was eczema. Since then, I’ve had other flare-ups on my neck (all around, and especially behind), on my feet, on my face, on my eyelids and on my back. They all come and go (except one on my left scapula that is never wanting to leave).

When I traveled to France for vacation in April 2012, my eyelids and neck eczema started to get a lot worse. It was extremely depressing. The worse part was not knowing the cause. Everyone’s eczema comes from different causes. I analyzed the products I was using and the environment I was in. My potential causes included trees, pollen, plants, weeds, dust /mites, molds, stress, anxiety, shampoo, conditioner, leave-In conditioner, hair spray, nail polish, fragrance, eyelash curler, make-up, gold, laundry detergent, brewer’s yeast (any type of alcohol or vinegar), baker’s yeast (any type of leavened dough – bread), coffee, caffeine (coffee and caffeine are different), beef, pork, chicken, sugar, dairy, tomatoes, beans (all kinds), sugar, etc, etc. Yes, I am sensitive to a large amount of foods including dairy, wheat, yeast and beans.

I felt overwhelmed with this list, not knowing where to start – or stop using any or all of these products. And what about the airborne allergens? There is nothing to do with those. I was already taking zyrtec everyday.

I started trying to treat the symptoms. Here are the products I tried (most of them in their 100% natural organic form when possible): coconut oil, calendula cream (diaper cream), Natralia, Derma E Psorzema, argan oil, shea butter, Steroid creams, yu-be cream, Avène Cicalfate cream, emu oil, vitamin E oil, Boiron Petroleum, Mario Badescu control cream. I also had allergy treatment at Advanced Allergy Therapeutics and got de-sensitized to glutamates, molds, dust and dust mites, trees, sugar, and histamine (yes, I was allergic to my own histamine, how depressing is that?) On top of all that, I was also (and am still) working with a naturopath. He gave me some Calcarea homeopathy and put me on a Barleans Omega Twin regimen (1 Tbsp a day). And vitamin D.

So after a while I started to get better. It took maybe 2-3 months, but my eyelid eczema went completely away. I really began seeing a difference after I got de-sensitized to sugar – in conjunction with using the Mario Badescu cream. But I did stop using any kind of beauty product that was not 100% natural and organic. Yes, that includes shampoo, makeup, fragrances and even hand soap. I had to substitute shampoo and hand soap with Dr Bronner castile soap – which is a godsend, really. You have no idea how hard it is to find a product out there that has no synthetic ingredient.

Bottom line is, I have no idea if one single treatment solved it – or if it was the combination of all of them. Or if it had only one or multiple causes. Like I mentioned before, everyone’s eczema comes from different sources. And one thing I learned is – you better treat the cause rather than the symptom, that way it has more chance to not come back.

Comment by Malea | July 12, 2012 | Reply
Hi everyone!
This has been a wonderful blog to read through and very helpful with all the tips….Thank you all. I have recently been diagnosed with eyelid eczema. I started off using different oils and cream thinking its just dryness caused by the weather (I have lived all my life in a warm humid country and have recently moved to Sweden) but then one morning I woke up with 2 slits on my face behind which my eyes were hidden…. somewhere! Same story of cortisone creams and antihistamines both orally and as eye drops but that has all been symptomatic treatment…I stopped with everything when the eczema started to get better and then it relapsed worse than it had started. I recently got my adult acne under control after 5 horrible, depressing and expensive years! … and now this!!
After reading the blog and doing some research on my own I decided to taper down the dose of the corticosteroid cream (that just CANT be good if used over a long period of time!) and replace it with a vitamin E cream (Nature’s Bounty). So far it seems to be working. The inflammation, itchiness and the dry flaky skin is finally clearing up… I hope this is my answer. And above all I sincerely pray for all of you who are suffering from this or any other disease that you may find what works for you.
Health is one of the most precious blessings we have in life and sadly its something that we easily take for granted. Just a simple headache can remind us of that. Good luck and God bless!

Comment by Suha | August 12, 2012 | Reply
I don’t know if you are still monitoring this blog. I am actually trying to self diagnose myself, and I have a lot of these symptoms. I am 34 and I just started getting this problem with my eyelids about 8 months ago. It flares up about once a month. For the most part, my eyes are constantly very dry despite moisturizing and vasoline. I freaking load vasoline on my eyelids at night and just maybe they might not be tried out by morning. Usually I can feel a flare up coming on…my eyelids start getting a little itchy. Then they will be red. Then they will swell up like I have a black eye without the black, and as they deswell, they leave dry patches. When the swelling goes down, it almost looks like I have red eyeshadow on. I stopped wearing eye shadow months ago. I also notice the eye swelling gets really bad when I start my period. The swelling goes down as the day goes on with Benadryl, but each morning it’s back. I dont have insurance right now, so I dont think going to an allergist is an option though I definitely plan to do that at some point. I wrote down some very useful notes from your site. Can you look at this and let me know what you think? Vasoline, FML (which i can only use for 5 days at a time), Protopic, hydrocortisone arent doing the trick. So, move up to 1% cortisone cream but do not use frequently. Use Sarna under eyebrows to control itchiing (daily). Vitamin E (daily?). Aquaphor moisturizer after bathing. Any other tips/tricks that are natural. Should I continue the Benadryl for swelling…I am taking 2 tablets a day now…

Comment by Claire | August 23, 2012 | Reply
- For me, eczema was my allergic reaction to cats. Good luck finding the underlying problem!
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 23, 2012 | Reply
- I am glad that you found this site helpful, but the VERY BEST advice I can give is to go see an allergist. I believe that eczema is a reaction to an irritant/allergy, and not the actual problem.
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 27, 2012 | Reply
And let me state I know you are not a doctor. just wondering the frequency you have used with the vitamin E and moisturizers. Do you use it for when you are feeling an outbreak or as a daily routine?

Comment by Claire | August 23, 2012 | Reply
I’ve been suffering with eyelid eczema (and eczema everywhere else) for a VERY long time. I was recommended some products by a skin care specialist, and I’ve had some luck with them (clearing up my eyelid eczema over a couple of days). I was recommended products by Avene. Specifically, for my eyes I have been using “Soothing Eye Contour Creme”, it’s made specifically for eyes and there isn’t a limit on how many times you can use it per day (so, I’ve just been loading it on). For other spots/breakouts, I’ve been using “Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream”. I’ve been pleased with the results. They also have a line, “Trixera”, made for eczema. I was given a sample of the “Emollient Balm”, and am about to head back to buy the full size and use it as a daily moisturizer. I hope this helps some of you fellow eczema sufferers!

Comment by Ali | August 25, 2012 | Reply
Be careful about over moisturizing, you may be suffocating your skin (Vaseline is kinda bad for this). When you have these outbreaks, think about what you may have eaten. I seem to have an eyelid or facial reaction to tomatoes and shrimp. You may also try Mucinex D during the day and Zyrtec at night when you are having these problems. Good luck!

Comment by Teresa | August 27, 2012 | Reply
I just wanted to say thank you so much for your blog. I am at the beginning of my battle with eye lid eczema. I have been experiencing dry flakey skin on and around my eyelids for a few weeks now and thought it was strange but I just kept puttig moisturizing creams and Vaseline on them. Then I first woke up with swollen eyelids yesterday morning and saw a doctor in the afternoon. He assumed it was just an allergic reaction but I knew there had to be more too it. Alas, the itchiness and res blotches have kicked in. Getting through my first night with full blown eyelid eczema less painfully was due to your vitamin E suggestion. I am booking appointments with my family doctor and an allergist first thing in the morning! I feel so much more prepared an hopeful going into this now. I really believe that this is caused by something that I am allergic to. I am just hoping its not my cats 😦 I love them so much! I am 22 years old and just started teachers college on Monday! I already had to miss clad during my first week of the program because of this! Walking into a classroom with this eczema would be mortifying so I refuse to accept it! Thanks you for giving me great information and hope that I will be able to manage this and have a beautiful face again someday.

Comment by Sonya | August 30, 2012 | Reply
- Corrections: red not res and class not clad … Autocorrect on the iPhone often makes silly mistakes!
  
  Comment by Sonya | August 30, 2012 | Reply
- Best of luck Sonya!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 30, 2012 | Reply
Try taking off any nail products for a couple days…I know it sounds crazy, but just give it a try…

Comment by Dianna | August 30, 2012 | Reply
Dianna – That is a good idea. Unfortunately, I never use nail products, so that was not an option for me.

Comment by Mariana | August 30, 2012 | Reply
hi, I posted previously and have had a bit of improvement with my daughter’s eye-lid eczema – she is now under a Consultant Dermatologist who referred her for a blood test which showed she is allergic to grass, pollen and dust…she is on a double dose of two different anti-hystamines, some anti-biotic cream to clear infected eczema on her eyes, then after that Elidel cream for 6 weeks…she has also had a swab taken to see why her eczema keeps getting infected…we’re in the UK so had to keep returning to the doctors to get a referral to a specialist, but I’d say finding a dermatologist who deals with this all the time is very helpful…

Comment by Rosie Taylor | August 30, 2012 | Reply
- thanks for the update! I hope that your daughter continues to get better!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | August 30, 2012 | Reply
  - Thank you! She now has the Elidel cream on her eyes and they are nearly clear! 3yrs old seems too young to be experiencing this! Also increased dose of antihistamine at night and another dose of a different one in the morning is keeping her clear-we were outside all day the other day in a grassy park and no reaction. It seems you have to get a daily routine going of creams and meds then keep going back to a dermatologist to tweak the routine regularly…
    
    Comment by Rosie Taylor | September 17, 2012
Sounds like a good doctor. He’s not just throwing steroids at her. Good luck!

Comment by Teresa | August 31, 2012 | Reply
- Thank you. Just put up-date above!
  
  Comment by Rosie Taylor | September 17, 2012 | Reply
I too never had eczema except maybe when I was a baby (my mum can’t remember which of us 4 kids had it) and like you a year after my son was born I suddenly got it on my leg after using a new moisturizer, before long it was on both legs then my arm and cheeks and jaw line, then my hands then it completely went from my legs and arm and now I have it on my face and fingers and struggle daily to try and control it, right now its round my mouth (new) and over my upper eyelids (even newer) I too refuse to use steroid cream near my eyes, did the vitamin e oil work? I don’t have much money to waste on things but am desperate too overcome this its so embarrasing I hate going out. I have had blood tests so know im not allegic to cats, dustmites, pollen and other common things. Please help. Sammi, UK.

Comment by sammi | September 2, 2012 | Reply
- I wonder if it’s hormonal? I hope you’re able to figure it out!
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 2, 2012 | Reply
I feel at home here! About 6 years ago I developed what seemed to be a small irritation after being nicked by scissors during a haircut. That irritation has spread down my neck and has popped up on other areas of my body including my eyelids. The area on my neck goes away with prescribed steroid cream use but as soon as I stop applying the cream I’m back at square one. My eyes are horrible! I do think my two cats may be contributing to the eye issue so I will be trying some of the suggestions mentioned above to help us get through this as they aren’t going anywhere. Thanks for setting up this site!

Comment by Carol | September 6, 2012 | Reply
- Thanks for the comment Carol! and good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 17, 2012 | Reply
Hello: My name is Gillian, and I to have had eczema all my life, Right now it is all over my body, legs-front and back, neck, back, eyelids, scalp, arms-front and back, is there anybody out there who can tell me what to do??? My eyelids are almost swollen shut…HELP!!!

Comment by Gillian Nelson Eggert | September 17, 2012 | Reply
- 😦 If it were me, I would make an appointment to see an allergist. I bet that they could help you get to the root of the problem. Good luck!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | September 17, 2012 | Reply
  - At this point, I would get on a course of prednisone. I think when eczema gets to the point where yours is, it is the only relief. Be careful to very slowly come off of the prescribed amount. I have had Eczema all my life, pretty bad a large portion of that time. I try to avoid oral steroids because of the side effects. However, the side effects of eczema sometimes are worse, which is total 24 hr. misery. I also think stress is a big contributor to eczema and right now you have to be on stress overload. I’ve been where you are.Try avoiding tomatoes, shellfish and nuts. I also take a Zyrtec every night. Good luck!!!
    
    Comment by Teresa | September 19, 2012
I’ve just been diagnosed with eczema at 26 years old after noticing that my face has become very sensitive to most moisturizers, revlon color stay aqua mineral makeup, sunscreens, benzoyle peroxide, salicylic acid and tea tree oil. I have eczema over my face…especially on upper and bottom eyelids and around mouth. I went to the dermatologist the first time and prescribed hydrocortisone….which gave me an all body allergic reaction that flared up my eyelids like never before. (Scales, redness, swolleness) this allergic reaction got better with prednisone. After I got off, I went on another prescription cream that also gave me the same all body allergic reaction. Again, back on prednisone. I’ve found relief with applying aloe Vera plucked out of the garden and putting on my eyelids, olive oil (extra virgin) on the outermost parts of my scalp and using cera-ve facial cleanser. I’m still in the process of getting my skin back to normal. (I’ve only been treating this for 3 weeks)

Comment by Mel L | September 23, 2012 | Reply
- After much trial and error, I found something that cured me instantly and did not give me an allergic reaction. I’m Mel L from September 23, 2012 comment. I used clobetasol propionate cream usp, .05%. This did not cause allergic reaction and I only used for about a week and it was gone. But I have to continue to moisturize the eye area with aloe Vera occasionally in order to build some natural skin barrier. Also, eye moisturizer creams is helpful for daily treatment after the cure.
  
  Comment by Mel L | January 6, 2013 | Reply
Hi. I read some of this post and there is some excellent advice. However, I need to point out one thing.

PLEASE DO NOT USE CORTISONE AROUND YOUR EYES!

This is very dangerous and has been shown to cause cataracts and other problems. I am not a doctor but have been reading many articles on eczema. I also asked two MDs about cortisone and they both told me not to use it for the eye area.

Comment by Eileen Vote | September 28, 2012 | Reply
I’m so glad I found this site. It’s comforting to know when you aren’t the only person in the world suffering through this, though it’s unfortunate that we are all going through it. I have had small bouts of eczema on my hands that would usually clear up after a few weeks of intense moisturizing and creams. However, a few months ago, it started reappearing on the backs of my hands again, and this time, it got progressively worse! I thought I could keep it under control as I usually have, until the other day when I noticed my eyelids were getting dry, red and itchy. I woke up the next morning with them nearly swollen shut. I made an appointment to see the dermatologist. She told me that I was “pretty severe.” Her words were, “Sometimes you can control eczema without a prescription, but sometimes it reaches the point where it won’t get better without it.” I started on the Prednisone earlier today, and the swelling has already started come down. She also prescribed me Hydrocortisone Cream USP 2.5% for the itching on my hands.
This really is a horrible condition to be diagnosed with, and I agree that not having a CURE is not good enough!

Best wishes to everyone with your cases. And if you are like me and think you can get it to go away on your own, call a doctor when you have any doubts about it clearing up. You don’t want to wake up like I did, almost unable to see!

Comment by Kala M | October 11, 2012 | Reply
I thought I had eczema on my eyelids because they are dry, red & scaley, this time there is no itching & my eyelids don’t swell, so now I’m not sure what it is. I have a doctor’s appointment next week.

Comment by Janma | October 12, 2012 | Reply
I just wanted to leave a comment because I might have found something that worked besides steroid creams that I’ve not seen posted above. I too had the awful experience of dermatitis on my eyelids, and ever since I got my cat last year I’ve not been able to fully control my condition. It got so bad that I had a shot of steroids earlier this year which cleared everything up for a couple of weeks. The last couple of months had been exceptionally bad and it just hurt to even open my eyes and I was applying various steroid creams on my eyelids and taking anti-histamines to no avail. My eyes were still sore, and I began to look some someone punched and ran over my eyes a couple of times and I hated leaving the house. I did do an allergy test and found myself allergic to-of course my cat,-dogs, molds, dust-mites and various other pollen.

This desperation led me to look up various other possible remedies, including many of the ones above. Strangely, I found something which gave me relief within 12 hours of applying and was more effective than the prednisone, creams and anti-histamines I’d been taking for the last year(I’d started to take too large of a dosage than I wanted to without an effective result). I took vitamins-namely 1000g Vitamin C which contained rosehip, and quercetin. The rest of what they contained are secondary to me, and I found sting nettle did not help me much. I do believe what helped the most was what I did next. I sprayed colloidal silver over my face and let it dry a little, and applied 100% organic neem seed oil and put a little balm (propolis-salve).Within 12 hours the scaling stopped. It was amazing. Although the neem oil stank so bad I wanted to throw up. Its been a week since and I’ve been doing this morning and night. I try not to apply the neem but my eyes start swelling again, and its not completely healed. I just had to put this out there as it has offered a quicker and more effective relief compared to the steroids I’d been on the last three months. One could argue that there are natural steroids in neem oil, but right now, this works better than anything I’ve been prescribed and I haven’t seen anyone else mention neem above.

I did read up a little on possible neem toxicity, so I just had to put it out there, that anyone should read up possible side effects before trying anything. I’ve personally not had any besides the gag factor and it works better at night for me when the oil does not accidentally get in my eye which I have washed out with eye drops when it does.

I do believe the cure lies in strengthening the immune system but at this point in time, I’m glad to found something natural that kind of works and hoped to help someone else out there, as none of the other oils, coconut, argan, olive oil… had helped me. Of course I’m not a doctor of any sort at all and everyone’s condition is different, but I did postpone my visit to the dermatologist to see if this method works, since it seemed more effective than what they had suggested.

Comment by Beverly | October 20, 2012 | Reply
So happy found that blog. Last year, i had that itchy red left eye, so went to the drug store and was prescribed hydrocortison and a moiturising cream. Used as prescribed, and not looking or thinking about my eye for a week, all went well the itchinees and redness dissapeard. Now, winter is here again, guess what, it reappered, on both eyes now 😦 Have used the hydro and moiturizing cream for 2 weeks now, but no improvement. I I heard its no good using cortison, i will try using only the aveeno. guess i’ll buy the Aveeno Eczema cream this evening and tell you how it works.

Comment by KarineP | October 23, 2012 | Reply
I had a bout with flaking in my ear and the back of my neck under my hair (that one lasted 10 years). My GP told me to discontinue nail polish and fake nails. They contain formaldehyde. I did this, and the itching and flaking disappeared. Now I have a problem on one eyelid. The dermatologist asked if I read newspaper or magazines – which I do. Guess what? Newsprint contains formaldehyde1 So, I would read the paper, scratch my itchy eyelid, and it would flare up. Keep your hands away from your eyes! Keep your hands very clean to keep bacteria away. Doc says to wash eyelids with baby shampoo and moisturize with Aquaphor. Hope this helps.

Comment by Dana | October 25, 2012 | Reply
I have had eczema since I was 3. It has cleared up in the past ten years due to cleaning up my diet, taking B vitamins, probiotics, enzymes, and fish oil. I went gluten free 2 years ago and that helped as well. Nevertheless out of the blue my eyelid eczema returned. My standby regimen is to use Suki Naturals Eye Tissue Repair. It’s a salve and it is very hydrating and soothing. You can purchase it at Whole Foods or other Natural Food stores. My eyelids are on the way to recovery again. I’m certain that rubbing my eyes combined with something I am eating that is new is aggravating my eyelid eczema. It’s tremendously frustrating and I can completely understand what others on this blog are reporting. The eye tissue is very thin and sensitive.

Comment by CJO | November 5, 2012 | Reply
I went to a presentation about food allergies a few weeks ago. There are food allergy tests that can test one’s sensitivity of up to 90 different foods. If you are suffering from eczema I would definitely consider getting some blood based allergy tests (as opposed to skin prick testing). It could provide one with some useful information and direction on what foods to avoid. As mentioned in my previous comment, I had eczema on my arms, neck, legs, and eyelids until about eight years ago when I altered my diet and regularly started taking B vitamins, probiotics, and a multivitamin. That change happened after suffering for over 30 years with eczema. Now the only flare ups I get are on my eye lids, which I am pretty sure are related to cosmetics, possibly some food, and stress. Being gluten free completely changed my digestion for the better which I’m sure has helped. There are some foods that tend to trigger eczema, such as citrus foods, soy, eggs, dairy, and nuts. Other things that have helped me is changing the laundry soap I use. I only use natural laundry soap. That helps a lot. Chemicals in laundry soap can be an irritant. Wearing fabrics that are not itchy also helps. I no longer wear wool or use lanolin products. Lanolin is from sheep and eczema sufferers are often sensitive to lanolin.

Comment by CJO | November 6, 2012 | Reply
I found something that finally worked for me! I had been dealing with this same issue for almost a year and did a ton of research, experimented with a lot of different options and products. I still don’t really know what caused my eyelids to look the way they did (even after cutting out make-up products, eating differently and not rubbing or touching my eyes/eyelids). A few months ago, I finally found something that worked and I am trying to put it out there on all of the blogs/websites I used to read (and this was one of them and very helpful when I was going through this so THANK YOU!):

-First-off, I started using EYELID WIPES every morning and evening to get rid of any bacteria that was lingering on my lids (sometimes it hurt to use these because my skin was either red and swollen or scaly and itchy but I still used the eyelid wipes). Any brand seemed to work for me, even the generic from CVS, RiteAid, etc. but there are also specific brands I tried like Sunmark Eyelid Wipes and Systane Lid Wipes.

-Secondly, after using the eyelid wipes, I would apply a gel called DRY SKIN EYE GEL from the Skin Shop (a UK-based website). Here’s the link to the product: Dry Skin Eye Gel. The gel worked better than anything I tried. It took about one week before I noticed that things weren’t getting worse, although they still weren’t perfect. After about 2 weeks, I noticed everything starting to clear up. By the end of the first month, the eyelid condition was gone. I was ECSTATIC! I was even able to start wearing make-up again but I take it off as soon as I need to. I waited awhile to post my results because I wanted to make sure my combination of the products above actually worked — they really do. I have been rash-free, pain-free, embarrassment-free for the past 5 months. I really hope that this helps you as well as your readers!

Comment by KC | November 21, 2012 | Reply
I have facial/eye area eczema as well.
mine doesn’t get as puffy as yours did but it’s awful and I’ve been down every possible path to determine what it could
be. it’s been several years now. were you tested to deteine the cat allergy or did you just figure it out on your own? would love to email you for some
more advice if possible…

Comment by Katrina | December 14, 2012 | Reply
- I was tested for allergies and cats were off the charts. I jus stay away from them and I’m ok!
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 14, 2012 | Reply
what kind of allergy test…blood test? i went to an allergist once and wasn’t very impressed…he didn’t help at all. how did you find a good one? this is affecting my life so badly…i’m just desperate, been on a 2 month super strict diet bc the naturopath thought it was a candida problem, but i’m in week 7 of 8 and my eczema is alive and well. i feel like i will never get to the bottom of it. i have dogs but have never been allergic to them in the past that i know of-i’m assuming i would have more hayfever-like symptoms if that were the case. did you? thank you so much for your blog…

Comment by Katrina | December 14, 2012 | Reply
- It was a blood test. I had cats all my life and then suddenly BAM! I was severely allergic to them. Sad.
  
  Comment by Mariana | December 14, 2012 | Reply
After years of on/off eyelid eczema that got progressively worse until it was spreading across my face, I am currently eczema free! I saw an allergist at Easter and despite extensive testing only 2 things were positive, hydrocortisone and nickel, both of which I was already avoiding. The allergist prescribed Azathioprine, an immune suppressant. I had to have regular blood checks and liver function tests as it does not suit everyone. About 20% of people can’t tolerate it at all. I have been lucky and feel fine on it. I was showing improvement in a matter of weeks after. I have been on it for about 6 months and I am completely free of eczema including the hand eczema that I have had for fifty years. I have had 3 very small flares that lasted a couple of days that I can not tie to anything but the rest of the time I am fine. It has turned my life around and I have gone from almost reclusive to out and about and have a job that I could not have held down before. I hope everyone suffering and writing on this site finds the relief I have. I was very nervous of trying this drug as it can lead to lower white blood cells and conequently increased susceptibility to infections but I have been very well on it. I just thought I would leave a not

Comment by Jane Holmes | December 14, 2012 | Reply
Has anyone tried colostrum? A year ago I had my first outbreak of eczema on my eyelids, back of my neck, hairline, and in and around my ears. Saw an allergist and tested negative out of 90 things with the prick test. He said I may have a delayed reaction to something and to keep a food diary and over time I learned I am allergic to all yeast and spinach with is high in histamine. He also said I was “super infected” and prescribed steriods and antibotics for 10 days as well as Aquaphor. I cleared up with that treatment and only had very minor outbreaks from accidentially eating something with yeast in it. You really need to read the label on things and you will be surprised how many food contain yeast! Some examples are chow mein noodles and barbecue potato chips. I even broke out after eating some chicken tenders from the grocery deli and then read that the ingredients included yeast! I am extremely cautious before putting anything in my mouth now. However, it is now one year later and I am once again having sereve ecezma in the same places as I did last year, only it started one week earlier than it did a year ago. Seems now I am allergic to shellfish and nuts.
While with friends over the holidays, I was dealing with a reaction and having to explain it to them. One of them told me how her holoistic doctor had her take colostrum for her skin allergies to help build up her immune system. She also cut out sugar, yeast, and wheat from her diet. She has had no problems since and has slowly been able to introduce those foods to her diet again. She recommended I try taking colostrum and as desperate as I am like the rest of you out there to find a solution to this miserable skin disorder, I went straight to our Vitamin Shoppe and bought a bottle and started it. First day I could tell a big difference and had much more energy. Second day was not as great and later that day I had another outbreak to what was towards the end of clearing from the last outbreak. Today is my fourth day on colostrum and I am continuing to experience rash, swelling, and itching….I am going to continue to take the colostrum and hope to defeat this! Has anyone else tried taking colostrum?

Comment by Janie | January 2, 2013 | Reply
Hi everyone, I can’t tell you how thankful I am to find this blog. I’ve had a war with eye lid eczema for about 6 months now (on a off) and today, is my very worse day….ever! So embarrassing and so painful and SO UGLY. Just left work early to do some research and make an appointment with a good allergist. My family doc prescribed a 0.5 percent coritcosteroid cream called Verdeso and it hasn’t helped. Have done 3 rounds of prednizone and like most of you, as soon as I stop…it’s back! I’ve read almost every post and have picked up so many pointers. I’m going to focus on what fingering out triggers my eczema through testing and focus on eating healthy and exercising more. Thanks again everyone for all your help and advice. Good luck too!

Comment by Kim | January 4, 2013 | Reply
- Good Luck Kim!!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 4, 2013 | Reply
- Read comment 104. Hope this helps!
  
  Comment by Mel L | January 6, 2013 | Reply
I read online to carefully wash the affected area with T-Gel shampoo(being careful not to get it into your eyes), then apply Aquaphor to the affected area. While this has not cured me, the area looks dramatically better and tha itching is gone. I do the T-Gel morning and night. Hope this helps someone.

Comment by Dana | January 4, 2013 | Reply
This has been very informative reading over the last few months whilst trying to figure out whether I have blepharitis, dermatitis or eczema. Thank you so much for maintaining it. Either way, it looks like yours, is easily irritated and renders me without the ability to wear make-up while I battle the worst of it and wait for further appointments. Last night it flares up very bad on one eye, so I saw the duty doc where I work, who said eczema. He has prescribed soap substitutes, emolients, steroid ointment and prednisolone. I have not yet started the prednisolone. I have battled this on/off for nearly 3 months now, but I am very concerned about the risks with prednisolone. I have a strong family history of glaucoma, so to take this when it has warnings in every literature is a huge concern. Equally I do want to blast it and get things at least under control! I have so far tried E45 and an eye gel containing Cardiospermum. The Eye Gel was one of the few things that did not burn when applied and seemed to produce improvements. But for now I will just go with the docs advice until I get to see a specialist. Unless it doesn’t settle, I won’t take the prednisolone until I have spoken to an ophthalmologist, as I am not sure the doc last night heard me say I was in a risk group for glaucoma. I’m not keen to use topical steroids so close to my eyes either, but I’m not sure what alternative I have. I hate the skin looking aged.

Comment by Trude M | January 5, 2013 | Reply
- My skin looked horribly aged during and immediately following the eczema, but it returned back to (almost) normal within a few months of removing the allergens. Now I keep it clean, moisturized and safe from too much sun, which helps maintain a youthful look.
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 12, 2013 | Reply
I have had eczema all my life. For the past several years I suffered with it on my right foot. It would get better and worse, but never went away completely. I eliminated eggs, nuts and trying to cut down wheat. The bottom of my foot is now completely clear. My eczema all over is also better. Constant struggle….Good luck everyone and thanks for all the good advice!

Comment by Teresa | January 6, 2013 | Reply
- Hi… I am a 63 year old who has had eczema since I was a baby, but I’ve been lucky to have had a long dormant period. I had cataract surgery one year ago and I also use Lumigan eyedrops for glaucoma—–and now I have the itchiest eyes! I thought I was reacting to the eyedrops (or the preservative), so I’ve switched to preservative-free.That hasn’t helped and I am miserable, and tired because the ittching wakes me up at night. Also, my neck and hairline is breaking out – help! Sandy
  
  Comment by sandra | January 8, 2013 | Reply
  - Good luck Sandra!!
    
    Comment by Mariana | January 12, 2013
I am 48 and have this right eyelid rash and redness for the past three months. Nothing works and I am going to try Chinese medicine.

Comment by Tess | January 6, 2013 | Reply
hi I’ve put a couple of posts above, I have a constant battle with my now 4 year old daughter who has eye-lid eczema…our problem has been, once we’ve got it cleared up, I haven’t found anything that can keep it moisturised and protected that she doesn’t react to and makes it flare up again. Recently I tried Vaseline and discovered she doesn’t react to it, so I’ve been using it 3 times a day, with a steriod ointment very thinly over the top (for short-term use only). Going back to the dermatologist again this week…thought I’d share this as it might be worth a try. Dermatologist also recommended ‘Epaderm ointment’ for eye-lids and lips…she said the creams/lotions etc tend to aggravate these eye-lids and lips, and the greasy ointments work better for these areas.

Comment by Rosie Taylor | January 12, 2013 | Reply
- I am in Canada, and just started using Epiceram, a prescription ointment that replaces the natural skin barrier that’s missing as you age (and with eczema). So far, it has really helped my neck and hands. You can use it on your face because it’s steroid-free, but my eyes have been so bad that I’m hesitant. What do you think – should I try??
  Sandy
  
  Comment by sandra | January 24, 2013 | Reply
  - I went to the derm on 1/22 and she gave me a sample of something similar to epiceram called elidel. I have had this eyelid eczema for 2 months now….never had problems before…it is also on the back of my neck in my hairline. The elidel cleared my eyelids up in a day! It has a strange warm feeling to it that lasted all day when I used it but I put a small amount on today (mixed with some lotion) and I don’t have that sensation. Hopefully this keeps my eyelids in check. My neck is still itching but it is improving.
    
    Comment by Michelle | January 25, 2013
  - From Sandy: This is a reply to Michelle. Elidel is not like Epiceram! It is an immunomodulator and is black labelled in the US because there might be a link to developing lymphoma – so use it cautiously!
    Sandy
    
    Comment by Mariana | March 23, 2013
I use Aquaphor on my eyelid and lips. Similar to Vaseline but maybe a little less greasy. Also, I recently tried a cream for Eczema made by Neodporin. Used it on an area around one eyebrow that was a lite red and flaky. The next day the redness was gone. Can only use on my eyelid at night as I feel it affects my vision in daytime. Bought it on Amazon.

Comment by Dana | January 12, 2013 | Reply
- This is a reply to Michelle. Elidel is not like Epiceram! It is an immunomodulator and is black labelled in the US because there might be a link to developing lymphoma – so use it cautiously!
  Sandy
  
  Comment by sandra | February 11, 2013 | Reply
I am happy to have found this blog! I believe I might have eyelid eczema as well, but mine isn’t flaky just red with little bubble looking bumps. It started in one eye, now about a month or more later its on my other eye. It is right in the inside corners of both eyes. Going to an allergist in a few weeks. Does this sound like eczema?

Comment by Mary | January 27, 2013 | Reply
I really like it whenever people come together and share ideas.
Great blog, continue the good work!

Comment by treat yeast infection naturally fast | January 27, 2013 | Reply
be sure to shampoo dogs and cats with dawn they come on contact with other dogs pee on grass outside and pollen on walks and sticks to their fur and bring it inside

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
i also think reading glasses plastic have allergens

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
i filled spray bottle with water and sprayed when itch and patted on vaseline got some relief biggest help was not touching or rubbing despite intense itch

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
when i sprayed eyes with water i would let air dry and apply vaseline light pats never rub dry always air dry i meant to say. also i found veseline safest to use near eyes

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
i also took 2 motrin and a multivitamin.. also problem in our desperation we try many things hard to figure which one really worked but i guarantee mine got better without giving away my dogs

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
- That is AWESOME! Sadly, my reaction to cats is so severe that nothing I could do with my cats made it better. Thankfully I am not allergic to my dog 🙂
  
  Comment by Mariana | March 23, 2013 | Reply
washed eyes with baby shampoo and patted vaseline on. i think many allergens cause eye eczema but the rubbing causes it to get bad. not touching or rubbing i think is secret. tie string on fingers to stop forgetting not to rub or carry something in hands

Comment by shell | February 3, 2013 | Reply
Hi. Just in case it helps, I should tell you that i have been bathing in potassium permanganate (condy’s crystals) for ages for body eczema and it keeps symptoms down and cured my acne. I only just developed eye eczema though. I have bathed my eye i eyewash and put antihistamine drops in. So far small improvement but i will let u know

Comment by meaghan | March 23, 2013 | Reply
Hi everyone, thank you all for sharing your tips. I’ve tried the ‘Dry Eye Gel’ seem to work for a bit but then it got worst in the morning again. So after reading this site I went to the health food store (Holland and Barrett ) in London UK and bought 100% pure vitamin E oil for face and body .I got extra virgin olive oil eye serum as well don’t think everyone needs it but anyway, I applied atleast 5 times a day especially before bed and the flakiness is gone. This morning I saw the improvement and I got to say I will keep applying everyday from now on because vitamin E is good for our skin no harm whatsoever. So I am doing this to prevent the condition .So grateful finally found something that works for me .Hope this help for some of you out there.Cheers

Comment by Grace Lee | April 22, 2013 | Reply
I have had exactly the same thing since Jan 30th. If you send me your email address, I’ll send you my pics, it’s the EXACT image. I have gone to every doctor and every dermatologist until the right one, sent me for the right tests. I had patch tests 2 weeks ago and they discovered that I was allergic to 2 preservatives found in nearly everything, “Methylchloro Isothiazolinone” also known as “Kathon CG, 886, UT, LX and Euzyl K100, Grotan K”. Look on the back of your beauty products (creams, shampoos, sunscreens, shower gels, shower foam etc). Not only did i have issues with my eyelids, i developed eczema on my hand.
Since Saturday of this week, I stopped all usage of these products. my hand eczema is almost gone and my face has returned to normal shape!

Comment by Sara-Jane | April 23, 2013 | Reply
I have had eye eczema as well its been for 3 year now. It has gotten increasingly worse over as the time has gone on, first starting in the lower lids then the upper lids and now I have raccoon eyes. I would get flare ups that lasted a few days but then it got so bad it would lasts weeks. It also alternated eyes sometimes it would be both but most of the time just one. I tried to find a pattern it seemed like every two weeks but then it would take forever to go away and I could no longer keep track. I believe it was the cat but my allergist keeps telling me that that cat allergies would not cause eczema. He did a scratch test and an 80 patch test and the only thing that came up positive was a mild cat allergy, He still wasn’t convinced its the cat. However he did start me on elidel a non steroid cream similar to protonic but it didn’t leave my eyes on fire. It finally cleared up and I was back to normal. As per my dermatologist I also stopped all the Salicylic acid washes and face creams that I used for years and went to aveeno ultra calming face wash and cerave ( which I swear by ) My skin has never looked better and I thought we finally found the mystery. However I recently stopped the Elidel and my eyes are starting to itch again, when they do I will dab alittle cream on it to keep it a bay. But I dont want to use the medication forever and I know if i stop it I will have another major flare up. Soooooo I think its time to see a super specialist in the City unfortunately he doesn’t take insurance and he will cost me thousands of dollars. Does anyone have any other ideas?? I have changed makeup 3 times, stopped using nail polish, changed all soaps and use hepa filters in the house , I sanitize things at least 2 x week, even switched contacts as well as only used glasses for weeks on end nothing has made a bit of difference. The cat does not shed and also stays away from me 90 percent of the time. Im still not convinced its not the cat but the allergist swears its something else

Comment by Heather | May 11, 2013 | Reply
Thank you all for sharing your stories. After 3 1/2 months trying to get this under control, I found myself searching for answers online and came across this blog. I’m hoping something suggested here works for me. Thank you again!!!

Comment by jennie | June 5, 2013 | Reply
Hi
Can someone help me with my eye eczema. Doctors have informed me its eczema on my eyelids. My eyelids are swollen every morning and throughout the day. It looks like I have extra layer of fat on my eyelids that droops down. This rash has now spread to my face and neck. I have never suffered from eczema. I do not use makeup products accept for face cream to moisturise my face. Are there any herbal medicines that can help me. I have stopped going out and my confidence level has dropped.

Comment by vanita | June 6, 2013 | Reply
- I had it on my face, ears, neck and scalp too. Although on the scalp is just known as a form of dermatitis.
  
  Comment by Mel | June 21, 2013 | Reply
Thank you for your wonderful blog; it’s encouraging to know that we do not suffer alone! Yet, I’m sure that many like me, a 51-year-old male suffer in silence. I’ve done it all over the past 10 years. I’ve used almost every product: medical, herbal, creams, oils, steroids, cortisones, and nothing can really rid me of this misery. I’ve had three dermatologists, three allergists, along with my internist, and all have given me varied, sometimes conflicting opinions. One dermatologist even told me to shower only twice a week, an impossible task because I live in Hawaii, a place of regular high humidity. Like many others, I use prednisone when I’m at a breaking point. It’s a temporary fix that brings comfort for a few weeks at most. Unfortunately, my eczema has spread even more around my eyes, expanding now to the forehead and temple area. I’ve learned to just accept it, yet I still read stories online and blogs just for hope. I ready to give allergy shots a try. Any opinions on this?

Comment by Lionel Barona | June 21, 2013 | Reply
- From all my research I have come to the conclusion that eczema is not the “problem” – it is the body’s allergic reaction to an allergen. Once I removed the allergen (cats) from my life, the eczema went away 100% and never flares up again unless I wind up in a room with a cat. Other people have had success modifying their diets. Heck! There are so many common, and uncommon things out there that can be a potential allergen. Where some people get stuffy and sneeze around cats, I break out in eczema rashes. Totally sucks, but finding out what is CAUSING the eczema will be the key.
  
  Comment by Mariana | June 21, 2013 | Reply
  - True
    
    Comment by Mel | June 21, 2013
I seem to have finally found a solution to mine. I was prescribed Desonide .05% topical steroid ointment (dermatologist told me it is a mild steroid ointment). I used it for a few days until the red and swelling went down. Then they suggested Aquaphor…which made it worse! So I did the ointment again for a couple days. As soon as it went down again, I started using Ava Anderson Diaper Cream and I haven’t had a flare up for over a month! I use it at night and in the morning on my eyelids and any other dry patches I get. I’m telling you, this stuff has been miraculous! It’s all natural ingredients, and after shipping it was about $25, but a little goes a long way! I don’t sell it, they have a website, but my friend sells it, or you can just get it from the website without a “host”. https://extranet.securefreedom.com/Ava/Shopping/ShoppingCart_Detail.asp?PriceID=4105&Cat=avaBABY – baby products|ALL&Qty=1

I know it sounds funny, diaper cream of all things, but I’m telling you, it has worked miracles! My friend will mail you samples if you email her http://3805.avaandersonnontoxic.com/shop.aspx

Comment by Dianna | June 21, 2013 | Reply
I’ve commented on this site two or three times. But now I can finally say that my eyelids are permanently cured! Pharmacy type products do not work. Dermatologists did not help. I’m allergic to alot of products and even some natural products like putting tea tree oil on my face, honey, pharmacy brand SPF. Use La Mer facial cleanser, La Mer ultra rich moisterizer cream all over your face including on your eyelids. Cleanse once everyday once a day diluted apple cider vinegar for about 2-4 minutes. Once a day everyday cleanse face with colloidal oatmeal for as long as you like minimum 2 minutes. Take multivitamins that contain zinc for a month. After you are cured, use La Mer SPF lotion for your face and even on your eyelids because that is the only SPF lotion that my entire face including my eyelids can tolerate. I say this because its summer. So now that I am cured, my daily facial regimen is La Mer facial cleanser, La Mer tonic, La Mer ultra rich cream, and whenever necessary the La Mer SPF lotion on top. Sounds like I’m an enthusiast for this brand but it really was the only thing that worked for my eyelid eczema. And it was just the eyelid, it was the edge of my nose, my neck, sides of my mouth. Good Luck!

Comment by Mel | June 21, 2013 | Reply
My eyelid problem is gone! I am not sure if it was eczema or allergy. Here is what I did. 1. Threw out all harsh cleaners and switched to Method or something similar. 2. Keep hands away from newsprint, magazines and receipts which all contain Formaldehyde. 3. Washed area very carefully with T-Gel and a q-tip taking great care not to get it in my eye. 4. Applied a tiny drop of Cosmedix Opti Crystal as a protective barrier 5. Keep hands very clean and away from affected area. Good luck’

Comment by Dana | June 21, 2013 | Reply
I totally agree with your post!

Comment by Dana | June 21, 2013 | Reply
My last post was in May, I was at my witts end. I was close to a meltdown and about to spend thousands of dollars at a Specialist in NYC. After to talking to my dermatologist again she had given up on my eyes and insisted I see the specialist so she moved to my next my mild adult acne. she wanted to put me on a face cream for my acne around my neck chin area, but she was afraid it would make my eyes worse (even if I put it know where near them ). She explained how even if I put it on my trouble spots the microscopic molicules from the cream will flake and effect my whole face. This was the moment the light bulb went off for me. I have very oily Mediterranean skin never had issues with ance until I was in my 30’s. so for the last 4 years or so I have used face washes including salicylic acid when that didn’t work I also bought lotion that contained salicylic acid or benzoin peroxide. Never mind all the clear complexion makeup, I used all types of hypoallergenic and organic makeup but most had some type of blemish healing power. But MY FACE WAS STLL OILY and the acne kept coming. I asked the dermatologist if all the acne creams and washes could be drying out my eyes even though my skin looked oily and thats when I saw HER light bulb go off. GO figure. Through the years my eyes had gotten worse and I kept blaming the cat ( since I am allergic to the cat ) but the allergist would not give me a shot because he insisted it wasn’t a cat allergy since it was a contact reaction. SOOOOO The dermatologist had me stop all acne creams, lotions, washes and even makeup. I started using aveno ultra calming foaming face wash and Cerva face lotion, It took a few weeks but my eyes are 95% better. I left out 5% because I do start to feel a bit of tingling/itching occasionally but I quickly use the Elidil and after one dose it stops the itching, goes away no swelling redness or anything. It will be weeks before I have any symptoms at all. I still blame the 5% on the cat and take my zyrtec everyday. But all in all I do believe I found by cause and I look like myself again!!!!! Hope this helps someone out there.

Comment by Heather | June 24, 2013 | Reply
- Ive had full body exzema since 5 yrs i am 35 now. I tried everything under the from pills to steriods to natural health. My skin is bad n drs said i had skin lupus. Drs were tryna drug me up elidil. I used a book called 8 weeks to healthy skin diet. Its not perfect. But i tried olive oil for skin and bath. Baking soda. Prednisone was good but its caused me to gain wieght. So i stopped that. N i use sunblock from cotz total sea salbaths. Olive oil bath. Apple cider vinagar bath. No shampoo no condituoner. Baking soda for teeth
  
  Comment by char | September 26, 2013 | Reply
  - Total block sunscreen spf 60 online. You can get it tinted as well. Baking soda for bath and hair and rinse with apple cider vinager. Oils are good for baths grapeseed oil, olive oil safflower oil. Moisturize the skin inside out read the book 8 weeks to healthy skin diet google she explains every thing from fungus Chemicals wrecking your skin. But so soothing. Also skin is
    
    Comment by char | September 26, 2013
Hey everybody, I’ve got eczema on my entire body since I was born. I’m not from America, I’m from Holland so I don’t know how the creams and medicines are called over there in America. I’ve got eczema on my eyelids too, I guess I’ve had it for 3-4 years now and it HURTS soooo bad. I want to get rid of it!
I went to my hairdresser’s, who is just a friend of my mum and she said she had a gel cream or something, for Rosacea. Rosacea is a skin disease, the symptoms are almost the same as the symptoms of eczema, but Rosacea only occurs on the face and not on the entire body. There is a cure for Rosacea, it’s called ‘Rozex hydrogel’. It helps, really! Try to ask your doctor about Rosacea, or just search on the internet for gels and creams for Rosacea. It’s a bit expensive, but it helps, for sure. So give it a try.

You have to use it every day, even when your eczema / rosacea is gone. When your eczema is gone, it doesn’t show itself anymore but it’s always there.

For the eczema on the rest of my body I don’t use corticosteroid cream or other creams with hormones. These hormones affect the immune system of your skin and your body, so my advice is to don’t use hormone creams. The creams I use for my body is cacoa butter cream, aloe vera cream, and biological cream made of lavender and calendula. That’s natural so your skin will be happy with it.

I hope I helped you out, I’m still searching for ‘the ultimate cure for eczema’, but I think we’ll have to wait 5-10 years before the ultimate cure is there.

Good luck everyone!!

Comment by Kirana | August 27, 2013 | Reply
People who suffer from eczema may want to investigate whether chlorine or chloramine in the water they use for drinking and for bathing is the culprit. That was the main cause for me and I discovered it only after many years of severe eczema. After a few weeks of installing water filters at the sink and in the shower — and not swimming in chlorinated pools — the eczema began clearing up. I am now eczema free, unless I get exposed to chlorinated water when traveling.

Other possible culprits are foods, For me, corn and sesame are triggers.

Good luck to you all!

Comment by Li | September 29, 2013 | Reply
I also get eczema on my eyelids every time winter rolls around. It’s not nearly as serious as yours, but it’s visible and horrible. I’ve found the only product that will make a dent in it is Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. It’s thick, gloopy and shiny, but I don’t care, because quite honestly the effects are amazing and unlike any other product I’ve tried. No oil has worked like this. I apply it to my whole face, with special attention to my eyelids, every night, and every morning before leaving the house. It acts as a barrier against the cold, dry air and it seals in the moisture in my skin. I know it’s not cheap, but it is without a question worth it.

Comment by Kate | October 10, 2013 | Reply
My dad found a cure and was getting relief from eczema within a week, after suffering for ten years.

He was itchy all over his body and was covered in dark, blood red splotches, especially on his face and around his eyes.

THE CURE: Treat eczema for the auto-immune response that it is. Avoid ALL sugar, take big doses of probiotics, take garlic capsules or oil of oregano capules. My dad’s eczema was due to leaky gut, in which the intestines develop microscopic holes thru which foreign matter leaks into the bloodstream. The body’s immune system kicks in and any number of unpleasant reactions can occur, eczema being one of them.

Leaky gut can be caused by harmful bacteria and candida that has edged out the good bacteria that naturally occurs in the intestines. These organisms have a waste product that eats thru the intestinal wall, and cause leaky gut, which in turn can lead to eczema and other auto-immune responses.

Antibiotics are especially good at destroying the good bacteria, opening the door to the bad bacteria and yeast.

Sugar feeds these harmful bacteria and the candida yeast, which perpetuates and intensifies the auto-immune reaction.

Avoiding sugar, and taking the capules mentioned above to kill the yeast, started alleviating my dad’s eczema within days.
Within two weeks it looked like he never had it.
But if he has any sugar at all he immediately has flare-ups.

While its a treatment that must be continued for life, its still a cure for my dad because he didn’t have to rely on steroid creams or even see a dermatologist. He’s off any medication related to eczema.

Speaking of dermatologists, he went to several around the U.S. desperate for a relief.
They all prescribed steriod cream and that was it. No mention was made of the devastating effects of sugar on the condition.
When he made his eczema COMPLETELY disappear, he went to his primary dermatologist to show him he was free of eczema.
The response from his doctor: “You can’t prove it.”
Oh well.

An excellent article by Dr. Tim O’Shea on leaky gut is here:

thedoctorwithin. com/colon/journey-to-the-center-of-your-colon

It’s a real eye-opener and contains the principles that my dad discovered on-line that lead to his relief from severe eczema.
Hope this helps someone.

-Steve Bock

Comment by Steve Bock | October 30, 2013 | Reply
Facial eczema is the worst! Try Made from Earth’s Three Berry Face Serum. I used to have it all over my face, and its the only face serum that when i applied it would take away the eczema. . .face saver

Comment by blanka maria | November 5, 2013 | Reply
I have dry, flaky,burning and itchy eyelids. My dr thinks it’s from stress( have had a ton over the last year) now I stay with my inlaws for now and this is when it started occurring. Any help of what to use or do for it would be wonderful. I’m face to face with people everyday and it’s ugly. Thanks a bunch!!!

Comment by Anita | November 23, 2013 | Reply
Did not think that there is so many women that has the same problem! I am 40 years old and I have eczema on my left eye lid. My mother use to have the same problem. I am South African and live in Saudi Arabia,Jeddah. I started my Prolotherapy in Turkey for my neck,back and ankles on the 18th of November 2013 and this is when I noticed the eczema on my eyelid. Thought it to be the sudden cold and dry weather changes,since it is hot and humid in Jeddah. I stopped to wear eye make-up ext. I am not allowed to use any other medications or tablets other than the paracetamol that the Dr. in Turkey gave me to prevent any interferance with the prolotherapy’s healing process. I went to a Complimentary Medcine Dr. in Jeddah and there I learned that it is really true…WE ARE WHAT WE EAT! It is important to do an indivindual ImuPro300-Test. I had my bloodsample taken in Jeddah,send to Germany and had the results after 2weeks. Out of 268 foods ext. being tested,I have 63 allergies. Mostely very healthy food and once that I eat often or every day. i thought I lived a very healthy life with exercise and 6 small healthy meals a day and mostly fresh. That then also makes sense that many of these foods caused the severe pain and inflammatory reactions in my body together with the problems I am treated for with the prolotherapy. I am excited to see the effect on my body and my whole life as I start to eat correctly. I tested my 7 year old girl as well that suffer with severe asthma and are using higher and higer dose of cortisone and steroieds. I am sad,but also very excited and happy that I found these 2 doctors(but it would have been much better if it was sooner in my life). They treat the cause and not just the symptoms and no chemicals at all with so many side-effects. I had my fair share of so many chemicals and life-threatening side-effects of so many pharmacuticals that just do not work. If I can give anybody advice. Search until you find the correct Dr. Do not just take any medication. Read up and study your situation before you visit any Dr. and ask a million questions and make sure you get answers about the cause and not just what you can do about the relieve of symptoms. Be careful to be transfered or send through the circle of therapists and other treatments and long procedures or to wait and see. Using treatment for a precribed period of time do not face the problem, but just let it linger somewhere in your system. We can not choose how we die,but we have a choice of how we live life and there is too many health care ext. that play with our time and lives and it is very expensive as well. The body has its own sells to treat itself in time of illness/degeneration or injury…we just have to find the correct way of setting it in motion or stimulate this process and gaurd ourselves against “bad stuff” that goes into out systom to interfere with this healing process. I will stay in touch and let yo know of my recovery. Thank you for your sharing and lovely advice and it is a comfort to know there is more women with this problem and we can help each other out of life experiences.

Comment by Willandra Le Corre | December 12, 2013 | Reply
I have eczema since, I was 15. I’m 21 now and still suffering from eczema. It’s tough for me to take care of it as I have 3 children and they are still young and need my full attention. I have no time to put on cream so I just apply moisturizer and it is not good enough. I don’t know how to overcome this , tried so many creams but nothing seems to work.

Comment by nurul | December 15, 2013 | Reply
- I am sorry! Have you considered getting and allergy test?
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 22, 2014 | Reply
Everyone: examine your creams, ointments, shampoos and wipes for methylisothiazolinone (google it). This preservative added to creams such as Nivea is responsible for meteoric rise in facial eczema. 10 -12% of people seeing dermatologists. (See BBC Radio 4 You and Yours programme 18 December 2014). I write as a mum whose daughter has been suffering from some recent big flare ups of facial eczema and whose GPs prescribed steroids and antihistamine. When I listened to the radio today it was Eureka!..That’s what it is! (I spent some time reading all your posts, so thanks to you all. I hope this helps!)

Comment by Rosemary | December 18, 2013 | Reply
So does this mean it was not the vitamin E that helped, it was getting rid of your cat?
Thx

Comment by Brandie | January 6, 2014 | Reply
- Yes. Vitamin E helped soothe the irritation – the symptom. But staying away from cats was the key to actually getting RID of the Eczema.
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 22, 2014 | Reply
Hi. I’ve had eczmea since childhood. I’m now in my early 40’s. In my twenties, after having a flare up for months around my lips, I found out it was caused by a severe allergy to fragrances and after removing all traces from my life I was completely eczema free. Then, about 15 years later, the rash started to creep back. On and around my lips, then on my eyelids. I was still fragrance free. So what changed? Nothing that I could tell. It got progressively worse. About 9 months ago I went on an anti inflammatory diet which dramatically improved my skin. I felt cured almost instantly! No eczema after week one on that diet. I was free for three months.of all symptoms. Then we got a cat. My diet has remained very clean…still on the anti-inflammatory program…but my eyelid eczmea is incredibly painful. It’s everything you describe here in your blog. Debilitating, Humiliating. Depressing. I want to cry as I type this, actually. I’m almost without hope. But…like you…I believe it is allergy rooted and that we CAN do something about it (aside from steroids and cancer causing creams). So, my question to you at this point is, “Are you still eczema free?”. You say that in 2009 you found out cats were the cause and 11 months after that you were still good. How about now? Updates, please! You are the first person I’ve come across with such a similar story. Thank you for documenting this long, hard journey. It’s so helpful.

Comment by Kim | January 22, 2014 | Reply
- I AM still eczema fee, so long as I stay away from cats. I have found that allergies can materialize at any age – even to things that someone was not previously allergic to. Like me with cats. Have you considered getting and allergy test? That may help you find the new culprit.
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 22, 2014 | Reply
For those sufferers who haven’t explored the auto-immune connection to eczema, check out my comment #148 above, describing the mechanism and how to reduce or completely eliminate your symptoms naturally and without medications.

Comment by Steve Bock | January 22, 2014 | Reply
My eyes looked just like yours.. I assumed it was allergies because I’ve had trouble w allergies my entire life. I started allergy shots, took a lot of meds and was actually diagnosed w eczema of the eyelids. While on meds, I continued to have flare ups every month w frequent eye infections. One weekend when the allergist office was closed, I ended up in the emergency room w a terrible eye infection. They recommended I see an ophthalmologist ASAP. Thankfully, I did. He diagnosed me w BLEPHARITIS. My eyes were getting infected because of a glandular dysfunction of the eyelids. The remedy – gentle soap and warm water twice a day. Turns out the oil excretions on my eyelids harbored bacteria resulting in eye infections. The oilments, lotions, and makeup removers I was using around my eyes were probably contributing to the problem. Thank God, I’ve gone six months with very little eye irritation and no infections!

Comment by L.L.T. | February 5, 2014 | Reply
I have recently gotten eczema on my eyelid and in one eye in the outer corner. It just appeared one day. It is my first winter in Colorado so wasn’t sure if it was climate related or something else? I’ve been putting pure Vit E oil on it but it isn’t going away. It alleviates the burning and some itchiness but that’s it. Should I eliminate gluten? I don’t do much of it. It’s very uncomfortable and ugly although I don’t think I have an extreme case. I have been around cats too but this has never happened before? Help! Any other suggestions?

Comment by Kirsten | February 15, 2014 | Reply
Hi. I’m 16 years old and I’ve been fighting my eczema since I was 2. At first it was all over my head, arms, legs, everywhere. Thankfully I don’t remember that. All I’ve ever known is the two patches on the insides of my elbows and occasionally under my knees. Sadly, over the past couple years, it has migrated to my eyelids. I used all kinda of steroids but none have made it go away completely. Because I’ve lived with eczema all my life, I don’t apply my lotions and potions religiously. Thankfully my eyelid eczema isn’t that bad compared to my elbows. Within the past year some kind of new rash has been introduced to my eczema infected elbows. The other has also spread onto my outer elbows, arms, and neck. I have a really great steroid that is keeping all that under control, but I can’t use it that often because after 14 years of exposure to steroids my skin has lost its pigment around the elbows, and I don’t think it’s healthy on my eyes. For the past month, I’ve been using CeraVe as a daily moisturizer. I put it on right after I shower before my skin can dry out, and it really helps. For the first time since I’ve had eczema on my eyelids, it’s not flaky or as dry. My arms don’t itch as much, so they’re healing.

I guess my advice would be don’t scratch. Believe me I know it’s hard and sometimes you just have to, but try not to think about it, or try rubbing the infected area instead of scratching. That often helps me. Moisturizer!! Dry skin makes you feel extra itchy and lotion often relieves pain. If you have to use steroids, get a strong dose, apply like your supposed to, and after it clears up, keep applying for a few days just in case.

I maybe a hypocrite when it comes to my eczema, but for those out there who want some advice, it’s better to accept it than judge. I’ve dealt with my eczema all my life, and if you or someone you know has eczema let them know I feel their pain, and we can get through it!!

Comment by Klare | March 6, 2014 | Reply
- Here’s an update on my eczema:
  
  After a few months and several bottles of CeraVe, my eyelid eczema is gone!! I’ve still got a few patches on my neck but they’re not as noticeable. The patches on my elbows are nearly gone too. I haven’t been using steroids for awhile, but I put some on the other day and my other rash has almost dissapered as we’ll.
  
  The other day I found out I am slightly alergic to cats and dust, but highly alergic to dogs. We kicked my dog out of the house and at the rate my eczema has been getting better, I should be rash free by summer!! Thanks
  
  Comment by Klare | May 7, 2014 | Reply
My son has been suffering from eczema for the last year. It seems to have kicked in at age 12. He just turned 13. Here is what is working for us. Ive tried loys of combinations and have finally come up with a winning combo. First I want to mention that anything with petroleum in it will actuall dry out your skin more! Its occlusive and will not allow any water other moisture in. Try putting a saltine in baby oil. It will be shiny and crispy.even after a week! So imagine the cracker is your skin. One in water soakes it right up. My point,moisture is important to trearing eczrma. So here is what we are doing with immediate relief and results. Tepid showers. Eczema control by Forces of Nature. It is a homeopathic oil which starts to work at the cellular level. Go check out their website. We just started their exzema soapp and its good. Full of essential oils. Next… arbonne Calm line for face including the serum. The cooling eye gel is fabulous and it can be placed in the refer to chill it more. It has a metal roller ball tgat feels amazing. This product is formulated to reduce puffiness. Then the Skin Conditioning Oil on thr lids. I am a consultant and im not here to sell but to help.
Not every producti use is Arbonne but i can tell you the ones i use work like a charm. If your interesred in learning more you can email me. Lastly, The gut! Probiotics and Digestive enzymes are ctitical for the immune system. Lots of bioflavenoids either through suppliment or fruits and veggies. We juice and saw huge improvement. His trigger is dairy. Was when he was a baby. Resolved his baby eczema and never had an issue till the hormones kicked in. ABC baby line is amazing and works like a dream on littke ones eczema. That product single handedly awakened my passion to help moms help their itchy babies

Eledel and eucerine never worked and ive heard so many moms with the same sentiment. Im not a dr. I am a mom who has a boy who needs relief. We found a combo that works and i have to share. Maybe this can help someone here. I

Comment by erica | March 14, 2014 | Reply
I have had the same symptoms for about 9 years and have never posted a comment in my life but I hope I can help some of you! for me it was my laundry detergent. I am back to normal finally. I was using the Free & Clear version of Tide but found out even that can have a preservative that causes allergies. I also avoid anything that has a scent on my face and use Aveno.

Comment by Lisa | March 25, 2014 | Reply
What dtergent do you use if Tide Free still causes itching?

Comment by sandra | March 26, 2014 | Reply
- Go to a natural food store, Like Whole Foods, Vitamin Cottage, etc and talk to someone there about an all-natural clothing soap.
  
  Comment by Mariana | May 6, 2014 | Reply
I am not repeating what all has been said above regarding the different creams and lotions on eczema. I had horrible years myself unless I cam acorss a homeopathic formula. It not only worked so effectively, it also may made me a big fan of homeopathic medicines. This post explains it verll.

http://www.peashealth.com/10-best-reasons-that-i-recommend-h-eczema-to-treat-your-child-skin-eczema-naturally/

Comment by Shayrin Smith | March 27, 2014 | Reply
Anyone ever get this type of eczema from crying a lot? Is it the stress or the salt in the tears or both?

Long story will try to make it short, I have not had any kind of eczema on face since I was a young teen that played with a lot of cheap makeup. Have had a few small body patches here and there but nothing ghastly. I am 55 now and rarely wear makeup. I most certainly was not wearing any on my last job, last year (I have been out of work for 5 months). Anyway, I was desperate to hold on to that job although it was just a temp, there was nothing else. But there was a brutally tempered mgr there that was so nasty vile I was out of my mind. I stopped being able to swallow solid food during the day the verbal beatings were so bad. Around that time I started to get a hot, itchy feeling on my jawline. There was also construction going on in office next door which felt at least lung irritating if not skin irritating. I would put a little benadryl cream there as the itching was maddening. By the time the job ended eight months later I was a crying gagging mess with eczema over my eyelids as well. While I still had medical insurance went to doctor. First tried a prescription strength cortizone which was so grainy it was like rubbing sand on my eye area. He switched me to a cortizone lotion which helped with itching but not the redness or swelling. At this point I am without real medical insurance (obamacare – 4000 dollar deductible, nice huh?) out of work and my unemployment runs out next month. The crying has picked up to a frenzied pace and I am now about two thirds covered by eczema on face. I have had one interview, used green makeup to try and counteract. Didn’t get the job but I don’t think it was because I looked not too good. I have one more interview coming up. Desperate. I have some prednisone pills left over from when I had an ear infection years ago. Thinking about taking them a few days before interview. Otherwise will go in there barefaced and psuedo-lie. It is spring here and the pollen is crazy. Will tell them I had an allergic reaction a day or two before to something blooming and allergists are swamped and I can’t get seen soon. What else can I do, I have to get the job, my life depends on it. Truly. I am homeless next month and we know there is very little chance of getting out of that.

I have tried every natural, homeopathic remedy I could and barely could afford. Currently back to manuka honey mixed with coconut oil to keep down the stickiness because it is really hard on the eyes (the honey). The manuka rescue cream blend that is available commercially is not sticky but did nothing. I don’t wear makeup except for interviews or other important public things (I have found no correlation to severity of outbreak). Stopped using fabric softener and anything with fragrance. No pets. I will pray for a cure for all of us.

Comment by Sue | April 15, 2014 | Reply
Great blog and feedback! I too am an eczema sufferer and at time of writing have a terribly swollen itchy left eye and same with mouth area. I am allergic to latex so steer clear of gloves etc, and despite leading a healthy life, have found that when stressed eczema definately flares up – I currently have a bad cold and have spent several days in bed. Prior to the eye flare up, I did allow one of my cats on my bed – I am now wondering if this was the trigger. Not one dr or dermatologist has suggested taking bloods – it appears this is the only way to diagnose what the triggers are. Very frustrating not to mention embarrassing!

Comment by Laura | May 4, 2014 | Reply
I have this same problem. I get it over my eyes and all over my neck. My dermatologist seems to think it is cat allergy. Does the vitamin e work to cure this?

Comment by Lisa | May 6, 2014 | Reply
- I do not believe the Vitamin E cures it – just possibly soothes it a bit. If you have a cat allergy, then the only “cure” is to be in a cat-free environment.
  
  Comment by Mariana | May 6, 2014 | Reply
  - Mariana is it possible to talk to you via email??? I think I am allergic to my cat … it’s a long story. But I feel like your blog is telling MY story as well …. 😦
    
    Comment by Rachael Hedgcoth | July 17, 2015
I have posted before…. My son has suffered with eczema for the last year. Especially the eye area. We now have a system that is working along with lots of prayer. It’s hard to see your child suffer. His trigger is dairy however the eye area is very difficult to treat. There are no sebaceous glands there so the more you rub the dryer they get. I swear by Arbonne ” calm” cooling eye gel which helps with inflammation and then we follow with Arbonne skin conditioning oil. When he does it morning and night it’s a huge dufference. If he chooses to
Indulge in dairy products he will experience a flair up. He was clear for 9 years but when puberty started so did the eczema. In a nut shell… Hydrate with a petroleum free product. Petroleum is extremely drying. Second to the sun for aging your skin. Read your labels. If your interested in trying the treatment we are having success with you may contact me. It is working, it’s opthomologist tested and very affordable. Months of use for about 40 bucks. I’ve tried everything. It does not burn as a matter of fact the oil is safe for burn victims. Lastly, lots of greens. Build your immune system. May try antihistamines too. Fish oil, lots of vitamins A . No sugar. Consider an anti inflammatory approach to your eating. Sugar kills the immune system! Best wishes to you all. My heart is weary at times for my son but we are close to clear. I sympathize with you all. Hang in there.

Comment by Erica | May 6, 2014 | Reply
After suffering from eczema around my eye for the past few years, I found a really great moisturizer for those who suffer from eye eczema..or any eczema for that matter is the all natural “Brilliant” moisturizer. You can get it here: http://www.youniqueproducts.com/racheladams

Comment by Rachel | June 12, 2014 | Reply
Rhino repair cream is AMAZING!! I was born with eczema so have had to deal with it all my life, I find it’s worse in the winter in the colder months..Hydrocortisone doesn’t work as well as this and it’s natural so I’m happy to put it on my eyes. This website ships overseas and it’s the cheapest I can find on the net. http://www.healthpost.co.nz/natural-beauty-and-personal-care/healing-and-pain-creams/healing-cream/rhino-repair-obrr.
This stuff works!!

Comment by Amanda | July 17, 2014 | Reply
Someday I will have the time to read through all of these but I love you all!! Eczema sufferers unite! Been dealin with recurrent eyelid, top and bottom, dark red, then scaling for a few months. Have gone through oral steroids but it has come back. Pretty sure it’s from one of my cats that sleeps with me, but I simply cannot part with her! I have been dealing with eczema most of my 42 years so I will just continue and try to find relief..someday I WILL wear make up again!

Comment by Alison | July 28, 2014 | Reply
I often used to get eczema on my eye lids as well – but use the Made from Earth Pure Aloe Treatment in the area! It really worked for me and several people I know. Its gentle enough to be put around the eyes – and no harsh chemicals. . .and no more eyelid eczema. super moisturizing and claming…

Comment by Chi Shi | August 20, 2014 | Reply
I am so thankful for having found your webpage. I’ve suffered from eyelid eczema off and on for a number of years. I was lucky enough to have kicked it for about a year and a half but it came back 3 weeks ago on my left eye with a vengence….puffy, weepy, red, then peeling and itchy. I was on the search for a natural solution as nothing has worked effectively for me in the past. I read all of the previous posts and decided to try the one thing I already had on hand – Johnson’s baby shampoo. I just used it on the one eye and overnight it cut down on the redness considerably. I did note the dryness all over the eyelid that the other poster stated, but that’s nothing compared to the eczema. I’ve used it for three days now and every day it gets better, less red and less itchy/peely. I am thrilled! I did want to mention one other thing I have been using that I haven’t seen mentioned and that is organic coconut oil. I buy mine at Trader Joes for $4.99. It’s known for it’s many uses, one of which is an antiinflammatory. I’ve been putting that on the affected area every night and each morning and it helps a bit, but pared with the Johnson’s baby shampoo it works like a charm. Soaks in very quickly. I wish you all luck with all that you try and hope this might work for you too. If anything changes I will post an update.

Comment by Denise | August 24, 2014 | Reply
Throwing in my experience. I’ve had eyelid eczema for the last 7 years or so. I think it all started after I had an eyelid lift (plastic surgery). But it seems like it’s more of a seasonal allergy in that it starts when the leaves start changing and ragweed season hits. Here’s my “routine” which is a conglomeration of remedies that I read about on another site: MedHelp (eye care community). There’s a LONG discussion under “Itchy Red Swollen Eyelids,,,not blepharitis – please help me!”

So when it flares up, I get red, itchy, swollen eyelids….just like the topic above. It also works its way to my bottom lash line as well. It’s worse on the right eyelid. I take a square cotton pad and put some apple cider vinegar on it (make sure the vinegar has “mother” in it). Apply that to your eyelid and just press it down for about a minute. After that, I use Mario Badescu’s control cream. However, I just read that it’s been discontinued due to a lawsuit whereby Mario didn’t disclose the fact that the cream had a corticosteroid in it. Duh….that’s why it works! Anyway, it’s illegal not to disclose that information. So, after that is Theraneem Organix Neem Cream (best price at Swanson Vitamins). You can use neem forever…it doesn’t thin the skin like cortisone cream. Do this for a few days and hopefully, it will go into remission. I’ve also read that organic honey along the eyelids will help, but how could you see after applying it? I also take oregano oil capsules as I’ve read that helps too. Who knows if it’s really doing anything?

Good luck to everyone! This is annoying, irritating, and like so many others, makes wearing eye makeup nearly impossible.

Comment by Ruby Gillen | September 26, 2014 | Reply
I’m a guy, over 40, aways enjoyed drinking coffee..yet recently at a former job (which I eventually left) , the break room had a ultra-modern electronic coffee machine where you would select from pod packets (light roast , med roast, dark roast) and insert one into slot and press “Percolate” button. VW. Mercedes & BMW’s have these machines as well. Well, after drinking 4-5 Coffee Cups per day with these machine..my Eye lids had vertical skin cracking Ezema/blapharitis by end of the day. Finally, after 4 months, I realized the cause..and stopped drinking caffeine drinks. Nowadays a new employer that i work for has the old fashioned brewing coffee pot..I drink 1.5 cups per day..with alot of decaf /organic Tea.and “no more eye lid exzema’. I do have a Cat at home however, so constant vacuming of dander is a weekly thing. Milk of Magnesia applied to my eye lids with a Q-tip was ‘the quick fix’ for drastic exzema issues…

Comment by Greg palmerton | September 29, 2014 | Reply
I was suffering from eczema on my eyelid for months, and I couldn’t get it to go away. At times it would be better than other times, but even at its best, it still sucked! I hated to do it, but I even put my steroid cream on it which I know is bad but it is the only thing that somewhat helped. Then, I switched to Younique eye pigments instead of regular eye shadow and it helped tremendously! The pigments are 100% mineral with no cheap fillers. All the products are naturally based. I decided to become a presenter for the discount I’d get on my own makeup. Since then, I am using all Younique products and my eyelid eczema is completely gone. I’m not coming on here to sound like I’m trying to make money by selling Younique products, but if you think your makeup might be adding to the problem, I highly suggest trying Younique. Either find a local presenter or send me a message. The only thing I am bummed about is that they discontinued the best moisturizer I ever used. Supposedly the replacement is awesome, too, but I haven’t tried it yet and I’m always nervous to try something new because of my sensitivities.

Comment by rkdshark | November 13, 2014 | Reply
I have irritated eyelids due to wearing cosmetics such as eyeliner, mascara etc. my whole face is red and discolored how can I cure this!

Comment by maci | January 31, 2016 | Reply
- I would talk to your dermatologist. I am not a doctor/dermatologist. Good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | February 1, 2016 | Reply
Hi i read your story, but i dont seem to understand what you used to cure that. I have the same thing and am really sick of this. So could you please help me by telling me what you used. Thanks

Comment by Monica | March 22, 2016 | Reply
- Hi Monica – For me, the cure was not being around cats. This whole things was an allergic reaction to cats. Now that I have moved to a house where cats never lived and I stay away from cats, I no longer have this issue.
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 6, 2017 | Reply
I have this which now has gotten 10 times worse now im 17 weeks pregnant, normally i would take my strong antihistamines which get rid of it but i cant take it now im pregnant. My doctor said Priton which is a very mild one compared to what im used too and it has no effect on me. I have a good cream which doesnt sting and helps with the dryness its called dr organic manuka honey rescue cream. But I need to gone as i work in an opticians and it looks bad!

Comment by Carolyn | September 12, 2016 | Reply
- Have you considered going to an allergist? My severe ecezema was a result of a previously unknown cat allergy. Now that I have moved to a house where cats never lived and I stay away from cats, I no longer have this issue.Good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 6, 2017 | Reply
Hye there..Im having the exact same problem..my right eyelid..Its so Itchy, painful and its totally frustrating whenever people stare at your eye while having conversation..Used to take prednisolone but im breastfeeding my 6months baby so the doctor asked me to stop all oral steroids..so after i stop taking pred, it become worst..I dont know what should i apply on it..Ive tried few vitamin E oil but its just painful..

Comment by Emelia | January 6, 2017 | Reply
- Have you considered going to an allergist? My severe eczema was a result of a previously unknown cat allergy. Now that I have moved to a house where cats never lived and I stay away from cats, I no longer have this issue. Good luck!
  
  Comment by Mariana | January 6, 2017 | Reply

My Eyelid Eczema

*Please note: I am not a doctor, nor am I selling anything. I am just sharing the journey that I had through a horrible bout of face/ eyelid eczema and what I did to cure/overcome it.*

UPDATE: My Eczema was an allergic reaction to CATS. It got progressively worse until I had to (sadly) find a different home for my cats and move into a new house that never had cats.

My guess is that it was dormant in me until after he was born.

According to Wikipedia:

“There is no known cure for eczema, thus treatments aim to control the symptoms: reduce inflammation and relieve itching.”

MedicineNet.com says,

“The goals for the treatment of eczema are to prevent itching, inflammation, and worsening of the condition.”

This blog is dedicated to my journey to CURE My Eyelid Eczema.

UPDATE: My Eczema was an allergic reaction to cats. It got progressively worse until I had to (sadly) find a different home for my cats and move into a new house that never had cats.

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