itchy red swollen eyelids,,,not Blepharitis - please help me!!!!

[kkrocks]

Same problem here - swollen itchy eye lids - for me it was just my lower eye lid on my right eye that was swollen and sometime the upper lid would get a little puffy but both my eyes itched like a mofo (and still do itch from time to time now). My stats: I'm 24, female, I do wear make up but I didn't the entire time I was trying to rid myself of this crappy ailment, I have cats, I have a high stress job, and I also have no earthly idea why my eye was doing this. One day it was just swollen when I woke up, like everyone else, it would go down during the day but then the next morning it would be back, swollen and itchy and looking like ****. I literally sat here for two hours (off and on) a couple days ago reading this site at work because it honestly gave me such peace of mind to know people had the same problem as me. I just wanted to come on here and comment that y'all really helped me out. The NEEM worked like a CHARM. Like some of you, my eye is still kinda of wrinkled looking and I looked tired or aged now in that eye because of the wrinkles. I'm hoping this will go back to normal as skin takes a while to firm back up. I might try wrinkle cream; I just don't want to inflame whatever happened to my eye in the first place. I have been using NEEM OIL at night and lotion with NEEM OIL/NEEM LEAFS in the morning/during the day and my eye no longer swells in the morning, it looks so much better and hardly ever itches. I think I have a couple more weeks of this treatment (along with aloe lotion to sooth my skin) until my eye is back to 100% but I just wanted to let y'all know that NEEM WORKS!! It really does. Go to Whole Foods or HEB and get some!! You will be so happy you did. I just really really want to thank whoever figured out that NEEM works, THANK YOU THANK YOU. Now I just need to get rid of my wrinkles so my eyes look the same age again!!

[tootired10]

Hi!  I'm the one who figured out the neem. *takes a bow* :D  It seems that everyone here has a different trigger to the problem but I think it's safe to say that most are caused by an allergic reaction.  Why it only affects the eye lids is a mystery since many do not wear make up which could be a cause. Some may have a fungal problem and some may have a mite problem *shudders*  The biggest problem is that we get no relief from our doctors who only prescribe anti inflammatories (topical steroids) which do nothing to resolve the problem and add to a bigger problem down the line.

My advice:  Do NOT use a wrinkle cream!  They contain all kinds of ingredients to help exfoliate (retionoids, AHA/BHA acids....) and chances are great that you can not tolerate them.  They will burn your lids!! Make it worse.

You're 24 so IMO you really don't need them.  The wrinkling you're experiencing is an inflammation, not due to aging skin.  However, if your lids continue to be inflamed and you use steroids to relieve the information, you could end up like me with permanently saggy, wrinkled lids.  I'm going to be 50 so some of my wrinkling is due to age but a great deal is due to my lid problems, the stretching and steroids.

Find a emollient balm or cream that you can tolerate and use it instead of a "wrinkle cream".  You can simply use your facial moisturizer on your eyes IF this wasn't what caused the problem in the first place.  Can you tell me what your skin regimen is?  Makeup?  Some mineral makeup can cause a flareup.  I can not use Bare Minerals but can use Everyday Minerals with no problem.

Again, I just found EGYPTIAN MAGIC (balm) and I'm LOVING IT!  It is very greasy but I slap that on my lids at night, and dab it on lightly during the day and I can honestly say that this is working BETTER then NEEM for me right now.  I've  just gone back to using RENOVA (retinoid) on my face which I could no do for almost 2 years because of the problem on my lids.This week I cautiously put it on my lower lids and layered it with the EM with no problem at all!!!

Egyptian Magic is sold at Whole foods as well and I have replaced using my Dr. H eye balm with it.  It about $32 for a giant tub that will last forever!

Good luck!

[creative123]

Hi TooTired --thanks for the advice.  I picked up a tub of Egyptian Magic today at Whole Foods and test driving it now.  I have had a flare up and am 99.9% convinced that its the Differin that is a trigger.  I put a spot on my forehead and blammo--huge eye flare-up the next day.

A few questions--

Do you use the Egyptian Magic with or without Neem oil?

Do you find that once you are healed you are able to go without any neem or Egyptian Magic for a period of days?

Thanks again!  Bye!  Creative123

[tootired10]

Hi! I have replaced using Dr. H eye balm which contains neem with the EM.  Honestly, yesterday was the first day that I could not find a piece of peeling skin on my lids (yay!) so I don't dare  try to go a day without using anything, yet.  I probably won't ever stop using it at night but I will look to replace EM during the day as it I would really like to be able to wear some makeup on my eyes other than mascara and liner, which have been the only things I can currently use and both the Dr H and the EM are too greasy to hold makeup.

When you have time I suggest that you visit the "skin care board" at this site "MakeupAlley" and ask about a substitute for your Differin if you continue to have problems with it.  These ladies are incredibly skin care wise and helpful.  Also, you will find the product reviews  enormously helpful.  I never put a thing on my face or body without checking here first.

http://www.makeupalley.com/

Good luck!  I really hope that you get some relief from this awful problem.  Please let us know how the EM worked for you.

[tootired10]

Here are the MakeupAlley reviews for Egyptian Magic:
http://www.makeupalley.com/product/showreview.asp/ItemId=84453/Egyptian_Magic_Healing_Cream/Unlisted_Brand/Skincare_-_Body

[ntzmom]

I too have swollen, red, itchy and peeling eyelids (upper).  They started out by peeling, then little by little they began to swell and itch.  This morning they are oozing a little.  A friend of mine is a dermatologist, so I called his office and will be getting in to see him this afternoon. It usually takes around 6 months to get in, so I feel pretty fortunate.  I hope he is able to tell me something.  This has been going on for about 3 months. I am very interested in your discoveries of NEEM and the Egyptian Magic.  I will post what the Dr. says this afternoon.

[nataliew281]

I had  severe itching eyelid . From the eyelash line all the way to my eyebrow. I would wake at night , the itching was so bad. So i dug through my box of creams and looked at Vagisil hmmm, for itching. The ingrediants are Benzocaine and Recosin? Anyway, i tried it and it worked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was so excited. The redness went away the rough skin is getting softer, the itching is gone. Of course i kept it away from my eyeball and just dabbed a little a couple times a day. Not sure if this will work for everyone but its worth a try!
Natalie

[kkrocks]

Thanks so much on the info!! Also for the tip about mineral make up!! I do use Bare Essentials... I will be SO upset if that's the problem because I REALLY love it... I don't think it's the problem for me because I used it all throughout this process - I just stopped using my eye liner - I never used eye shadow (hardly ever - my eyes are naturally colored on my eyelids so I just don't need it) so I just stopped using my black eye-liner (I only use it on my lower lids but I've recently started putting it on the inner line of my lid closest to the eyeball. I had not used it at all since this all started and when I started using NEEM and everything got better (OH, I use NEEM lotion on my eczema as well and LOVE IT - it works so well - so thanks for that too). Anyway, after it got better and even stopped peeling mostly I used my NEW hypo-allergenic eye liner on the inner part of my lids and BOOM next day I had a flare up... Now, the only thing to keep me from thinking that the WAY I am using the make-up might be problem is that my skin regime (as far as removing make-up) has ALWAYS been - and be aware that I've ALWAYS had perfect skin (I know people will hate me for this) but even through my puberty years I never had zits, I hardly ever get them now, and the only thing I do/did to keep my skin perfect was exfoliate at night then use Vaseline intensive care lotion - that's it - I didn't wash with soap and water (except in the shower sometimes) and I would just wet a towel and kind of exfoliate off all my dead skin/make-up and put on lotion. It always worked. NOW, since this **** started I have not been able to do that process on my eye (it's ONLY my right eye - lefty has remained un-affected this whole time) so when I put that eye liner on my inner lower lid, I thought, I am back to normal now - I can do my exfoliating as normal ---- well maybe not... I do not know if it was the rubbing or the actual eye make up that did it... but I am SUPER upset now. My eye was PERFECT on Sunday and now its ****. I had to take off yesterday because it was so swollen (and I was so upset). I just wanted to give you a little more info and say THANK YOU AGAIN - I think I will go get some Egyptian Magic tonight - it sounds wonderful. Please let me know any more info you think would help me - I am SO upset over this. I really hope the wrinkles go away as I look like a lop-sided freak with one eye all messed up looking and the other is perfect. Thank you so much again!!

[tootired10]

Creative:  Sorry, my previous post was meant to answer some of your questions re:Differin

kkrocks: 1st,@#$(*&^$%#%*#!  Damn you and your fab skin!!  :D  You're one luck gal!
The only other advice I would have is to find a more gentler to remove your eye makeup right now. I have found that ANY rubbing will cause a flareup on my lids.  A washcloth would produce horrible results on mine.  If you don't want to use soap and water (I use L'Occitane Honey Bee bars) then I would suggest Huggies non scented, hypo-allergenic baby wipes.  GENTLY.  Maybe put a bit of EM on before your remove your makeup with the wipes to give a bit more slip so that there is less tugging.

I hope everyone has a less irritated eyes and great day!

[creative123]

Thanks Too Tired--no worries about the mix-up.  I really like the egyptian magic--it works without the smell of Neem.  It  work just as quickly as Neem OR steroids!!  I'm amazed!  Thanks for the rec to makeupalley--I'm actually familiar with the site and find their help invaluable.  Interesting that the makeup reviews say that egyptian magic helps with acne--I dabbed some on a spot that was rising up and it's flattened and disappearing.  Maybe I won't need differin (I'm not getting any allergic reaction to Avene's retinoids so I'll stick with that for a while).  The thing that I really like about egyptian magic is that it is all-natural and very light.  Now that I know that long-term topical steroids can cause problems, I'd far far far prefer to stay away for them all together.

KKrocks--I'm so sorry you have another flareup.  Believe me, I feel for you.  I'm wondering if it is not the eyeliner because one eye has no reaction.  On removing makeup, I've been able to use Shu Uemera's oil cleanser without any problem.  I don't need to rub, it takes all mascara and everything off.  You put it on a dry face, gently massage it into mascara--I can leave it on for a bit if I'm wearing something stubborn, then rinse with water.  There are other oil cleanser's out there, but I've been using Shu's for years so I stayed with that.  It doesn't cause acne, it actually is very effective for clearing out pores.

Have a good day! :)

[kkrocks]

tootired - thanks so much... it MUST be the rubbing :( oh well, I suppose I can deal with using soap and water - I might try the baby wipes or the oil that creative123 suggested. My eye is better today, it was only a little puffy today - it's going through the same process as before when I got it to go away so I am happy for that. I haven't been able to get any EM yet but I will try to get it today. It's so hard not to itch/rub my eyes!! GRRR

creative - thank you!! I agree it must not be the make-up at this point because, yes, my right eye (other than some itchiness) has remained unaffected. Thanks for the tip on the Shu Uemera's oil cleanser, I might give it a try - I just HATE washing my face with soap, it dries my face out more than I'm used to so perhaps an oil-based cleanser is a good idea for me.

I just can't believe how much higher maintenance this whole ordeal has made me. I used to just use water and a towel and some lotion... now I've got product out the wazoo and I'm always in the bathroom forever trying to take care of my eye :( so depressing!! But y'all have truly helped me, I would rather be high maintenance at this point than have to live with waking up to a swollen eye-lid every morning... *sigh*

We should make up a name for our affliction - since it seems we know more about it than any doctors thus far... we should get to name it!! (Just a thought)

Thanks again!!

[creative123]

I wish I knew what this was! then we could definitely pick a name.  After talking with doctors, I think mine is a combination similar to that described by another poster on this thread--I moved to a super dry weather and developed a sensitivity to Differin.  When I was misdiagnosed with Bleph, I did the opposite of what I needed to do.  Instead of moisturizing, I was scrubbing with baby shampoo which is VERY drying.  So the irritation continued for months and the skin didn't heal.  I was also using a topical antibiotic, which was in an alcohol base---again, alcohol is very drying.  

After speaking with two more doctors (and reading up on things), I'm trying to focus on two things:  1)  stop contact with the irritant;   and 2)  heal the skin from the last flare-up (realizing that this could take weeks or months, using Egyptian Magic or Neem, rather than steroids).  I hope I've isolated the irritant.  That is the most frustrating part -- not knowing if what I am doing will prevent flare-ups in the future.  

I don't think that my condition is due to any internal problem that scary internet sites refer to--the ophthalmologist was convinced it was a contact allergy.  *crossing my fingers*  It's hard to be patient!  My very best to all of you!!

[kkrocks]

Stay strong!! I feel the exact same way. I am thankful that the NEEM and EM make it a lot easier/faster to rid my eye of the swelling but the healing process takes FOREVER. My eyes are both really itchy still and I wear my glasses everyday in hopes of covering up my bad eye :( but this also causes gross flakes from my eye to get on my glasses - EMBARRASSING!!

I think if I had to name it, because I'm pretty sure mine is an allergy to something as well (and it seems like the majority of people on here are having similar allergic reactions), I would call it...  Palpebral Hypersensitivity ^_^ I am so technical haha!! Really just means having super-overly-sensitive eyelids *sigh*

I hope everyone has an itch/swell-free weekend!!

[Reddy2]

Ok.  I have found what seems like a solution for me at least that I will pass on.  First I put on Ponds washable makeup remover.  Wash off and then clean with bar soap (I use Zest).  Then you can use the Johnson's baby wash.  The crucial part of washing is to make sure you get your lashes really clean.  The baby soap alone will not do it but it will put moisturizers on your skin after all of the cleaning.  After the shower use a mild (no petrolatum) lotion.  Then makeup after the lotion dries.
I keep white vinegar in the shower as well and periodically rinse hair and body with vinegar and water.  It is a natural disenfectent and makes sure all of the soap is gone.  Great for sunburns as well (stings like heck at first and then no more burn).
Let me know how you do.

[Milamae25]

Same problem here.  Now second time during the past year!  What is this?  Both eyelids started itching, then burning, now are brioght red and swollen.  All wrinkly and puffy.  I look like I aged 20 years overnight! Aghhhh! No changes in makeup or moisturizers or food or climate...so what casues this?  How to prevent it?

[kkrocks]

1. Get some Neem and get it fast!

2. I've noticed a couple things... Egyptian Magic (EM) works WONDERS on my upper eyelids but when I use it on my lower lids they still puff a bit in the morning (not a full-on swell) but puffier than when I use Neem oil. The way I got mine to stop swelling the fastest was: I used Neem oil and EM at night (EM on upper, Neem on lower) then Neem lotion only on my lower lids during the day and  no eye liner -- no eye liner was key for me because it just causes a lot less contact with your eyes in general - less washing less touching.

3. Find the irritant... it's still there somewhere if it's happening - I thought my all-organic no-fragrance soap would do the trick... nope!! I had to get completely glycerin soap (the most bare-bones soap ever). And my eye did get better while I was still using the irritant soap so it's tricky!!

4. Keep hydrated - I use lotion SO much more now than I used to - I used to use it everyday at least once a day. Now I use like 2-3 times - in the morning, during lunch, and before bed... keeping the flakes moisturized really helps them heal - especially the upper lids.

5. Are you stressed? I think stress might have worn me down a couple times and made my swelling/itching/etc worse.

6. TEST one thing at a time. I re-introduced eye liner last Friday - because I hate dealing with the swelling in the morning before work... so Saturday I was not swollen and SO HAPPY. This Friday and I am going to re-introduce my FULL eye make-up that I used to wear and see how it turns out on Saturday. *finger's crossed*

7. Don't get upset over set-backs! I only had my one eye swelling for the longest time and I got it to stop... then it swelled again and I was upset... Then... my other eye started swelling for the first time and I was ready to just give up... but I kept with my regimen - do it EVERY DAY... it's the only way - you can't slack off - and it WILL GET BETTER. Of course all of this maintenance weans over time - now I only use Neem oil and EM at night no Neem lotion during the day - and I don't have to moisturize my upper lids more than 1-2 times per day - it eventually heals and goes back to almost normal but you should still be careful even when you think it's gone.  

8. Good luck and let me know if I can help as I know how horrible this affliction is and I've found a lot of help on this forum so I want to give back :)

I hope my info helps you.

[ImWithStupid]

Hey guys.

I am so happy I have stumbled across this site!

In the summer this problem starts, in winter my eyes are fine. I wake up on a summer morning and find that my eyelids have swollen up, and my skin looks really winkley and they itch like a *****.
I've been having this problem since last year. I even phoned in sick at work because I could not bear to go out looking all puffed up. :(
I don't think make up is the problem as this only happens in the summer.

I've not had it this year as summer is just beginning now in the UK. So I've now started using Dove sensitive bar to remove my make up now. Do you guys think this would help? Also, I use Simple eye moisturiser. I find it does not moisturise my eyes much. At night I use Vitamin E oil on my eyelids, it's very oily but it moisturises my eyelid.
Any more tips guys? I might look into buying Neem oil. Thanks for your help!

[Munchie844]

Hi,
I am a 23 year old normal male. I don't wear make up, I have never had allergies. But I do have red itchy dry eyelids and nothing seems to help. I have tried a lot of things and nothing works except hydrocortizone cream. I know that stuff is really bad to put on your eyelids but it makes the flare up go right away. I don't know what to do I just want it to be gone.
I didn't see any response on here to someone putting hydrocortizone on their eyelids so I thought I would post and see if someone knows what I should do. I have gone to a dermatologist who didn't know what it was, didn't test it for anything just told me to use aquaphor over the counter. I don't want to go back to the doctors for them to tell me to use some stupid over the counter thing again.
Please help.

[Puffy_Eyes]

Add me to the list. I'm 45, female and have indoor cats (but I've had cats my whole life). I've had the inflamed swollen red eyelids on and off since last August 2008.  It's driving me crazy.  I've read all the posts here and I too am amazed at how many people are dealing with this.  The last week it has been worse than ever.  I've spent so much money trying different things and having nothing work.  Today in desperation I bought the Egyptian Magic cream.  I'm actually experimenting with it because both my eyes are hideous.  So I have EM on one eye and plain Vitamin E oil on the other.  The EM eye does feel better and but is only slightly less swollen and red than the vitamin E eye so far.  Luckily the worst outbreaks so far have happened on the weekend when I can stay in and keep my eyes slathered.

Letting the shower with cool water run across my eyes like a little massage does bring some relief and reduces the swelling a little.  Cold compresses did nothing though.

Thank you to everyone for sharing your experiences!  I'll try and check back and let you all know if the EM works any better than the Vitamin E.

[kkrocks]

Huge set-back today... right eye was swollen this morning. I don't know why!! The only thing I changed was putting EM on my upper AND lower lids instead of just upper - and no Neem Oil... I guess it was too early... maybe my eye is addicted to Neem now? WTF!! I am really upset and the wrinkles just keep getting deeper but I'm not giving up. The swelling went WAY down during the day but the wrinkles remain. It's back to Neem Oil tonight... again, WTF. So annoyed by this ****!!

[lucymom717]

I have the same symptoms as all you guys.  I bought neem and em.  But I am also taking an antihistamine.  I am taking 24 hour claritin TWICE a day.  I am almost healed, but could not have made it through without the Claritin.  I thought I was gonna claw my eyes out for a couple of nights.  I have not had this happen since 2000.  I was tested and found to be allergic to cobalt yet none of my makeup products contained cobalt.  Go figure.  
Thanks for the neem oil suggestion.  

[bw222]

Wow ...as I sit here trying not to rub my eyes I am amazed how many are afflicted with this. I have only had this for a week and it is driving me crazy. Does anyone have bumps in the are from lid to brow? Whole area is itchy,red and swollen.Thanks

[tootired10]

So sorry but welcome to the club bw222.  read back on the posts in this thread.  There is some good advice here.

If you have bumps it's most likely hives.  In addition to remedies listed here you "may" need a day or two of cortisone to get the hives and itching under control but cortisone is bad for your lids over an extended period of time so be careful.

Try to find what triggered it and remove it. Most of us can't find our trigger but we manage it and try to live with it.

Good luck to you.

[Jesizadie]

i have the same symptoms, i have excema on my eyelids, (itchy, puffy and sometimes flakey), it may be the same thing, i treat it with Eledel, and at the first sign of a flare up i apply a little and hardly ever have problems

[Jesizadie]

and u nivea creme so your eyelids arent so dried out :)

[BBW08]

This is some seriously aggrevating ****. Just got through reading every thread on here and now just back from whole foods with neem oil, tea tree oil, homepathic eye drops and omega 3 vitamins.
This is the second time this has happened in 2 weeks. First time I went to the doc and got a cortisone shot in the butt and antibiotic cream for my eyes. I needed a quick fix because I was going on my anniversary trip to florida and was determined to look like I HAD slept in the past 3 years!
Once in floirda (2 days later) the swelling was much better (we were there 5 days). Three days afte returning, so did the swelling and with avengeance! This time the itching and reddness much worse than the first time.
I am 28 years old (female) and have suffered with seasonal allegies my entire life. I have had chronically dry eyes, but never anything remotely similar to this. I have had allergy testing in the past that proved my seasonal allergies (pollen, etc) and that I am slight allergic to cats. I have one dog and have had dogs my entire life. I highly doubt it is makeup related (makeup usually makes it feel better - props to all you brave souls who go without, as i am not one :)
Anyway, that's my story and I will post my progress on neem, tea tree and drops... and whatever else I can get my hands on.
BBW08

[cj1980]

I'm so excited! People that have the same thing as me. I knew I wasn't a special case or anything, but I'm so glad people have the same frustrations.

I have been treated for: dermatitis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, hay fever, contact dermatitis and, while I believe there might be a combination of the things, the drugs they've pumped me full of just plain don't work.  I've taken Advair and Pulmicort (for asthma), elidel (causes cancer, btw), flonase, claritin, claritin d, zyrtec, zyrtec d, Xyzal (which did seem to help with regular seasonal allergies), elocon, hydrocortisone, eucerin, otc eye drops, flonase, and various other drugs, none of which have worked worth a hoot.

Here's the symptoms: dry, red, itchy eyes, swelling in the morning (some relief with cold compresses and manual lymph drainage of the neck and face), sinus pressure, mucous build-up in nasal passages, watering eyes, rash on face and neck, non-acne papule-type bumps (not hives), hives (occasionally). I don't have problems with it over winter, typically, only spring/summer. I know I have some allergies, but the skin testing didn't show anything. "My a$$," is what I have to say about that.

No changes in makeup, don't wear contacts, have dog and cat but wash hands after touching and they are with me during my couple months of non-flare-ups so they aren't the culprit, no changes in cleaning habits, use only vinegar and biokleen to clean with in flare-ups and during long periods of being fine, no changes to laundry soaps (use frag free, non-petroleum only), etc. Once it flares I know I have no hope of calming it down, despite being conscious of not scratching it.  I know when the little cottony things fly around in the air that it'll flare up (happening for 2-3 years) and then, Hello itchy eyes off and on all summer long through the fall.  Son of a you-know-what.  I may try the neem and see how that goes. It's just crazy because once the first big flare happens, something as simple as washing my face will set off the reaction and it's a nasty cycle.  

But all that said, I'm so happy other people like me are around!

[pojj31]

I'm so happy to see that I'm not the only one with this problem! Does anyone else here use bare minerals? I've been using it for four years and the flare-ups started about three years ago but (like some others) only in the summer. It never occurred to me that it could be the culprit until reading kkrock's post.I'm going to stop using it for a bit and see what happens. It's usually been just my upper eyelids and a small spot on my neck but the past few days my cheeks have been itching too. Right now now my whole face looks red and blotchy and feels horrible. Most lotion burns, sometimes even the unscented natural stuff that I normally use. I've tried cortaid, allergy meds, vaseline, and about 8,000 kinds of "soothing" lotion. I'm going to try this NEEM stuff everyone's talking about. Thanks for the advice!

[tls759]

Wow, thought I was the only one dealing with this.  It all started in April when I came in contact with smoke (believe the neighbors burned poison ivy), stressed from work, moving, studying, and single parenting my 7 year old son.  Started out as bumps along my jaw line, then broke out all over my neck, face, back and hands.  I've tried a ton of creams, eucerin is the only one that doesn't burn.  Now I have extremely itchy red HOT eyelids, usually at night.  I've started seeing an acupuncturist, which seems to help, slowly.  He recommended not using anything that contains sodium laureyl sulfate, hard to find any products without it, it's even in mascara.  I'm going to look into Neem oil and Em.  So glad I found this site.

[cj1980]

So far the steroids and neem have worked well. One word of caution about Neem, in case you haven't read up on it, is that if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it's probably better to avoid it. Some reference is made in the neem oil wikipedia article. It's a good place to start research if this is a concern for you. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neem_oil

[cj1980]

*sorry, avoid in internal forms

[BBW08]

I have tried the neem (lotion form - not the pure oil) and I am still having issues. My eyelids are still swollen but the good news is the don't itch anymore. The neem seems to sting a little at first and then subsides. Have also been appling vitamin E to prevent dryness and that has worked really well. No instant cure yet, but all symptoms are slowly subsiding. Well keep updating (on day 3 of flareup). How often does everyones flare ups usually last? And how long in between flare ups usually? I can't wait for this to go away!

[PhilaJoe]

My wife has been struggling wtih this condition for about 8 weeks now.  She had all her cosmetics tested by an allergist with no results, then was tested for food with no results, and just saw the derm today who said he had no idea what it was and suggested she stop wearing her make up for 3 weeks.  There's a solid piece of medical advice, when in doubt, stop the make-up.  I'm picking up some NEEMs on the way home to try tonight...thanks for the suggestion, I let you know how it goes.  

[Kaprizulka]

yes i have a same problem..that start like 3 weeks ago..swollen eyelids with red trim like a eyeliner and its each lil bit too...but i think i found it why its doing that.
first i thought its my new eye cream that coses this..then i stop using it ...but problem was still there..there i thought maybe its some kinda infection from my mascara..so stop using that too...and then OMg i figure all out.
That problem been cause by  Nail Polish!(dang..)
i took my accrilic gel nails off like 2-3 weeks ago and i been wearing them for years.
so i put nail polish on..then next day my eyelids was swollen and red..ok to make  long story short here is the link to the video i found on you tube..its will explane it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayk14HfP7Oc

[kkrocks]

First off, SO sorry this has happened to you!! I feel your pain, trust me.

Update: I AM SYMPTOM FREE!! I have been since a week after my last post. Yay!!

What I found out: it was totally Bare Minerals Make up that did it to me... I am so EFFING MAD about this. I loved that ****. Anyway, pojj31, go get some Everyday Minerals - its does not make me flare up and I think it looks better too :) matches my skin better and its all natural ingredients - did I mention cheaper too?? Yay!! I hope this helps you.

Kaprizulka - I thought it might be my nail polish too but I tried going without nail polish for about two weeks (which KILLED me) and I still flared all up. I've never had fake nails and I've been painting my own nails since I was old enough to do it. Though, I have heard that nail polish can cause reactions so thanks for making that point.

Also - I've been using all natural glycerin soap this helps and does not dry out my skin.

Since I got rid of my Bare Minerals and EVERYTHING it's touched (I cleaned my make up brushes and replaced one brush, got a new make up bag and THREW AWAY all Bare Minerals make up) I have not had ONE SINGLE flare up!! Here's hoping it stays that way.

Please let me know if I can help anyone with info and stuff - I no longer need NEEM on my eyes or EM - the wrinkles are almost gone completely and I only use lotion once a day now as I used to. I would NEVER have gotten through this without the advice on this board and NEEM!! I love NEEM (though I did hear that about it killing sperm/the pregnancy problem - I think you have to ingest like really high doses of NEEM for that to happen - or like ... spread it down there... for it to work, it is a pesticide after all!! Haha) Thanks so much guys and I'll be checking in!!

[tootired10]

YAY!

I'm very happy for you.That darn BE is the devil! Everyday Minerals is the way to go!  

I hope you remain symptom free.
I had a flare-up this week.  bah.  Not too bad but still.......

FYI everyone-  My routine remains as is morning and evening.

wash with L'Occatain Honey bee bars
apply Lubriderm "Anti-itch" (discontinued!!!! :-O)
apply Egyptian Magic on lids

I no longer use Neem unless I have a flare-up otherwise the above keeps me in good shape.

[kkrocks]

Thanks!! I actually started using Everyday Minerals because of your post and I LOVE IT!! I got the "tea time" blush and it's so cute ^_^

Anyway, I'm sorry you had a flare up :( but I'm glad you no longer have to use the anti-itch lotion!!

Keep us updated and, again, thanks so much for your help/info!!

[steph8062]

I just started having these same symtoms two weeks ago i used maximum strength neosporin + pain relief and that helped with the peeling and itching right after I put it on I used it for two days and the symtoms went away then it came back last night and even worse this morring I put the neo on again but you are suppose to go to the doc after a week of using it. So before calling I tried the internet and it seems usseless to go to the doc. after eveything I read. I'm going to try the athlete foot cream first, on another forum a girl went to the doc. and she said it was fugal & the foot cream worked and it never came back, then I will try  the neem I guess. I hope I don't have to deal with this forever. I'm 31 I have had cats since I was a kid I have always wore covergirl makeup and the only thing I have done different is I just joined a gym & I use the sauna & the pool. You would think we would all have something in common! Oh well good luck ev1 I'm gonna check out that You tube video now.

[sfgirl234]

Hi guys,

I am new here, and have been reading this forum for a while looking for answers.
Same problem here- waking up with red swollen eyelids, itching sensation, and during the day it would go down. Also went to the doctor, who said it was blepharitis, blah blah blah....

Anyway, I think I found an allergen!!!! EGGS!!!!

Google symptoms of egg allergy and you will see "swollen eyelids, dry skin around the mouth"

I have stopped eating eggs and egg products (mayo, cakes etc) and the problem have NOT RETURNED.

I hope this helps. I was really suffering with this problem, to the point of not being able to go in public, and I hope this will be an answer to some of you!!

Good luck!

[creative123]

It's been several weeks so I thought I would check in. I'm so happy for all of you that have identified the allergy.  I'm doing great.  No flare-ups since identifying that the product I was using for a full YEAR was causing my problems (in my case differin).  It took me eight weeks to accept that I WAS dealing with an allergy -- I was on my fourth doctor by then.  I don't look a million years old anymore.  I've even found substitutes that don't cause the allergic reaction.

For some reason it was so hard for me to realize that I could BECOME allergic to something that I was using all along.   Instead I was looking for something "NEW" that was causing my flare-ups, the truth was I had to stop using EVERYTHING to isolate the irritant.  

I wish you all continued good health!

[eyesuffer]

the area surrounding my entire eye is red, itchy, swollen, wrinkled, etc. i have been dealing with this for some time and am tired of looking 25 years older than i am ! anyway, i purchased EM, Neem oil and Neem lotion. Will you please clarify where on your eyelids you place these as I have problems with the area UNDER my eyes as well. Thank you !

[wmpb]

My problem is an allergy to hair color.  I am a cosmetologist (15yrs now) and have been coloring my hair since I was 17 (crazy 80's hair) with no problems ever.  Then out of the blue at the age of 37 after a treatment my lower left eye lid swelled up.  At the same time a client/friend used the same type of color and had the same reaction.  I thought we got a bad batch but she told me that she had this problem for a while and was doing the Blepharitis treatment with little effect.  
At first I did not want to think it was the color, because life without hair color is a hell on earth.  Second why would this happen all of a sudden.  So I went to the doctor.
3 drs. over the last 3 years have told me I have Blepharitis.  When I tell them I think it is the hair color they all looked at me like "I'm the dr and this is what I say it is". At first I tried the steroid/baby shampoo treatment (because what do I know.  It's only my head that I look at every day. Why would that give me cause to think I might have a better insight to my condition).  The steroids help at first then the shampoo seemed to make things worse.  After doing research on the steroids I stopped using it. I also started keeping track of when the flare ups would happen and yes after each color treatment it would get inflamed again. It did not matter what color company I would use.
So after lots of research and help from other women on this forum I decided to start using herbal color.  Within 8 week my symptoms are completely gone and I have found the herbal color is superior in quality than the customary product. Bonus!
I have also noticed that no one has given hair color a thought.  So if nothing else works try the herbal hair color and see if that makes a difference.
Hope I helped someone
Good luck in your search because this condition *****!

[kkrocks]

In response to your question… to clarify:

Before I got EM, I would put Neem Oil on my LOWER eyelids at night only (as close to the eye as I could get but BE CAREFUL, it STINGS). I used a Q-Tip. I would also put Neem lotion on my upper eyelids (I only did this for a while as it REALLY dried them out after a few nights and the itching went away very quickly once I started putting Neem lotion on them). I would do this every night with the Neem oil on my lower lids.

Then in the morning, I would put the Neem lotion on my lower lids only (I would used aloe lotion on my top lids to sooth them because they were way more sensitive than my lower lids). I would continue to apply Neem lotion to the lower lids and aloe lotion to the upper lids during the day periodically when I felt itching or whenever. Everyday.

Then when I got EM, my regimen only changed slightly - at night only - I would put EM on my upper lids instead of Neem lotion because it was less abrasive and did not dry out my upper lids as much as the Neem lotion (but it's OILY so I only used it at night). I tried putting some EM on my lower lids instead of the Neem oil but (and this is just my experience, some people had more luck with EM than I did), the EM would inflame my lower lids and make them hurt. The EM worked wonders on my upper lids but only Neem oil worked for my lower lids. The day-time regimen stayed the same.

Overall: any oily stuff, do it at night, any lotions are for the day... that way you can get away with not looking TOO weird while treating it... eventually (and especially after I found my trigger chemical/product), these daily treatments tapered off... I got down to only using aloe lotion and Neem oil at night and aloe lotion during the day to moisturize. Then after a while of that, I only had to use aloe lotion and eventually... my eyes were back to normal!! Right now I am just waiting for the wrinkles to go back down (they've faded a bunch already)...

I hope this helps... Hang in there!!

[HarleyChik]

My eyes recently staring becoming severly itchy, red and swollen....I thought to myself WTF. All I knew is it about to drive me CRAZY!!!! Especially at night as you were all saying. As im sitting here at the computer my eyelids are swelling more and more an itching more an more. I have not yet called the Dr. as I wanted to look this up on the computer and I found this website!!!!( Glad I did), but not sure what this NEEM lotion is that everyone talks about. Please tell me where I can purchase this at so I can start relieving my poor eyes....I love this site and will bookmark it so I can come back to see if  any of you answered my question. Please help as I can't stand it much more!!!!

Diane in Michigan

[eyesuffer]

thank you so much for the clarification ! i hope it helps ! for Harleychik...i bought the EM and Neem products at "Henry's". Good luck !

[gretchen99]

I have always had this problem when I got near formaldehyde. however a few weeks ago the pool guy told me that my salt generator was not working and he put chlorine in my pool  I swam in the chlorine treated pool and felt my lips felt funny kind of tight. Then a week later Im at the nail salon and the women uses her formaldehyde polish on me when I wasnt looking.  Big flare up 24 hrs later.  It started to go down in the next few days then I had 2 alcoholic drinks and fried chicken. Whoa worse flare up ever the redness is all over my face.  My eyelids have never been this itchy and when I wake up my lids are huge.  I am not presentable.  I am using neem oil but I keep getting it in my eye.  What are you all finding the culprit to be??

[RK1126]

Okay, I have been dealing with this problem off and on for about 20 years.  Started in my early 20's and I would get rid of it for a few years and then it would come back.  This may sound silly, but I figured out when I ate a tootsie roll I would have a bad reaction and thus red itchy eyes again.  I haven't had a break out for about 5 years and just recently I started eating protein bars.  I have had a HUGE problem again for about a month or so.  I read the ingredients this morning on tootsie rolls and my protein bars and there are alot of the same ingredients used in both products.  
I had not had a protein bar all week and was totally cleared up until yesterday I tried one of my sons bars and sure enough by the afternoon I was red, itchy and swollen.  I look like H_ _ L this morning.  I am miserable and thats why I found this great site.  You have all been so helpful and I am off to Henry's this morning to pick up some EM and Neem to see if this will help. No more protein bars!!  The only thing that I am concerned about is the lady with the egg reaction.  I have been on a high protein, low carb program and have been eating a couple of boiled eggs every morning.....Could that also be an issue???  So I will have no eggs and no protein bars and then slowly try one in a couple weeks and see if I react.
You all are definately better than any doctor I have ever been to!!!  
Thanks a million for all the info.  I love this... You guys are GREAT!!  
Take care and good luck,  Rhonda K.

[GG1128]

I also went to the doctor, who said it was blepharitis, and I have been treating my eyelids for over a year with hot a compress twice a day. I haven't been able to wear eye makeup for awhile because of the redness and the swelling. AAAGGHHHH
I've switched make-up, face soaps and creams etc. etc., but to no avail.

After reading this blog last week, I went and purchased Neem Seed Oil at the health food store and in 5 days, EVERYTHING has cleared up,
NO REDNESS, NO SWELLING AND NO FLAKES!!!!!
Stings like **** when you get it IN your eyes, but it is SO much better.
I LOVE this stuff, thanks to all for sharing.!!

[alicehere]

Hello there, I as well had very very itchy eyelids and would swell up in the morning. I had it for about 3 weeks with the dryness going on and off. One week it just went really dry and really swollen. My boyfriends mom is a registered nurse and advised me to use Hydrocrotizone you can pick up that treatment anywhere such as walmart, walgreens CVS. She advised me to get the 0.5% one since i was using it on the eyelid. The next day I saw improvement and the swelling had gone down. You shouldn't use the hydrocortizone over 7 days, I used it for about 3-4 days and after it seemed to have healed I use Neem Oil& Leaf cream. Now i noticed around the area that it seems to have darkened in color a little bit it feels fine and everything but i just want to know if its normal, and also is it safe for me to wear eyeliner, eyeshadow and mascara? PLEASE REPLY THANK YOU

[acure]

My eyelids have been swollen and itchy for a couple months.  I've started taking Claritin full-time but that doesn't seem to help.  My doctor gave me steroids just to make me feel better and that did the trick.  But two weeks later all symptoms came back.  I'm going to go get EM today, fingers crossed.  I'm wondering if anyone who had the swelling had their eyelids pretty much fold over.  I'm 30 and my eyes look so aged now.  My left eye is much worse than the right and I can see an actual fold in my eyelid skin.  Think the EM will help "reverse" this???

[shannie1231]

hello...ive been reading your forum here to see if anyone figured out where this is coming from. i have had this for a couple weeks...off and on and i dont know where it comes from. i do know that tobradex eye ointment works well. im a nurse anesthetist, so i can get it from the OR pretty easily, but i would recommend it to all of you. it takes the redness and pain away as soon as you put it on and then i use loratadine antihistamine pills for the swelling which works over a couple hours. usually the next day its all gone and i dont get it again for a bit...i guess till i come in contact with my allergen. i did have a stressful day today and that may be causing this. who knows. just thought i'd pass the Tobradex ointment along to all of you because it works and has no burning associated with applying it. thanks and good luck to you all,  shannon w.

[essie05]

This has been a very helpful site in the past and I wanted to pass on a tip that I got from here a while back. Aloe vera sunburn lotion/cream. The one I have is a green gel and it works great to relieve the itching and get rid of the redness.

I had forgotten that nail polish could be a trigger and wouldn't you know it? I painted my nails on Saturday for the first time since February and by Monday my eye was acting up again, I dismissed it, kinda forgot about the swelling itching that was about to occur since its been a while and lo and behold, this morning, I'm full blown tomato eye! Washed it with baby shampoo (another thought, I followed someone else's tip and did a hot compress marathon months ago where I kept repeating the process (kept changing the washcloth also every couple of hours) over and over for about 8 hours and the next day I had greatly reduced the swelling versus just doing it once a night as I usually did) so washed with baby shampoo, dried with a clean towel applied a dab of aloe vera gel and I've been ok for the last 5 hours, unfortunately, I didn't bring to work with me and I will have to wait to get home to repeat process. But yep, I think my trigger is nail polish.

I hope this helps someone.

[gaild415]

I too am suffering from this horrible thing.  I am a young 46 years old and also have a dog...found out I am allergic to dust mites...but doctors don't have a clue if that's causing this...My eyes are nearly swallen shut in the morning with my right eye worse.  The eye lids and around the eye is agitated, red, dry, and wrinked, when I go running then tend to water profusely - total bummer.  Have tried steriod cream, aloe cream, antihistimine drops, claritan, zertac, you name it, nothing!  just bought EM, and Neem will try these as well. I never used to have this problem, used to live on East Coast, now live in Marin County, CA!  Wondering where everyone else lives who is getting this...Bay Area?
Also anyone taking any other medication or has anyone had the Lasik eye surgery perhaps?  I have.  And I take synthroid...Wondering if it could be from any of these...Also use an estradoil patch...Anyone else?
It might be helpful if we could find a common link.
Dog or Cat?
Bay Area?
Medications?
Other allergies?

[gaild415]

Oh, and I saw the you tube video saying it is nail polish but I don't use nail polish so go figure... I do have french manicured toe nails but haven't had them done for months...and is supposed to be a green nail polish place so I don't htink any formaldihide....ugh

[essie05]

Well I'm not in the bay area, actually Midwest, I don't have a dog or cat, don't have any other allergies, I did watch the YouTube video, I really think mine is caused by that or maybe its strictly blue eye shadow, I also wore blue eye shadow last two times I got it and I had polished my nails too. I'm going to wait til I have no weekend engagements and do a test to see which is the trigger but for right now I'm happy to say that the aloe vera, baby shampoo and hot compress have worked immediately, also  I really refrained from touching my eye this time around, I think that since the aloe vera controlled the itching it helped with that.

[Swoo32]

Thank god I found this!! I too, was told I had blepheritis (sp?) and have been suffering for years! Just when I think I have a handle on it (by not wearing eyeliner), my eyelids either swell or hurt like h*ll for no apparent reason (no makeup worn)! I can't figure it out. I know makeup plays a BIG role with me, but there are many occassions when I MUST wear eyeliner and such. So I take the risks and sometimes I'm in pain for days later and others not.
I've been going through the worst flare-up now though. I just moved into my own home, and ever since I've been there, my eyes have been irritated. I wore eye shadow (but no liner) 1 night and my eyes have been swollen ever since (5 days now). It's never been this bad. I'm wondering if something in my house is causing my eyes to be worse? It's very hot in my bedroom at night when I sleep (even with the a/c set at 68) so I don't know if that could be a problem? I'm defo going to go out and buy the products that have been suggested tho!
It's strange to me tho, cause if you have blogged oil ducts, you'd think that oil is the last thing you'd want to put on them? I'm up for anything tho, I can't take this anymore.

[Swoo32]

Has anyone found that switching from soft water to hard water with a softner has caused your eyelids to be more irritated? My eyelids have been flaky (and swollen every other day) for 2 weeks now....ever since I moved into my new home, with different water.

[Neemy974]

I have the same problem and I'm so thankful I found this site!!!
Where can I buy Neem Oil?? CVS pharmacy or Lunds?? Please help. :)

[curlytop40]

I was so excited when I found this forum and saw possible help/solutions.  Sadly the Neem oil and Egyptian Magic had no effect whatsever on my itchy and swollen eyelids.  This is a little scarry for me because I had this same thing happen around 1997-98. I went through a battery of allergy tests at the Cleveland Clinic and all was determined was that I was allergic to Nickel. So I eliminated that from my life, but that really wasn't the problem. Sad thing is no one could tell me what I was allergic to or what was causing it. I got a bunch of reasons... severy mold allergy, pollen, El Nino related allergens, etc.  It stopped by itself once winter began.  That entire summer and fall were pretty much spent on prednisone and indoors.  A few years later I felt the saggy eyelids weren't really going to go away after that much stretching and shrinking so I had plastic surgery and had the excess skin removed.  All was fine until early August 2009 when it started again.  Itchy eyelids and constant touching/scratching lead to swollen eyelids and eventually scaling and dryness and redness and a raw tender feeling.   The anxiety that I was feeling because of this happening again was affecting everything in my life. Hydroxyzine helped with that.  Also, because I did the most damaged to my eyes while I slept, it helped me sleep deeper and through the night.

When I turned 40, I decided to treat myself to MAC Cosmetics...foundation, eye shadow, etc.  I know, crazy considering the problems I'm having, but I couldn't talk myself out of it.  Plus, I never felt this was caused by makeup- I never changed anything before the problem started.

At the store, the sales guy saw my scaly dry skin around my eyes and recommended Moisturelush Eye Cream A29 to help rehydrate the skin.  He said slather it on real heavy and in a week the skin will look better.  I didn't expect a miracle but was hoping for one and let's face it- I've chased every possible solution (Aquafor, vaseline, Neem oil, Egyptian Magic, hemorroid cream, hydrocortizone cream, ponds cream, cetaphyl, neutrogena moisturizers, plus some more I can't recall anymore) anyone has ever mentioned- so why not!
Anyway, I don't know if this stuff is so thick that it created a barrier to what was bothering me or if the ingredients are magical and didn't aggravate my sensitive skin, but it worked.  My eyes healed in 2 days and they don't itch anymore.  
17 days and counting and all is well.   The folds in my upper lids are gone too. I'm so grateful for that-having had expensive surgery to correct the problem the first time- I can't afford to do that again.

[ayesha89]

i have a HUGE problem. according to my eye doctor the glands in my left eye lid have swollen due to which the eye appears much smaller. he suggested ht compress. iv been doing it for past 4 days but it does not seem to work. what should i do? any ointments for reducing such swelling quickly?

[Luci818]

I went to the doctor a few weeks back, because for months my eyes were red, really red inside, I was using visine drops like there was no tommorow, just though I was having a reaction to allergies (seasonal) went to the eye dr. he gave me Lotimax, tok the redness away, but then the outer parts of my upper and lower lids got swollen, redness inside went away ( looks like old lady eyes ) stopped wearing contacts and makeup, said I could be having a reaction to the cotacts, went to the emergency room when they were almost swollen shut, they seem to go down during the day if I put ice on them, but the ice is also drying them out, but in the morning they are at their worst, they look "saggy" like i am an old woman, this is depressing the hell out of me, have missed 3 days of work, cause I am too embarassed to go in looking like a monster, what should I do, going to see the family dr. next, can't stand this any longer, was taking benadryl, not helping, just making me tired, they itch like hell right at the eyelash point.  PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!  

[crafty_lady]

I dealt with this same problem periodically for years.  I finally narrowed the culprit down to aspartame.  It's an artificial sweetener found in many foods, drinks, gum, etc. (i.e. diet cokes, light yogurt).  As soon as I cut it out of my diet, my eye allergy stopped appearing.  It may not be the trigger for everyone, but some of you may want to look into it.   I know how awful this is to deal with so I hope this helps.  

[Luci818]

Just got back from the family Dr. he says it is not from wearing my contacts, or pink eye or blephertis, but Still cannot pinpoint exactly, I live in Philly right now ragweed is for allergy sufferers, I do have allergies to many things, but he said it would not cause my eyes to itch, swell up and turn red only on the outsides, he gave me pataday drops, he prescribed me a steroid cream to go inside my eye, you actually get scared to try anything else, for fear it will make them even more swollen, looks like as I said, only lady wrinkly, saggy eyes, which normally I do not have!!  Very frustrating, also said I have dry eye, have to take optive up to 6x a day, what a pain in the butt!!  I have not been able to wear any eye makeup, or my contacts, have worn eye liner, mascara since I was a teenager, is it possible to "suddenly" become sensitive to these things, someone said it could be eyeliner, but I have worn that as well since I was a young girl, scared to do anything at this point, I am allergic to cats, dogs, birds, and dust, flowers, etc, but for years I was not having problems at all with allergies, go figure!!!!!!

[greenallykat]

I'm more terrified that even if this goes away, the wrinkling will end up being permanent, or just never go back to how it was. It's horrible because I have amazing genes on both sizes for good skin with no wrinkles, to be doomed to EARLY wrinkles that look worse than my 50 year old mother. I've worked preventatively on getting wrinkles even when I was very very young, staying out of the sun, sun block, away from smoke blah blah, only for all that hard work to be shat all over in  mere months of this ****. This is terrible someone please say their skin has bounced back from this wrinkle wise. I just got egyptian magic cream in the mail today, praying it works.

[eyelidhelp]

I'm so glad I found this forum! I, too, have been dealing with swollen, itchy, cracked eyelids on and off for about 3 years.

The problem first occured a few years ago randomly. I had gone a couple weeks without wearing eyeshadow and when I wore it again, I got the symptoms described above. I thought I may be allergic to my eyeshadow or that it somehow got bacteria on it, so I threw it out and purchased new eyeshadow. Same thing happened. I switched brands to a hypoallergenic one and again, swollen, itchy and cracked eyelids. I thew out my old eyeshadow applicators and brushes and bought new ones. Still happened!

I thought maybe it was my eyeliner or foundation or mascara. But after I went a few days just wearing those three (both by themselves and together), I was fine so long as I didn't wear eyeshadow. I thought maybe it was my nail polish. But even when I wear my nail polish I'm okay. My eyelid problem seems to only happen when I wear any eyeshadow. I've worn eyeshadow since my teens, so how is it that I'm all of a sudden allergic to any and all eyeshadow???

I went to 2 dermatologists and both gave me a prescription for a light hydrocortizone and both thought it was "something" I'm doing or touching that is causing this to happen. Real specific... I know. But I haven't switched cleansers, shampoos or products that would introduce a new chemical reaction on my eyelids. I'm using all the same stuff I have been well before I started experiencing this problem.

I thought maybe it's blepharitis and i've been doing the home cleansing w/ baby shampoo. But it doesn't seem to be helping when I wear eyeshadow.

Anyone else having similar issues?

[sampson1024]

I just happened to stumbled onto this site as I'm desperate to find some help for my eyes.  I have had itchy, red, scaly eyes for at least 10+ years and have gone to several eye doctors who all gave me the diagnosis of blepharitis.  I have used steroid ointment on eyelids more than I should but cannot find anything else to help me.  Now even this doesn't seem to help.  I have tried using baby oil to clean my lids but this seems to irritate my eyes even more.  I even went to a dermatologist yesterday which was a waste of my time and money because she basically did nothing and wanted me to spend more money having my skin tested for allergies.  I'm very careful about not wearing makeup.  I'm embarrassed to go out but have to with my red eyes and now my chin has a red rash and the dermatologist says it's the same issue I have with my eyes even though she never really looked at it that closely or tested it.  I'm interested in anything to try to get my eyes back to normal...

Kath (sampson1024)

[Amy864]

Hi... Thank you all for all these great comments... It helped me a lot. I was freaking out because I never had any problems with my eyes and I was really worried...
Thank you very much!!!!!!

[superstarjody]

I have had this prob on and off for a couple of years. I find it's like an eczema which flares when stressed or sick.
I recently had a sinus infection which made me SO sick! It took 6 weeks, 3 rounds of antibiotics, steriods, X-rays and a cough from hell. I actually had to stop the car on the road when driving in order to cough safely! Anyway, this nearly killed me and now that I am better I have this. Interestingly I suspect it is hay fever and eczema combined with fatigue which is causing it. I am currently taking Zantac which over the course of the day helps the itch. I have been using Aveeno cream on my eyes nightly for moisturisation. When the eczema flares I use a tiny amount of cortisone 1% to reduce the breakout. Eczema responds to 1) cortisone to reduce inflammation and 2) moisture to prevent the dryness which starts off the prob in the first place. If you have not tried Aveeno, it's great! Good starting point. Anyway, I am going to give the Neem oil a try - have ordered online this am as well as the Dr H cream. You guys have cost me a small fortune but I'll try anything! I love my makeup and hate the eye prob. Want to look and feel good again. It is Spring here so I am blaming this at this stage.

[srenee615]

Hello! I was very stoked to find this site! The past three months I also have been suffering with this bizarre condition. Mine started with red, dry, itchy patches around both eyes. Certain mornings I would wake up with the swelling also. When I do have the swelling I spend at least a half hour with ice packs on my eyes (who has time for this?!!) The only thing I put on my lids was  aloe vera from a plant. I didn't want to do steroids. I noticed the swelling and redness were severe mornings after I had alcohol the night before. I have rarely had seasonal or contact allergies or this type of skin problem and wear virtually no makeup in the summer and hadn't changed anything. I beleive this problem was internal inflammation. I also believe the body heals itself from the inside out. I did some research on the internet and decided to do a 3 day apple and fresh juice fast. (I was desperate to get rid of this) I am two days out of the fast and  the condition is 90% better!! Unfortunatley people can be allergic to anything and develope allergies to anything at any time. This makes it difficult to find out what is causing this. My opinion is that if you can't find anything externally that is an allergen, think about foods and overall health. I had it so bad when I started the 3 day apple fast I could barely blink my eyes and the skin around them was bright red, flaky and burned horribly. If you decide to explore the fasting option, please do some research on fasting (for instance, don't do it if you have major health problems) I just wanted to share my experience in case it may help someone. I am going to continue to really watch what I eat and try to be healthier. I hope all of you find what heals you!!

[JDL27]

So many of you !! On and off for maybe 10 months I have suffered with really itchy upper lids (mainly the right) The problem seems to be just in the crease ? Also under the eye has gone really swollen and then when it goes down it so wrinkly and puffy. I too wear BE foundation and think I might try the everyday minerals somebody mentioned.  I also have indoor cate but have had them for nearly six years so not sure it's them.  I hope swapping the makeup helps they look terrible :0(

[ladysedona]

This is creepy!  It is yet another dis-ease of the 21st century.  I am 58 and for 58 years never had any kind of allergy affecting my eyelids.  Now it appears every 10 days to 2 weeks.  It takes about 3 days to swell and itch to its worst, then about 3 days to de-swell and de-itch back to normal, then of course about 3 more days for all the wrinkling to go away.  I have used Benzocaine non-itch cream and oil.  It only seems to relieve it and it has to run its course like a cold.  What is creepy is that these sort of things are coming up more frequently and affecting more and more people and the doctors don't have a clue what it is.  So what if it is "just" our environment, or something in our water, and humans will just have to live with it?  Nobody can find a specific cause.  I thought it was related to my digestion but as soon as I have a food item I think is causing it and I'm going without that, it comes up again.  

[ladysedona]

P.S.
Thanks for the NEEM and Egyptian Magic suggestions.  I'm going to get one.  ALSO, a friend who's a nurse said it could be due to lack of sunlight.  I've read we should face the sun at least 20 minutes a day.  I had forgotten that and have not been doing that.  

[justeyes]

Do any of you by chance drink Budweiser?  It has changed hands and maybe formulas.  RSVP

[greenallykat]

Ugh, I think I might be allergic to olive oil, which is in the egyptian magic. I tried the EM on my eye lids and the got even more itchy and then got hives all over. Put that away for a few weeks then tried to just use extra virgin olive oil as a scrub for the rest of my face....hives everywhere. I guess I'll try to neem oil. My eyes are so scaley and itchy with no relief. I have to just num them to death with ice just so I can get to sleep. I'm rubbing the **** out of my eyes and I feel like its damaging the skin so badly that these 'swollen wrinkles' will never go away. I need help :(

[tootired10]

Grrrrrrrr.  IT'S BAAAAAAAAACK!

Wow, after being symptom free I'm having a full blown episode and nothing, NOTHING is helping.  I even broke down and used cortisone and that didn't help.

I made an appt with a new Dr..  Going today.  Praying she can be patient enough to help resolve it for me.

I can't find the trigger!  I've changed nothing in my routine.  I'm leaning towards something I've ingested but after a whole week I would have thought it would be out of my system right now but I'm in the still swollen and slightly peeling stage..  Both upper & lower lids.  I look like a shar pei!

I'm so depressed.
I'll report back.

[tootired10]

Do any of my fellow sufferers use Tilex, bleach, aerosol bathroom cleaners or Windex regularly?  

[Allyrachel77]

Hi all,
Sorry to everyone who has to suffer through this.  I too have this same, horrifying problem.  I wish I knew what caused it but I think there are too many ingredients in things I thouch/eat/use to figure it out.  I bought Egyptian Magic and it has worked wonderfully for me!  I still wake up with slightly swollen lids sometimes but the flakey skin and redness and most of the swelling is gone.  The EM makes the swelling go down pretty quickly too.  My eyes mostly flare up from using makeup (mascara, eyeshadow, eyeliner) and then sometimes from dust or household cleaners etc.  I'm just wondering if anyone has found a brand of eyemakeup (particularly mascara) that works for them and doesn't cause the flare ups?  I was using maybeline for about 10 years but obviously can't use it anymore.  If anyone has any suggestions I would greatly appreciate it!  I want to wear makeup again!!!!  : (

[tootired10]

The good, the bad and the interesting.

Found a new Dr. and went today.  I was in my end stage of an episode.  Still swollen, not so red, barely any flaking but my lids were sore and looked like deflated latex balloons.

After listening to my long tale of woe she examined me, left the room and came back with another Dr. “We think you have something pretty uncommon. Blepharochalasis Syndrome”  

HUH?

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1214014-overview

So, while many of my symptoms suggest this but not all, I was referred to a PLASTIC SURGEON!

*blink blink* HUH?

I don’t know what to think.  I won’t lie.  I’m thrilled at the prospect of having my eyes surgically restored to their former youthfull appearance and possibly having my medical insurance cover it.  I’m confused as I’m not sure my issues will be relieved if I do.  The Dr. told me that the PS will be best to handle me as he deals in all kinds of glandular problems and he needs to confirm her diagnosis.

I will be calling 1st thing in the morning.  I’ll keep you all posted.

PS Allyrachel: I’m using Maybelline Great Lash waterproof with not problem. lol.  At least that I know of!  I’m so glad the E. Magic worked for you!!  I carry that stuff everywhere.  

[tootired10]

I'm just reading back on some earlier post.  Ladies!  Ditch the Bare Minerals and get some Everyday Minerals!!  BE is the DEVIL! It contains bismuth which many people can not tolerate.

[luisa2552]

I am so glad I stumbled across this board. I am a healthy 44 year old female. For the last 6 weeks or so, off and on, I think  have had what you guys have been posting about. I have and INTENSLY itchy red swelling under my eye and recently now above my eye. At first I thought I was scratching my eyes at night, because it would usually show up in the morning. Yesterday it happened in the middle of the day. I read the suggestions of NEEM and EM. I think I will take an antihisamine. It looks awful, but feels worse.
Do yo guys have both eyes affected? Mine has always been just my right eye. SO annoying!

[Rache1b]

I had the same condition you are all describing and it was making me pretty miserable. It was only affecting my right eye which was swollen, red, itchy and sore. After reading everyone's posts on here I bought some Neem, which really helped in reducing swelling and soothing the area, but my right eye was still very wrinkled so whatever was the cause was still there.

I went to see an alternative therapist who I have seen in the past for a few unrelated conditions. It only took one session with him to cure this problem. He immediately identified the allergens which had triggered it - mainly some new face powder I has started using a few weeks earlier and a few other products which weren't suiting my skin. He then did some healing work on the wrinkled skin around my eye resulting in it being back to normal and looking like my other eye in under a week.

This is the website of the guy who cured this for me. I appreciate he will be too far away or in the wrong country for most of you on here but if you contact him he may be able to reccommend someone local to you as I know he has contacts worldwide.

http://www.*****************.com/

I have just read this back before posting it and it looks like an advertisement for this guy - I promise you it isn't, I just want to tell you all how I cured this. I really feel for all of you who have lived with this horrible condition for months or years. I only had it for a few weeks and found it really upsetting.

[srenee615]

Ok, after my apple and juice fast I was in pretty good shape. About two weeks after, I had the problem again after eating Indian food. Not sure why. I will say I haven't had the swelling for several weeks. Why? The only thing I can think is I am drinking a lot of water everyday and exercising (sweating) I try to stay away from salty foods and not too much alcohol. I don't know what is causing this but I know for sure I wake up with my eyes nearly swollen shut when I drink  alcohol and don't drink enough (lots!) of water & when I have a lot of sodium. I think the exercise helps the lymph system clear out excess fluid and gets rid of salt.

I still have the red, itchy, dry skin on my eyelids. It is even extending out beyond the upper lids. I have been diagnosed with blepharitis and I believe I have this condition. (My eyes burn and water horribly). I don't know if the bleph. is to blame for all this or not.

I guess I just want to share what has helped with the swelling of the lids. Drink lots of water, exercise and reduce sodium and things that dehydrate like alcohol and caffeine. Hopefully we will all find what will heal us very soon!!!!

[eenie1]

This may have already been suggested but I thought I'd add it in just in case.  Has anyone here been tested for food allergies?  I started with this problem a few months back and was so uncomfortable that I sat down and figured out what was new in any part of my life.  Only thing...pecans.  I had bought them to put in muffins I was making for a friend.  I tried one and fell in love so was adding them to everything I ate.  I stopped them and was better in a matter of days.  I forgot myself and ate a few toasted pine nuts a few days later and within 15 minutes my eyelids were red, itchy and swelling again.  Another couple weeks passed without incident until I ate peanut butter this past Sunday.  I was at the bottom of a container of fresh ground peanut butter.  Within 15 minutes of eating, eye symptoms started again.  I now have an epi-pen and will be going for bloodwork to test for tree nut and peanut allergies this week.  Just another note to all.  If the trouble comes and goes you may want to start keeping a food diary.  

[ShaX2]

Same as the rest of you... my eyes looked like raw meat that someone had tenderized the heck out of... I tried everything you all had suggested... and the stuff that I was warned NOT to do...

Disasters:  boric acid, aleo vera gel, Vagisil, hemorrhoid cream, and my favorite... topical steroid (from my "knowledgeable" dematologist...$75.00 for the wasted visit... thanks alot)

all burned... inflammed... and resulted in a bigger mess...

What Semi Worked:  

Egyptian Magic (dermatologist looked at contents and said "mid-eastern vasoline")

Neem Cream (dermatologist looked at contents and said "glorified aloe vera")... yet they BOTH worked better than her steroid from hell...

If you are going to use this combination of stuff... your upper lid is going to like the Egyptian Magic... the lower is going to puff moderately (on a min, mod, max scale)... both my lids accepted the Neem cream... but the lower remained min-mod swollen and both lids remained RED...

Nizarol Shampoo (Walgreens)... put on straight and sparingly and for only several minutes... too much and it will seep into your eyes and burn like noone's business... decent short term result... totally cuts the swelling... but I kept piling on the other stuff... was afraid not to... so not sure how it would have worked by itself...  Im now using it as my new shampoo... because I know its safe on my lids and will not cause additional erruption...

Neem Oil... the ointment that must have been made from pre-historic dinosaur anal glands... STUNK to high Heaven... I stunk to high Heaven... couldnt stand myself... the dog edged to the other side of the bed and pointed his nose away from me... that putrid mess burned my eyes all night long with no better results than the Neem cream... which was MUCH better contained and only had a slight garlic odor...

Claritin for Allergies... take two a day... it didnt kill me... I weigh about 120 lbs... cut down the itching...

FINALLY... WHAT WORKED... well... at least for the last two hours... but I BELIEVE!!!  :)

Oil of Oregano... kills all types of body fungus... both internal and external... I do believe we have fungus boy and girls... RUN... dont walk to the health food store and go get you some... took one tiny gel cap... and before it got fully down my throat... I watched in amazement as my eyes shrunk to their normal size... two pills and the red was totally gone... no swelling... no itch... no gunky tear seepage... NORMAL EYELIDS!!!

Ill keep you posted on my progress... 2 hrs and holding...

Sha

[ShaX2]

Two days and all is well... the Oil of Oregano is doing great... I took 3 gel caps today as a precaution... and used the Nizarol for good measure... I want this stuff DEAD!!!  This morning... I had alot of dryness and bags from the ordeal... and still some residual redness... so... dont ask me why... but I put chapstick on my lids... I was afraid to try anything else... and at days end... they are nicely moisturized... the red has disappeared... and no more wrinkles.  I look myself again :)  I wish you all good luck... I appreciate all your help and suggestions.

Sha

[Audreyce]

Thanks for your detailed post...

What brand of oil of oregano to buy?

I too recently started using Bare Minerals...I suspect it might be the problem-

I'm stopping right now and going to wash my brushes too-

[doasis]

I am 33 and I too and among your ranks. My eyes are so puffy and red I can barely open then.  This has been a reoccuring issue for me for 10 years.  I just started wearing BE makeup again.  I wonder if this is the reason for my latest issue.  I am stopping right now and washing my brushes!  Tommorrow I am going to get the egyptian magic if my eyes do not clear up.  Can you use it on the bottom lid and/or acne?
thanx

[marie6681]

Is the Everyday Minerals and Egyptian Magic sold in stores or do you have to order online?

[srenee615]

Initially I tried putting aloe vera gel from a plant on my lids...made them itch. Then I put Vit. E oil..softened them but didn't take away the redness or itch. I put Benedryl cream on a couple times for the itching...took away the itch but made the redness brighter (last thing I need!)

I went in to Super Supplements (health food store) and looked at their skin care section. They had a poster advertising the before and after effects of an emu oil product. It was only $6 so I thought I would give it a try. It is called EMU gency First Aid pocket stick. It looks like a lip balm tube. It has emu oil, beeswax, vit E. oil , lots of other goodies and is all natural.

I started putting it on in the morning and at night before I went to bed. (I can't even remember the last time I wore eye makeup!) I am two weeks into the treatment and I'll be damned if the redness is not 95% GONE!!!! The itching is nearly gone. It took probably a week to see really good results. There is still a tiny bit of wrinkling on one lid but quite honestly, my eyelids look better than before this whole horrible fiasco began. In addition to relieving the redness and itching, it makes your eyelids look really soft. I am amazed and wanted to share this with you all. I looked at the EM and it looks great too, but to expensive for me. This stick was only $6 and is the only thing that has given me relief. Look in your local health food stores or online at laidinmt.com

I haven't had the swelling for well over a month. Like I said I am exercising more and drinking more water. I am also doing hot compresses to treat the blepharitis.

Thanks to ShaX2 for the oil of oregano heads up. I want to investigate this also.
Wishing you all healthy eyelids!!

[TapperMel]

I've tried hydrocortisone, topical benadryl, the poison ivy stuff that is pink, antihistimines, ice compresses, it *****. I'm a dancer and our group reenacted Thriller in several productions and I thought the heavy amounts of acrylic paint was the culprit.  Well I'm two weeks POST Thriller zombie and I've worsened. My eyes still look zombie-ish au natural.  ugh!!!!  As soon as my ankle gets better (had a sprain last night) I'm driving to the Health Food store and buying this Neem and EM stuff. I've spent the last hour reading all your posts. Let's keep in touch .. this has been extremely helpful.  I DON'T have insurance and really want to avoid going to a derm.

TapperMel

[dbond1111]

I would have to agree with most that are saying it is Bare Minerals. I have used this product off and on for a little over a year. When I first started using it, I had no problems. I go through stages of wearing makeup and then not. I recently started wearing it again and noticed that my cheeks were very itchy right after putting it on but just thought it was fall/winter skin setting in. Then I noticed that my eyelids were getting very sore, I just thought it was because I was scrubbing the makeup off. Well, when I saw and felt how my eyelids looked, starting two days ago, I freaked! I am so glad I found this site! I ran to the health food store and got neem oil right away. Too bad it stinks to high heaven! But it REALLY helped! Not only did I use it on my eyes, I used it on my whole face that has been dry, peeling and itchy. I think I will only use it nightly now because of the smell. I do want to get the EM yet. I also started taking the oil of oregano, I had taken that before because I felt I had too much yeast in my body,  and my chiropracter has been telling me she is really hooked on grapefruit seed extract. It basically does alot of the same things as the oil of oregano. She drinks it in her morning juice and puts it in her netty pot. So I am doing that too. I have had recent allergy testing and nothing came back although, my family all suffers from a mixed bag of allergies. Does anyone think this could also be yeast related? My husband niece get's a very similar condition on her face when she eats too much wheat, yeast, gluten, etc. What do you all think?

So glad to have found you!

[TapperMel]

I am about claw my eyeballs out today!  I used aloe vera gel last night. Nothing. I am itching more today and so swollen. I'm home due to a sprained ankle. Thank God because I look and feel so heinous! Today it's more the base of my eyelashes than the lids, both eyes. This is crazy...I hate this!  Help!

[TapperMel]

Is everyone using hot or cold compress??

[jazziebich]

I found a website which helped explain this issue very well.  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blepharitis/DS00633

I've followed the Medhelp site for approx 2 years and tried everyone's suggestions.  Nothing has really helped but I went back to an eye doctor's recommendation she made years ago, and I find it's really soothing and the swelling/redness has gone .  Hopefully on my way to being able to handle this terribly irritating condition. I use Refresh Endura eyedrops, Lidcare eye towelettes to wash my lids once a day, polysporin or cortrate on the lids, and vaseline morning and night.  I'm going to start with the warm compresses as well prior to using the eyelid towelettes.  This condition seems to need vigilant care to keep on top of and I read it's chronic, so it won't go away (probably).

[TapperMel]

where did you get the lidcare and eye drops? Were they OTC??  Thanks!

[jazziebich]

Over the counter at the pharmacy.  I'm in Canada but I'm sure they have the same product elsewhere, perhaps by a different name.  Hope it helps.

[kdmcats]

I can't believe this many people have this problem.. I, too have suffered from itchy, red, swollen, upper eyelids for a long time.  It takes about 3 days to get full blown, then the cracked flakiness appears.  My eyes look saggy.  This cycle goes on about once or twice a month. I've tried changing make-up.  I'm not using Maybelline anymore, staying away from the bismuth ingredient.  I don't think it is just make-up though.. I believe the make-up just aggravates the problem.  I'm going to try some of your suggestions.  Hope at least one of them works!!  Thanks

[jazziebich]

Oddly enough, I've used Maybelline mascara for many years and seem to react to it.  I wonder what a good anti-allergen product would be?

[finishline]

I found this forum months ago and finally decided to post my own experience with "itchy, swollen, inflamed, twitching eyelids".

I am a female 42 - run 6 miles 6x a week - eat very healthy (an occasional salt or sweet binge once a month -I'm sure the ladies understand :-)) no health issues - never had allergies etc.

This April  I first noticed the inner area  in between my eyes to the side of my eyelids became slightly swollen and then slightly scaly after a few days  - I would moisturize to reduce dryness but the swelling did not subside.

Shortly after a week my eyelids were twitching on and off throughout the day - mostly on (not the spasm that occurs on rare occasions from lack of sleep). But ridiculous fast twitching.

Then my eyes became very very itchy and occasionally my nose too. My ears would also pop at times - hearing would get muffled especially on damp humid days.

At night I sometimes had fevers and would often awake feeling slightly sweaty.

I went to my GP. Gave me a scrip for Clarinex and Patanol eye drops. Did not help.
Went back - gave me a scrip for Amoxicillin - Did nothing.

At this point my eyelid swelling was getting worse - the actually lid was swelling not just the upper area in between my eyes.

Obviously frustrated I sought out further help...

I went to an ENT Dr. - He did allergy tests - sinus scans - gave me a scrip for a cat scan to see if my ethmoid sinuses were blocked - gave me a scrip for methylprednisolone (oral steroids).

The next day I went to an Allergist - he looked in my ears and up my nasal passages and said I had massive amounts of fluid in my ears and that all the pressure was backing up into my eyes - he diagnosed me with  Eustachian tube dysfunction and allergic conjunctivitis - He gave me a scrip to Omnaris (nasal steroid spray) - Elestat eye drops and told me to take Claritan D. He also did allergy tests.

MY cat scan came back negative. My allergy tests came back with a very  very low allergy to weeds- pollen and corn. - almost undectable.

The oral steroid worked like magic. I had my eyes back! I felt like me again when I looked in the mirror.

Until one month later ...It all came back.

By this time it is the beginning of August.
Went back to the ENT - got another dose pack of Methylprednisolone - He tested my ears - He did not agree w/Allergist about the Dysfunctional Eustachian tubes - my hearing checked out okay. This time the oral steroids only worked for two weeks and my eyelid horror returned.

Early September I went to an Ophthalmologist - He gave me a scrip for a steroid ointment called FML. He said it was some kind of allergy - highly unlikely due to pollen and weeds as my Allergist suggested - he said I had to be a detective and find out if any products I am using are causing this. He described it as a form of eczema and dermatitis.

I started using the FML - it did work - for a month - then symptoms came back...

Now during this time period of getting conflicting diagnoses and getting nowhere  - treating the symptoms not the cause I did put 2 things in the back of my mind that occured to me.

One night I ate way too many Wheat Thins -woke up with grossly magnified swelling and puffiness. The other occasion I ate way too much Vanilla ice cream and could barely open my eyes the next morning.

I spoke to my one of the Allergist's about this - asking if I had a food allergy - and she said that my eyes could not be caused by a food allergy - that if I had a food allergy my lips would be swelling up. So I continued on with the eye drops and antihistamines and decongestants.

Then very recently the corner of my lip split and I googled that and it was described as:
*********
"Why do lip corners split ?

The splitting of lip corners is the symptom of a problem called angular cheilitis (also known as perleche). It is the Inflammation of the sides of the lips following a fungal or a bacterial infection.This problem is more common among people who have a deficiency in iron or in vitamin B2, B3, B6 and B12.  "
********

When I read the words Fungal infection I remembered googling all this time and reading a couple of blogs and articles about yeast overgrowth and finally decided to look into . At first I was skeptical because none of the Doctors I saw mentioned that. Some sites about yeast overgrowth seem like a sales pitch which turns me off. Yet I decided to research this and can tell you I believe that is what this is.

Yeast overgrowth.

For over a week I have cut out sugar, dairy and yeast (except plain yogurt with active cultures). I am eating plain yogurt sprinkled with cinnamon - salmon -tuna - chicken eggs lots of garlic and all kinds of vegetables. I am limiting fruit to one small glasss of fresh squeezed  orange juice and another fruit. I am also eating some brown rice. Brown rice is okay and does not contain yeast - besides as a runner I need some carbs.

I also started taking acidophilus, a multi vitamin and biotin.

I am feeling so much better! I have my eyes back again! I am able to wear my makeup. BTW I too wondered if my beloved BareMinerals was causing this - It did not. I had these flareups going without makeup. I will say that the Mieral Veil does make my face itchy but I read that is from an ingrediebt called Zea Mays which is Cornstarch. I did rest positive to a slight corn allergy .

I will report back as I continue on with my healing!

I hope this helps someone. :-)

[finishline]

I could not fit this in my last post - Please read this article I found on line:

************************************
The reason you have Eczema is most likely an adrenal gland and fat metabolism problem. All the cremes, drugs, and other so called modern day medicine cures are ridiculous and doctors need to go back to school or better yet, change where they went to school. The drug companies that fund these schools prey on the ignorance and end up making a lot of money on this problem. You can get rid eczema forever and it only takes a few months.

If you are not getting good sleep at night ( 1 - 2 REM sleep periods ), this will not allow your adrenal glands to recharge properly and cause them to not work properly.

You need to eliminate ALL hydrogenated oils and especially genetically modified oils like Canola & Soybean. These are all being genetically altered and wreak havoc with your bodies immune system and fat digestion. Don’t be like a lot of uninformed Americans that eat these “vegetable” oils that are creating huge digestive problems.

Your liver and gall bladder need to be taken care of because if they are not working properly, you will not digest your fats correctly and this will cause the problem. Drugs like the Prednisone will damage your liver and the Magnesium Stearate they put in the tablets will suppress your immune system. If you are eating a diet high in carbohydrates and low in fats, this is a big problem because the low fat diet will cause the bile in your gall bladder to become very viscous and not work properly, hence, not digest your fats properly. You need a diet that is balanced at 40% protein, 30% carbohydrates, and 30% fats to be healthy.

If you are a woman (you didn't say), and had an episiotomy when you gave child birth, this could play a big role in this problem because the scar from the episiotomy will reflex to your adrenal glands and reduce the energy to a point where they won't work properly and cause this problem.

To correct the Eczema problem, if it were me, I would do the following and expect results very quickly.

Stop all medications, but make sure any steroids you have taken or are taking is slowly eliminated if you are taking these. Once you have stopped them, you are going to have to deal with lots of other digestive issues they have messed up.

Buy some "pink sea-salt." This is salt that contains minerals and other ingredients that will help your problem. Take at least 1/2 teaspoon of this per day.

Any drugs you have taken, killed your intestinal flora and you have Candida Albicans (yeast problem) that you are now going to have to deal with. This has stopped your body from producing “B” vitamins naturally. If you are itching, getting styes, ringworm, etc. this is most likely a good reason for this. It's not enough to take B vitamin pills to fix this, it won't, especially if you get the “B” Vitamins in a tablet from from drug stores or health food stores. You need to eat lots of fermented foods, like keifer, sauerkraut, miso (a good brand is Yamabuki), yogurt, etc.

I stongly suggest you go to this web site: www.healthline.cc (not the .com healthline site, it is bogus) or call them at: (800) 370 - 3447 and order the "Max Stress B" product. I would take 1/4 teaspoon day one, and then increase it daily up to 2 teaspoons after one week. This is a very potent form of “B” Vitamin source that contains the "end chain" B's and is highly assimilated by the body. This will stop any itching you may have also within a couple days.

I would also purchase from the same company a product called Adrenal Complex. I would take 9 of these at breakfast each day. I know it sounds like a lot, but you need these herbs to go to work on your deficiencies.

If you follow this routine, you should be over the Ecxema problem within about 2 months and it should not return.

I would also change my diet to heavy omega 3 fatty acid foods such as WILD fish (not farm raised), Beef from grass fed cows (very high in omega 3 fatty acids), unlike the high omega 6 fatty acid garbage beef from grain fed cows sold in commercial grocery stores, flax seed products. Eliminate sugars, especially sodas (even diet sodas), white flour breads. This feeds the Candida and the phosphoric acid in the sodas is binding the calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, etc. preventing absorption.

I would also purchase from that company the Betaine HCL and HCL activator, as well as the digestive enzyme and take 2 to 3 Betaine HCL and 1 to 2 activators and take after each meal, and one digestive enzyme with each meal. I would also purchase the probiotic and take one in the morning and one at night. I would take it with keifer milk. You can take this even if you are lactose intolerant.

All this will change your life and you should not ever have to deal with that Eczema again. It really works. Then when you are cured, tell your doctor and educate him on how the body works. I hope he appreciates the advice, because you will not be going to him for medications and his services anymore for this problem.

good luck to you
Source(s):
CNT, B.A. biology & chemistry
advanced nutritional research

    * 1 year ago
******************

This makes so much sense to me as I do not get much sleep at night - I go to bed too late and I have an elderly cat wakes me up at night with her meowing (I still love her - now if a human being woke me up three time that would be a different story :-)) Then I get up earlly and work out - run six miles - I think I may have burned out my adrenal glands and compromised my immune system. Plus if you read up on yeast overgroth I have read that it can cause massive congestion in the eye are as well as the sinuses and ears.


I can tell you since I have eliminated the yeast sugar and dairy I am doing great. Also I read another correlation which leads me to a yeast overgrowth - My twitching eyelids are due to a Vitamin B deficiency which  the yeast is robbing from me.

Wishing everyone well on this forum. :-).

[ladyworthington]

hi guys,
i am so glad i've found you.
i've had the SAME THING on one eye lid for about 3 weeks now- and it has progressively gotten worse and worse. yesterday it felt so tight and on fire i wanted to scratch my eye until it fell out.
i have found one cream though that has MAssively reduced the swelling and the itch.
it's neal's yard, rose and almond night cream.
i tried E45 which i'm quite sure made it worse, bio oil which definitely made it MUCH worse.
all moisturisers have made my eye feel on fire...
at least the neal's yard has stopped the aggrivation, but my eye-lid, too is drooping and looks really aged.
when all the irritation has gone i might keep rubbing Vit E oil in.

i think the key is, only use seriously emoilient and natural stuff. def keep away from anything anti-aging.

i think mine was triggered by stress and a change in facewash- but i'll never know.
i've had it once before and it came up when i was particularly stressed and seemed to disappear on its own.
anyway- try the neals yard cream. it's working for me.

[Peaches2009]

I posted on the other thread about dry red swollen itchy eye and just saw this one.

I believe this is all bacteria/fungus related.

I posted about this on the other so I wont go into detail other than to say I cured this problem with my 17 yr old son with organic apple cider vinegar and coconut oil.  Both have properties that kill bacteria/fungus.  

My SON IS CURED.


Its been amazing.  Stinks but works.  Will continue use until basketball season is over since it seems the sweat started it.

good luck all.  try the vinegar

[Cabota]

Thanks so much for the neem and em--they work great. My swelling on right upper lid is much much better. I got them at at whole foods but natural store probably has them too.  The neem oil smells like peanut butter so mostly use it at night. My dermatologist said the swollen , dry , old looking eyelid was from a fungus similar to dandruff. She said it was sebhoreic dermatitis ( sp? )- and that it can't be cured but only controlled - bummer.  Her prescription did not help but she also said to try T-gel when in the shower-- it burns but helps some. I figured out I was allergic to soy which is in everything! Also may be sensitive to dyes, and not sure about nuts. Still figuring it out. Thanks for the help!

[caj70]

i have been dealing with this crap for the past 8 years!! been to all differant dr's,,,, but seems they dont know sh.. !!!!! yeah they over dose you with prescription drugs!!! red.itchy,swollen,dry eye's is just unbearable.....gonna try the neem and egyptian magic..hope to god it will do some good!!!! i can't take this anymore....i can relate to every-ones comments,,, even as i type this my eyes are driving me crazzzzzzzzy.............itching  errrrrrrrrr

[TapperMel]

I went to see my friend who owns a health shop (mostly vitamins/supplements/beauty products). I caved in and bought the Neem oil out of pure desperation because I feel so bad and just wanna pull my eyeballs out. I couldn't sleep because the Neem smelled so bad...seriously I nearly vomited. I ended up putting Vicks under my nose to drown out the smell. I am also starting a vitamin supplement - something I haven't done before and he put me on some extra Vitamin D. We as a society just don't get enough sunlight! I will let y'all know what happens. I am OVER IT -- just like you guys!

[kdmcats]

I bought neem seed oil yesterday and tried it for thre first time last night.  At first it felt OK, but within a couple of minutes  my eyelids starting burning.  I had to take it off....couldn't take it.  Was I supposed to dilute it or something?  I'll try the vinegar tonight.  thanks,

[Peaches2009]

As with anything, always try a new product, in this case the vinegar, on a small, small, area before using it on the entire area, to see if there is any reaction.

My son said the vinegar stung the first time pretty good but nothing after that.

It makes sense, the vinegar changes the ph level on the skin.

He is still having success, but we have not stopped using the vinegar.  After the first two application his eyelids got scaley, or peeled a litte, which we then used the coconut oil on, but now its all clear.  They looked slightly red after the basketball game (sweat always irritated it) but we have avoided a full outbreak since starting the vinegar.  Thank God!

[SPetteway]

I am so thankful for everyone who comes here to offer their comments/advice.  My problems started over 2 months ago with my eyes itching and watering.  I would wake up in the morning with my eyes practically glued shut.  I tried the hot compresses, which felt good for a little while, but then the itching and watering would return.  After about a week of trying to deal with this, I made an appointment with my eye doctor. He diagnosed me with Blepharitis and gave me a precription for AzaSite antibiotic and told me to clean my eyelids with OcuSoft eyelid scrub twice a day, continue the hot compresses and use the AzaSite before bed.  My eyes did improve a little, but after a month, they were still not back to normal.  And, the wrinkles everyone talks about Yikes !!, they make you look 20 years older.  They had not gone away.  I had a regular eye checkup appointment, so I consulted with him again about the Bleph.  He said maybe it was an allergy, and to stop the antibiotic.  He gave me a sample of Pataday drops, told me to use an over the counter cortizone cream and to also use Zyrtec.  The Pataday drops did nothing, maybe even made my eyes worse.  The Zyrtec, at least kept my eyes from watering so much and the cortizone cream seemed to work a little, but I worried about using it on my eyelids for very long.  I was also using Vaseline to keep my eyelids from itching so much.  The Vaseline works, but is heavy and makes you look like a freak, so I tried not to use it when going out, but then my eyes would run and itch. The drainage from this is very sticky, which is why they tell you to soak your eyes with the hot compresses.  When this sticky stuff dries on your eyelids, I believe that's what causes the eyelids to wrinkle.

I bought some Egyptian Magic at Whole Foods and I love it.  It replaced the Vaseline, was greasy, but less so and you can rub it in.  Then, I was talking to a friend, who had the same problem a couple of months before.  She had been diagnosed with allergies at an urgent care place, and given the Pataday drops which didn't work for her either.  She finally went to her eye doctor and he diagnosed her with Bleph and gave her a prescription for Tobradex ointment (antibiotic/steroid).  She said she had relief in the first 24 hours and was able to begin wearing makeup again in a week.  

I called my eye doctor back and told him the Pataday was not working and told him about my friend and could he prescribe me the Tobradex.  He called in a prescription for Tobramycin drops.  I was to use them 4 times a day for 10 days, which I have done.  I am on my 8th day and my eyes are back to normal.  My eye balls were slightly pink, so the antibiotic has fixed that.  I still use the hot compress in the morning and at night and I still clean my eyelids.  I have changed to Steri Lid and like it much better than the OcuSoft.  

My fear is that I'll finish the antibiotic and the problem will come back.   I will continue to clean my eyelids, just in case it is Blepharitis.  It's very frustrating to deal with something like this and very expensive if you don't have insurance.  We have a high deductable, so we pay for all our medications and office visits.  After reading all the posts, I don't think there is just one solution for this or even one diagnosis.  It seems like some of the posters really do have allergies and some have some form of contact dermatitis and some truely have Blepharitis.  I will let you know if I am "cured" when I finish the treatment.  Thanks to everyone for the suggestions.

[kdmcats]

Hey again, I still haven't been using the neem oil after that first night, but I've been rubbing ACV on my eyelids at night.  I then am using the EMU oil stick I ordered that someone had mentioned earlier.  My eyelids aren't completely clear, but somewhat better.  I know I don't have the blepharitis because the symptoms don't match up.  No crusty eyelashes, etc.....just itchy eyelids that become red, swollen, cracked and then peel.  But again, things are a little better.  It doesn't happen all the time anyway so I'm curious when and if this will come back.  Oh, and it usually affects my right eye much more!....I may try the egyptian magic soon also.  Sounds like it's good for a lot of things.  Good luck everyone else!

[jenn_07]

I read through all the comments last week, thanks for all the postings. The tips I followed were: using neem oil, taking oil of oregano daily, and NOT using aquaphor or vaseline since it just traps the dryness and does not let the skin breathe.

My eyes started about 3 months ago and it was definitely pink eye since my eye balls were so swollen and red. Then after that it just never healed well and I started getting all the symptoms that everyone is describing: watery eyes, crazy itchy, swollen lower and upper eye lids, wrinkles that make me look 100 yrs old, and the skin is really pink and dark on top of that. I also have a life-long history of allergies, eczema, and sensitive eyes. (I am female, 24 yrs old)

I finally went to urgent care 2 weeks ago and of course I was diagnosed with blepharitis. My eyes were so bad that it looked like I was stung by a bee on both eyes. I was given an oral steroid (Prednisone) for 5 days. After my first dose my eyes literally got 90% better. Then after the last dose I looked normal again and my eyes did not even itch.

BUT also the things I did during the 5 days was: washing my eyes 2-3+ times a day with Aveeno baby shampoo, then applying Eucerine cream on both eyelids to keep it moisturized after each wash and throughout the day. I found Eucerine to be the best thing to put on my eyes because the vaseline and greasy formulas like that did not moisturize and did not help. Aveeno lotion also helped but Eucerine did not sting and lasted longer. (I noticed a SIGNIFICANT, almost instant improvement when I stopped using vaseline/aquaphor and switched to Eucerine cream).

But after the Prednisone wore off my eyes got a little pink/dark under the eyes again and slightly itchy. So I purchased neem oil and oil of oregano gel capsules. The neem oil was so oddly scented that I only used it twice, so I am not sure if it helped, but I really do believe that it was the oil of oregano gel capsules. I think we all have been doing all we can on the outside but I never tried anything internally (besides continuing to take Zyrtex daily for allergies).

Someone mentioned a fungus. I really think that is what caused all this for me because since I have been taking the oil of oregano I am better. Currently, I look 100% better and feel better. I think it was a combo of the Prednisone to control the symptoms and swelling, cleaning my eyes, using Eucerine cream around my eyes, and the oil of oregano. I was such a wreck before, my eyes were horrific, felt terrible, and I looked like a scarey old wrinkled person. It is so weird we all have the same symptoms but doctors can't seem to nail down the cause or a proper treatment.

[heldinhishand]

I'm so thankful to have found this forum...I've never dealt with anything this frustrating!!  Eye doc said it wasn't blepharitis and  gave me the steroid cream and some antibiotic ointment, which helped at first and now it's recurring.  I'm going to look for the neem and Eqyptian Magic and try them.  Someone mentioned tea tree oil or cream...has anyone tried that?  I don't know how it would work around eyes, but I know it's a natural antifungal and antiseptic.  Thanks to everyone for giving their suggestions...I, too, had no idea this was something so many people deal with.  At least now I'm hopeful that some of the ideas I've found here will help.

[Catgirl4611]

I have EXACTLY the same thing - red, swollen, itchy, peeling eyelids.  It came on suddenly about 3 months ago, and I've been through the same process as everyone, trying to figure it out WTF it is!  What a circus that can be, and it was such a relief to me to find this site and see that I was not alone (misery loves company, eh?). The real breakthrough for me was when I found some medical articles pertaining to reactions to cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and dermatitis (google eyelid dematitis).  Seems that CAPB can cause specific eyelid dermatitis that's just like what I seem to have.  I always was wondering if I have sebborheic dermatitis like my doc says, then why isn't it everywhere or at least other places?  CAPB is in EVERYTHING, especially if you like the "natural" products.  CAPB is a "mild" foaming agent that is used to replace the -laureth sulfate family.  Check your shampoo, hand soaps, shaving lotion, eye makeup remover, etc.
So, after ditching all products with CAPB and quarantining my eyes (no touching them for ANY reason - use a q-tip if you need to scratch!  It can cause problems even if it's on your hands from something else and you touch your eyes), and using only one product for moisturizing (I ended up with Emu-gency stick - it's like a big chapstick, so I don't need fingers, and it feels really nice on my sad eyelids - just find something that doesn't sting or irritate the already compromised skin), and really really being careful in the shower not to let any shampoo (check ingredients!) or conditioner flow towards my face and wash my hands after that with a safe soap, things are MUCH MUCH better.  The redness is almost gone, the peeling has slowed way down, and almost no swelling when I woke up this morning.  WHAT A RELIEF.  
Don't know if this is the cure for everyone because one person's experience is hardly statiscally relevant, but maybe there's something to this CAPB stuff that needs to be checked out.

Good luck everyone!

[mastaflex2002]

I have been using the same shampoo and face wash for over 5 years both which contain cocamidopropyl betaine as a main ingredient.  I have been suffering from your same eyelid condition for over 6 months now but have never had any previous allergies or conditions related to this facewash or shampoo.  Is it possible to develop an allergy to cocamidopropyl betaine even though I have previously never had any issues with it?  Also what shampoo and facewash can you recommend for me?  Also what moisturizer is good with a spf that doesn't contain this ingredient.  Thank you.  

[Cabota]

I have discovered that I am allergic to Soy and my symptoms have been better since I have been off of all soy products. The neem smells like rotten peanut butter but I use it at
night and the EM is soothing and wonderful. I may try the emu stick too. Also going to start a no fungus diet with no sugar, etc. and get more D, C and B. I am also thinking of getting a sun lamp since it is better in the summer when in the sun.
I have lost 7 lbs since off soy since it is in most prepared foods like cookies, candy and granola bars.  Still not sure if there are other triggers but will start reading ingredients on shampoos etc.
At least for now it is somewhat under control and if I do have a flare up I use a tiny bit of cortisone cream ( which I know is not good to do) but that reduced swelling very quickly.
Good luck to all of you -- this is such a frustrating thing to deal with!

[scaly_itchy_eyelids]

I had the same condition for 4 years and tried everything everyone listed on this site.  My allergist, dermatologist, optomitrist, and opthamologist told me there was no way to diagnose it and recommended steroid drops and creams.  Finally, I was recommended to another dermatologist.  She suspected it was contact dermatitis and conducted a 90-patch allergy test over a period of 5 days on my back.  The result: an allergy to propylene glycol, a chemical which was in everything from my face cleaner (Cetaphil), body lotions, and makeup.  I stopped using anything with propylene glycol 9 months ago and have been free of the horrible, scaly, wrinkley, puffy, red eyes that plagued me for so long.  Don't give up!  If your doctor isn't helpful and is more interested in giving you a prescription than finding out the cause, find another one!

[Peaches2009]

My son skipped three days of using the vinegar and he didnt tell me he quit.  He thought since it was doing so good he could stop.  well the red itchy started coming back and I was all worried again.

He finally admitted he had stopped using the vinegar so he started again and it was all gone.  Again, it seems when he sweats its the worse. But praise God the vinegar is working.

I told him to continue using it until basketball season is over then we can try stopping.

[jenn_07]

Hi those of you who are using vinegar, are you ingesting it or using it topically?

thanks!
jen

[Lozzy238]

Hi All,

PLEASE do yourself a favour and go buy some Dr Hauscka Eye Contour Balm.  I'm a 26y.o female that started getting red, puffy, scaly eyelids about 8 weeks ago and tried heaps of different things (moisturiser, pawpaw salve, warm compresses, tea tree oil, hydrocortisone [which worked until I stopped using it] but nothing would work permanently or stop it from getting worse. Then  I read on here about Dr Hauschka's Eye Contour Balm. I got some on Saturday and it's Thursday now and it has COMPLETELY cleared up my eyelids - I seriously cannot believe it, even the wrinkles under my eyes and the extra folds of skin on my eyelids that were caused from whatever it was I had are gone.

I'm pretty sure my symptoms were caused by my make-up which I stopped using at the same time the symtoms started but they still wouldn't go away. As people have mentioned previously, the Dr H balm has neem oil in which has antifungal and antibacterial properties but when mixed with the other ingredients in the Dr H balm it's not as harsh on your skin (and delicate eyelids). ALSO, try to get at least 20 minutes of sun a day; I've been doing that too and I'm sure it's helped as well as before that I wasn't even getting 20 minutes of sun a week!

The Dr H Balm is pretty exxy at 25 pounds or around $40-50 US and Australian dollars but it is SO worth it if it does the trick, especially if you think your symptoms stem from bacteria.

And also, stay away from hydrocortisone if you can help it, it will do permanent damage to your skin if you use it for long periods of time.

Hope this helps!

[srenee615]

I am curious...does anyone else have itchy red patches anywhere esle? I have developed a couple on my chin and now a few on my neck. Also of course on my eyelids, but also extending out beyond the lids. (yesterday my brother told me I look like I am wearing red eyeshadow!) My problem is especially bad right now and it is very cold where I live. Anyone else notice this weather correlation? I am wondeing if this is the oh so generic skin condition eczema. I am finally breaking down and going to the doc. I'll keep you posted.

[Peaches2009]

My husband does injest the vinegar for blood pressure but no, my son is not injesting it he is putting it on topically.

But it is Organic Applecider Vinegar with the Mother

[SPetteway]

It's been a week since I quit using the Tobramyacin (antibiotic steroid) and my itchy eyes are back.  The eye doctor wants to see me again, but I feel like, what's the use !  My neighbor gave me a little of her tea tree oil and I have been using that for two days.  The good news is that it's not as bad as it was before the antibiotic and the tea tree oil seems to be helping some.  I put it on with a Qtip right above my lashes, top and bottom.  Tomorrow I will go to Whole Foods and get my own bottle.  At least my eyes are not watering this time (knocking on wood).  I am still soaking my eyes twice a day and cleaning them with Steri Lid.  I also use the EM on my lids at night.  If I can't get this under control myself, I guess my next step will be a dermatologist.  Am thinking about picking up some Organic Apple Cider Vinegar too.  I Googled it and it sounds like it could help a variety of things.

[Peaches2009]

Oh boy is vinegar good.  I am never without it.  Check out earthclinic.com they have a huge section on the benefits of ACV.  (they don't sell any product, hope I am allowed to put that on here)

[nikim00n]

I believe it was last year for me when I woke up for the fist time with itchy, swollen, red eyelids. I thought it might be some of my eye makeup so I stoped using it even though I do promotions and wasn't to happy about going to work with no makeup on. It didn't help at all.  Finally it had stopped and I had no idea what made it stop but it just started coming back again and I think I figured it out!!! It seems as though the cold weather in the winter time is activating it!!! Try to think back at when yours started and let me know if it's the same!!!
                                 Thanks,
                                         Nicole M.

[Catgirl4611]

I wish someone could explain WHY products you've been using for years all of a sudden cause problems.  That's what happened to me too.  I think something, or a combination of somethings must trigger the skin to react, and once it does, it's difficult to stop.
  I found in combination with elimating products with cocamidopropyl betaine (you asked about facewash - check out Aubrey Organics line - they don't have any foaming agents at all and they make great chemical-free shampoo too) I got a lot better.  I am finding a few other things like tea tree oil and urea also cause irritation so I am pretty much in favor of using only minimal products so I don't keep having to wonder which ingredient did it.  I suppose I should go see a dermatologist and have the allergy patch tests done.  I did end up using low-dose hydrocortisone cream for a couple days to break the inflammation cycle and the redness and swelling didn't come back like it did the first time I tried it.  I think you just have to be a good detective and pay attention to what works and doesn't work for you... and don't give up, because there is a reason!

[SPetteway]

Thank's, I went to Whole Foods yesterday and found the apple cider vinegar (with mother) and also picked up my own tea tree oil.  I have not used the vinegar on my eyelids because it's my lash line that is slightly swollen and itchy.  I have started taking about a tablespoon of the vinegar with some V8 juice daily, after reading about the benefits.  So far the tea tree oil seems to be working, although it is very drying.  I bought Jason's and it seems to be much stronger than the oil my neighbor gave me.  At least my eyes are not tearing like before.

nikim00n, mine started about 2 1/2 months ago, so I don't think it's the weather.  In fact, the cool air seems to soothe it a little.  I live in NC, so it doesn't get really cold here.

[tkhelper]

I went to the health food store and bought neem lotion and neem leaves in capsule form. I take 2 capsules twice a day and apply the lotion to my eyelids. It has helped alot but do the wrinkles ever go away after the eyelids have been swollen? From what I understand it is from a fungal infection and neem has anti fungal properties. Also put on vaseline after you put on neem this will help drown out the fungal infection before you go to sleep.

[crosby_fan]

I have read quite a few of the posts on here and it sounds like this is the same thing I am suffering with...PLEASE SOMEONE HELP!...I'm only 22 years old and I of course want nice skin...my eyelids are so red on both the top and the bottom..so red it looks like I am wearing red eyeshadow and underneath is so red that I look very tired..they are very very dry and sometimes a little cracked..so sometimes putting stuff on my eyes (like lotions or whatever) pinches..some mornings (like this one) my eyelids feel tight and they are really puffy...I don't know what else to do..I have changed pretty much all of my make up that I can think of (eyeliner and mascara both hypo allergenic)..I'm using Avene eye cream to moisturize but it doesn't seem to be working..tried Avene Diroseal for redness cuz it sounded like it might work...but nothing...I've tried so many different creams and lotions...it looks like I have dark circles under my eyes so I have even used anti dark circle creams thinking maybe that's it but no results...I have talked to the doctor but all they suggested was using baby shampoo and a soft toothbrush to wash around my eyes..but then a cosmetologist told me not to do that...I'm tired of spending all this money and getting no results..i want to get rid of this discomfort and everything as soon as possible..it doesn't look good...I try to cover it up with make up (which maybe isn't helping it but it just looks so bad I have to) but most days that doesn't work or makes it look worse because the concealer stick and foundation makes the dryness show up and then half the time it looks like I'm tired AND old...please help...I'm desperate!!

[dbond1111]

Read previous post about Neem oil and EM. Are you a carboholic and sugar craver? You sound a lot like my niece that cannot eat a lot of yeast. I used neem oil and it really helped. I have not worn make up as of yet. I use a genlte lotion face wash and scrub very little. I have seasonal allergies and tended to rub my eyes alot, not much anymore. But at that same time, I developed a rash under my ring. I
wear latex glove most of the day at work so I have switched to latex free. I think that could have been part of the problem. I know that Bare Essecentuals made my face itch so I stopped using that. Good luck!

[tenarrow]

Thanks for this site! I have had this problem..started as redness and super swelling ( eyes were slits) then when it subsided my eyes were like deflated balloons and not 20 but went from looking like a "young" 50 to 80!..thakfully it slowly improved but the corners of my eyes still kept the sagginess and folds on the upper. Alsos, not mentioned too much here, after several big breakouts and the itcyness and scale started I developed rather permanent discolration, a deep re/browm circle on upper lids deemd to want to stay. This has only been goin on for abot 4 months but the damage is terrible. I tried the aller4gy meds internal and topical, vit E ( WHICH SEEMED TO BE THE MOST aggrevvating of all, in fact after that the real problems began, up till then I was making progress..boy, this just made it go crazy..maybe smothering it so it could not breath? anyway the only thing to calm it down was prednisone. After it calmed down and most of the swelliung and wrinlkles eased away I was SO HAPPY! after a week of prednisone I quit ( I truly hate the stuff but it was out of control and I was despereate) I tmaybe things would keep  improving but alas, another episode slowly crept up and within 4 days I was in trouble again so immediately started the prednison ( I know I know no one needs to tell me the downside it is just the upside seems the best of 2 evils) so it never became super swollen and horrible but still itchy, wrinkly in the inside corners and the discoloration is pronounced. I have run thru the internal and extenal irritants and haven't come up with anything. I have never had an allergy or skin problem before, never even had acne. I thought I could kick this but now I am on my knees so plan to try the NEEM and Em just a little scared due to the horrific side effects I had with Vit E ( which seemed like such a good idea and I have LOVED Vit E for so many things thru the years it has been a miracle for everything else)  I am afraid I might "smother" the eyes and get another horrific reaction like I did and I hope to never let it get that bad again If I can at all avoid it. The damage is so deep I am not sure I will ever fully recover but I have made progess I hope I can maintain. But I am not going to be doomed to prednisone so after this flare up I MUST find something I can live with. This site has made me feel "understood" as my spouse and family think it will all "go away" and "isn't that bad" ( mostly trying to make me feel better, they know it is "that bad") but call it vanity or whatever, I will not go in public easily with this when it is red scaly and itching like crazy ( my flare ups itch night and day), at least not without sunglasses if I can at all help it.Your site has given me hope and comfort, the best is I feel we know what we are dealing with even if the solutiuons seem so evasive and varied. Thanks again  

[srenee615]

Since I now have this red, itchy nightmare on my eyelids, chin and neck...(It was only on lids for long time...) I have seen 2 docs in the last week. First one thinks its seb. derm and fungal. I tried the apple cider vinegar which helped with the itch but made the rashes redder and seeminly more irritated. I tried ketakonazole anti fungal prescription cream...nothing.(Apparently not fungal)  I also bought the Oil of Oregano pills...nothing. Second doc said she thinks its exzema (eczema)..an allergy to something. The only thing I have changed is a new shampoo for seb. derm. I will stop using this and see what happens. This is so bizarre...I have never had rashes in my life. I broke down today and put OTC hydrocort. cream on (I swore I never would!!) We'll see what happens. I am trying to get in to a dermatologist. I am sorry for all who are suffering with this....be glad you only have it on your eyelids!

[SPetteway]

It's been over a week since I checked in and let everyone know of my progress.  I am still putting a warm/hot compress on my eyes twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed.  I then scrub my eyelids and lashes with SteriLid.  I like it so much, I ordered two more bottles from Amazon where it was cheaper.  I then dip a Qtip in diluted tea tree oil (I dilute it in water) and put it along my lash line, being careful not to get it in my eyes.  After this dries for a while, I put EM on my lids and massage it in.  I finally feel like I have this under control.  I have read enough about Blepharitis, that I think it's what I have. After almost 2 weeks of this routine, my wrinkles have gone away.  I am still not wearing any eye shadow or mascara and I may never wear it again.  I'm just glad that I'm able to get through my days without the itching and watering and hoping that I don't have to go to any more doctors.  I'm also relieved that it's not an allergy.

I feel bad for young people with this problem, especially those who have the swollen eyelids, which I think is something other than Blepharitis.  Hang in there and try different things until you hit on one that works.  

[tootired10]

Hi!  Just checking in with you all.  I've been virtually symptom free for a while now.  I had one relapse and I attributed it to Cle de Peau concealer.  Bah.  Love the stuff but it's not going anywhere near my eyes again.

Still using EM BUT I threw caution to the wind and tried a sample of Nia 24 eye cream (loaded with niacin B3) I got and I can't rave enough about it.  I was petrified dabbing it on. No reaction and it seems to be restoring the "deflated balloon" appearance I got from this mess. Been using it for a week without problems.  $$$ though.  I just order it from ebay for less.  It's only sold at derms.  Honestly, my eyes haven't looked this good in a very long time.  I always tap a bit of EM over it.

I would not recommend trying it if you're in a full blown episode but if you have it somewhat under control, try it.  Get a sample first.

[FEDUP508]

i am at my absolute wits end.
then i stumbled onto this page, and now i see that i am not alone.
the itching started in my left eye about 6 months ago/ Little by little it gets worse. and spread to the rt eye.
the swelling, the redness, the horrible itching until i just about bleed. then last but not least the scaly, skin peeling.
Been to the doctor 2 times and he really doesn't know what it is.
recently i noticed the lids are looking wrinkly, and this bums me out.
Thanks for the idea for the neem oil.  I went & got some today, and i am giving it a try this very moment.
I am hopeful.

[Kunkeez]

l have a similar problem with the red site itchy eyes buy I also have the inner eyelid skin coming off. As I rub my eyes the akin rolls into long lengths inside my eyelid giving me the feeling of having a foriegn body in my eye. My eyes puff out very badly and the only thing I can do to relieve it is to close my eyes and sleep for a bit. However when I wake up I either itch them again or they are very sore. Has anybody else experienced this?  

[Kunkeez]

I don't have any pets, wear contacts or even makeup. However the skin on my eyelids are fine: no flakey dry skin.

And of course as I feel like there's something in my eyelid: I scratch and itch even more. It seems to be happening more often recently but I can't think of anything that could cause it.

Please help me!!!!!! :0(

[sono3DQueen]

I also suffer with swollen and very itchy upper eyelids.  I went to the doctor who thought I just had an allergic reaction to some cleanser and gave me a round of steroid pills.  I took them exactly as instructed but the day after I finished the pills the itchy, swollen eyelids came back.  The doctor suggested that I take Benadryl and Zyrtec which I did for 3 days but I didn't see any difference.  I was instructed to call the doctor's office after the holidays and they will try to refer me to a dermatologist which they said could take a couple of weeks!  I need help now so I am glad that I found this message board!  I read all the comments and since it was late on a Sunday night I wanted to try a "home remedy" first and I hoped that it would give me some relief until I could go to the store to buy Egyptian Magic.  First of all I tried the vinegar remedy but it really stung and it made my eyelids more swollen in the morning - I used straight apple cidar vinegar but I now think that I probably should have diluted it, not sure by how much.  I searched on-line for a location that sold the Egyptian Magic (I assumed that the local Super Supplements store would have it but it did not) and I had to drive to Whole Foods Store the next day to find it -  it was $36.  I also went to a drug store and bought some SteriLid and it was $20.  My regimen was to first apply a warm compress on my eyelids for 5 minutes, then I use the SteriLid - which I think is a great product and I think this has helped me the most with the swelling and the @!#$# itching.  You need to apply the Sterilid on your eyelids, eyelashes, and around the eye and let it sit for at least 60 seconds and it feels very nice and it doesn't sting.  After the SteriLid I applied a small amount of the Egyptian Magic carefully on my lids.  It does feel oily when you apply it but it did help with the scales.  I did this regimen in the morning, at mid day and in the evening.  I saw a big difference by the next morning!  The itching is very minimal after day two and the swelling is gone, still some minor scaling but not like it was.  Even the eye wrinkles that were in the upper/inner eyelid are minimal - not entirely gone but at least I think I can go out in public again.  I am not taking any over the counter products either, I stopped with the Benadryl and Zyrtec.  I also stopped with any eye makeup for the last couple of days, threw out my mascara and I will start with a new mascara tomorrow.  It is interesting to note that this whole thing started on my right eyelid first and it did not spread to my left eyelid for a couple of days.  This also started when we got a hard freeze here in the Northwest - which lasted for a week and that is when it flared up.  I had a milder case of this last winter but I was able to "manage" it with hydrogen peroxide.  I thought this was related to cold weather where some on the message board thought it was related to warmer weather.  I am also being treated for hypothyroidism so I take Levothyroixine .100MG everyday  and I have been treated for 10 years.  I will also add that I do wear fake finger nails that are called "Pink and White" which are different from acrylics.  I had them filled in on Saturday and they usually don't add nail polish on them but I asked for some red nail polish christmas decorations on them and the next day both of my eyes were full blown itching (after finishing the steroids 3 days before).  I do recommend the regimen that I described above.  In addition, I use fresh towels every day and I change my pillow case every day.  One last thing, I do believe that it helps to wash your hair with Baby Shampoo.  That's it for me.  I am not 100% back to normal but I am much more comfortable now.   Thanks to everyone who contributed to this site, I am most appreciative.  

[SPetteway]

I love the SteriLid and paid $20 for it at Walgreens the first time I bought it.  I recently ordered two bottles from Amazon at less than $15 a bottle.  Your routine sounds a lot like mine, but I apply the warm compress for 10 min. each morning and also before I go to bed.  I think I read somewhere that the warm compress helps to drain the eyelash folicles.  I've had a minor flare up the past couple of days, but nothing I can't manage.

[chris0418]

I really appreciated all the comments on this list. When it happened to me a few months ago, one eyelid was so swollen that the eye was practically shut. Fortunately I'd made an appointment at the doctor the day before. I brought up the different things I'd read about. He said with blepheritis (or however you spell that), he'd expect to see little bumps along the lash line, and didn't. I do, however, get those behind my ears. He said to wash them with Head and Shoulders, which I have been and it seems to be helping.

The eyelids though were red, sore, wrinkled, scaly, peeling, and puffy--especially the one. He diagnosed contact dermatitis and recommended the hydrocortisone cream others have mentioned. I told him I don't use makeup, have used the same soaps and moisturizers for a long time, and have had the cat for 14 years. I've never had this happen before and hadn't changed anything. He said your body changes and can start reacting to things it never did before.

So I got the cream at the drug store. The pharmacist recommended the 1/2% because I was using it near my eyes. It took the swelling down in a day or so. But it didn't stay away. In a few days, I could feel the rough skin and the wrinkles got worse again.

So I got some Egyptian Magic. Cost $31.00, but I figured it was worth it if it worked. Bought glycerin soap and asked the clerk at the health food store for a moisturizer with the purest ingredients they had. Another $32.00. With all this, I was better, but still not great.

So I washed the cat. This is a grumpy, old, fat, 15.5 lb. tomcat with all his teeth and claws. He does not like baths. It takes 2 people to do it. But he does go outside. And I figured he might have picked up something. I have a neighbor who got a terrible poison oak rash from hers.

The bath worked. I don't know what he got into. And I'm careful to wash my hands after I hold or pet him now. But I've been able to go back to all my old creams and soaps without any problems.

[sufergirl177]

Hi,

I thank my lucky stars to have found this site. I am 54 yo, pretty much haven't worn make up my whole life, suffered from seasonal allergies (hay fever) with swollen eye lids in my 20's but not many problems with allergies now. I don't have animals. Out of nowhere, on Christmas eve, I came home from a party, looked at myself in the mirror and it looked like I had just gone snow skiing all day without googles and I had forgotten to put sunscreen on my eyelids!!! I had bright red eye lids and a red spot on one side of my neck. The red went from my upper eye lashes up to my eye brows.

I'm not sure what people are referring to when they say "upper eye lid" and "lower eye lid". I guess that the lower eye lid is that smaller amount of skin underneath the lower eye lashes.

Anyway, I got a Homepathic first aid gel called Sovereign Silver at the Vitamin Store. It helped a little bit but then the swelling came back and my eyes were almost  swollen shut when I woke up one morning. The only thing that helped them was putting on some cold compresses. It is sooooo creepy to have all this loose wrinkly skin on my eye lids. So much for people telling me I look like I'm 40!  : (

I am going to run out and get the Neem oil and lotion and the EM balm.  THANK YOU SO MUCH for all your helpful information and experiences and advice. The doctors are no help.

FYI, I did get my hair colored, highlighted 2 times in Dec. The first time was before this eye incident started. I can't remember if, after I got the 2nd highlighting, the eye situation got worse. Also, I did have an intestinal bug before this eye problem started and I started eating an egg every morning to have a bland breakfast that wouldn't irritate my stomach. Usually, I have oatmeal or cereal every morning for breakfast. I'm going to watch to see if I might have an egg allergy or if the hair coloring has something to do with it.

Best wishes to all and happy healing.

Sincerely,
a fellow sufferer of "Bizarro Eyes"  : )

[tootired10]

Happy New Year!!
I'm hoping everyones eyes are a bit better.
I just wanted to let you know that I have found a good alternative to Neem and Egyptian Magic.  EMU OIL.  It is sold in health stores (GNC, Whole Foods......)  but you must be sure to get a good one.  Organic.  If you buy it and it gives off more than a very faint smell, it's not good.  Return it.  Some people can not tolerate it so do a patch test 1st, preferably on or close to your face.  

Also, I can stress enough how important it is to keep your EYES moist using drops such as SYSTANE.  It will keep tearing and irritation in check with can acerbate your lid condition.
Good luck all!

[dovejen7]

My son is almost 14 and has had this problem for 2 years.  It started as a small dry patch on one eyelid and has turned into what looks like a dry, flaky, swollen mask around both eyes.  I found this forum a couple of days ago and immediately went out and bought some NEEM oil.  Besides the horrific smell, his eyes are looking better everyday.  He has been to his GP, an eye specialist and a dermatoligist and none of them knew what it was.  He has been treated for pink eye, infections, given steriods, cream, eye drops, pills, etc.  None has come close to working.  I find it amazing that doctors do not know what this is or where it comes from.  I still do not know if it is an allergy or a fungus.  He thinks it came from his sister (she's two) since he's had it for two years.  I'm just hoping the NEEM oil continues to heal.  We are also using a vitamin E oil to help heal the skin.  Good luck to everyone with their eye issues.

[anna269]

I have had swollen itchy hivey eyelids almost daily, for the past nine years. Tried many many creams, diet changes, doctors.
Finally, I have found a topical, non-steroidal, medicine that has completely cleared me up. I first tried a smaple from my dermatologist. It only took a few days to clear me up completely. Its been over a month now--and i have not had a single flare up. It's called Epiceram. Good luck everybody.

[SummerLoverNan]

You need to go to your ophthalmologist to be diagnosed with blepharitis.  He will recommend  that you start a practice of keeping your eyelids clean - clean with a solution of 50% baby shampoo and 50% water every night followed by a very thin film of petroleum jelly on the eyelids; take Flax oil seed or fish oil-- I take 1.3K grams 2x in the a.m. and 2x in the p.m..The ophthalmologist prescribed antibiotics for three months.  It did not clear it right away  but shortly after it did. The only color of eye shadow or liner you should wear (if any) is brown as it does not have any red dye in it.   I continued the routine of the baby shampoo and petroleum jelly and I have not had an incident since April 2009.  I tried the neem oil and other home remedies listed here -- they don't really work to completely clear your eyes up -- go to a good doctor -- a GOOD ophthalmologist!  I've spent lots of money on remedies that just don't work. I'm doing great and I'm glad I went to an ophthalmologist--  the best and most effective money I've spent!

[Cugsy]

Canestan no good at all.  I tried Oil of Manuka which had little effect.  So I went back to see a different doctor and he immediately prescribed serbaceous dermatitis and gave me a prescription for some antibiotics (flucloxacillin) and hydrocortisone cream.  Just got back, bathed  my eyes and applied the cream, then took the antibiotic.  Already my eyes feel more comfortable.  He said it should only take a couple of days and all the soreness, scaliness and wrinkles (within reason) should go!  I need to check my shampoo/conditioner and some new hair spray I was using prior to the onset of my problems, and not use them again.  Hopefully this will be the answer to my problems - and it could be yours too!!

[scorpiogirl_40]

You may have Preseptal cellulitis. It is caused by contiguous spread of infection from local facial or eyelid trauma, insect or animal bites, conjunctivitis, chalazion, or sinusitis. Symptoms and signs of preseptal cellulitis include tenderness, swelling, warmth, and redness or discoloration. A course of antibiotics is the most common treatment for individual with this eye infection. Even if the eye infection does vanish the antibiotics must be completed such as clindamycin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, or doxycycline for oral treatment. A steroid shot such as Cortizone will not work (at least it did not for me) Today is my 1st day of treatment on the antibotic (antibiotic) so I will keep you posted. By the way my was caused by untreated sinus problem. The doctor told me to buy Mucinex-D Maximum strength in the red box. The one you have to ask for at the pharmacy counter.

[GGRL]

    Just wanted to say THANK YOU all SO much for posting your symptoms, cures, findings, etc. I began having this problem about 5 months ago, where it would only occur every other weekend (odd; I know). In the past month it has increased...and for the past two weeks my eyes have been ridiculously red, itchy, wrinkled, and they BURN! Not to mention the horrible dark circles under my eyes. I'm only 20, its so depressing! I had finally come to the conclusion that I was experiencing Blepharitis and was planning on going to see an eye doctor....But I'm going to save myself the trip thanks to you all.
     I've tried compresses, not wearing makeup, changing my sheets... and obviously none of that helped. Its so embarassing because I work in a Pharmacy and we couldn't figure out what was going on with me! I walk into work everyday and look like I've been doing hard drugs all night!
   Can't wait to try the NEEM oil...it sounds like it really helps, and I think I am going to reevaluate my face wash and shampoo because the Benzoyl Peroxide idea might have some bearing.
     Anyway, again, THANK YOU SO MUCH!

[hillcountrygal]

What have you learned or experienced since your last post?  I have similar symptoms with the redness and swelling involving the area around my lips.  Doctor diagnosed Cedar Fever and prescribed prednison, Allegra, famvir(for the fever blisters suffered earlier), and Musinex.  Once I stopped the prednisone and famvir, symptoms returned.  UGH!  It's the weekend so will call the dr. again on Monday.

[DMarie88]

Briefly, dermatomyositis will often appear in areas other than eyelids. Heliotrope dermamyositis more specific.

Have also endured years of (upper) eyelid erethyma. Excellent internist diagnosed blepheritis, but not likely, all these years later. Dermatologist did prescribe strongest possible hydrocortisone cream, which provides some relief, but short-term. Also, risky.

Worse in winter: pruritis leads to inflammation, becomes thickened, then very red...until derma seems very thin. In the first stage, baby shampoo applied on moist cotton pad, as prescribed by phys., and can be found in Merck's, does help, but it is minimal.

[srenee615]

I went to the dermatologist with my eyelids, face and neck very red and rashy. First she said it was an allergy to something. I said the only thing I had changed was a new shampoo system for sebboreah derm on the scalp (I also have this...it's quite a treat!) So she said probably a reaction to the shampoo. THEN, she changed her mind and said since I have seb derm on my scalp, it has now spread to my face and neck. I've done a lot of thinking and when I have an allergy to something, it does not present in this way. I think it may be the seb derm on the face.

She prescribed steroid cream. I told her I didn't want to use it and she said my case was so severe nothing else would touch it. She said use it for 7 days then stop. I did and it cleared the rash. Day three after stopping I woke up with it severe swelling and rash covering more area than original. GREAT!! I have made a connection between soy sauce and the swelling and rash. If I have too much, gauranteed to wake up this way.

I've been doing tons of research, as we all have. I have decided to try organic extra virgin coconut oil. I put it on the rashes for a day, smells great and didn't seem to irritate. The next day the skin was peeling (as it had with the steroid cream) and the redness was a little better. The last four days I have not done any treatment because I have another doc appointment with the actual dermatologist tommorow and I want him to see it with no medicine on it. I just want a diagnosis. I am not interested in steroids, internal or external. I may use a little OTC but I want to give the coconut oil a good try. Many have said they have had success with it.

I have also had the itching around my mouth. I had angular chelitis last winter (total drag!) this affects the corners of your mouth. I put a little neosporin and vaseline at night and it went away. I have not heard of Cedar Fever. You should do all the research you can on it and maybe get a second opinion. I'll keep you posted and let you know what the derm says tommorrow. Good luck to you and hopefully we'll all get our conditions figured out and healed.

[DMarie88]

After skimming posts earlier, for the first time, did try dampening a cotton pad w/clear vinegar and am very surprised at the dramatic improvement, because it was quite sudden. The redness abated almost immediately, although area is a bit cracked and dry as a result.

The complaints we share do seem to allude any definitive dx, that's for sure.

[srenee615]

Thank you for the name of the disorder, I've never heard of it. I will definentley do some research. It will be interesting to see what diagnosis the derm comes up with!
Thanks again!

[DaliGal]

I am glad I found this board and shocked that so many others have dealt with the same freaky eyelid thing! Also, reading through everyone else's accounts of what did and didn't work helped me immensely.
This eye(eyeLID, though--no infection at all IN my eye, so not blepheraris or a stye or Pink-Eye) thing--first itchy, dry and red on the outside and top of one eyelid, then spreading to the other,
started just before Christmas.
Not so bad then and I didn't worry about it much, and I kept slathering on my eye cream and wearing make-up(not that it looked so good over the scaley skin, but I felt it helped to hide my now red ringed eyelids). I thought it was just winter dry skin(even though I have oilier skin and never had any dry skin issues).
.
By New Year's it was worse--stinging in the shower, and stinging whenever I put my previously gentle eye cream on it. Then, by last Tuesday, it had gotten even worse with incredible itching and my eyes getting puffier(lower and upper lids). Two or three times a day, I applied an over-the-counter hydrocortizone cream and that helped the itching...somewhat. But it did nothing for the increasing dryness--crepey, wrinkled and dry texture, as others have described it. I am 47 years old and look about 10 years younger normally, so to all of a sudden look like an ancient 100 year old person was a shock and almost made me want to cry. Yes, I am a bit vain, but I think this would be the case for most of us. (I also work directly with the public, so this was not good for my confidence and professional demeanor)

By Saturday(just this past weekend), I was all puffed up and the worst it had been--appearance-wise. The itching had subsided, however. And I had stopped using the hydrocortizone cream days before. I was nervous about using too much around the eyes and somehow knew this was not the answer.
Then I remembered that this same thing had happened to me 30 years before--just before entering my senior year in high school. I had a hard, emotional time of it looking like that at a new school, I remember and I think it lasted about 2 months. I went to an allergist back then but don't recall what the doctor concluded--only that I was allergic to "mold spores"--no treatment and surely he had no idea what it was. I just remember at the time slathering on moisteriser(cheap body lotion, actually--what did I know) and it eventually clearing up--my eyes returning to normal and never any allergies to anything ever after.  

So...here was this eye "thing" once more. I hated not knowing how it happened and why I got it. I felt like going to the doctor's would be a waste of time.
After reading some of the other "tips" here, I started to think this was not an allergy to make-up(which I wear lightly most days and never had a problem with and no sensitivity) or perfume(which I love and have worn all my adult life) or food or other scents(even though since last week, I have been going without makeup or perfume and using a very basic shampoo and soap in the shower). I got the feeling this was an internal sugar/yeast thing or else a severe reaction to mold. I stopped eating any sugar, and no processed wheat anything.  I decided to try Oil Of Oregano and Milk Thistle caps--to cleanse out my liver and possible overload of sugar and yeast in my body.

This wasn;t really helping the puffiness though, and I kept applying jojoba oil(the only thing that didn't sting my eyes) and applying cold compresses to try to make me look a little less like I was old, tired and had been crying(combined with lizard-y skin on the upper swollen eyelid and a red "line" that looked like a big baggy wrinkle under my right eye). After obsessively researching the internet all weekend, I read about different types of molds and candia infections(related to jock itch and athlete's foot and that there were other forms of funguses the skin can be afflicted with) and that often Nizoral(ketoconazole) cream was used to treat it.

I told my husband I was going to go to a walk-in clinic and tell them that I thought I needed to get a prescription for Nizoral cream(I somehow "knew" I did not want to waste my time with steroids and more hydrocortizone creams which I felt the doctors would insist on giving me).
Then, my husband said he HAD Nizoral(ketoconazole 2% cream) cream in the house. His doctor had prescribed it to him in the summer for athlete's foot. I noticed on the tube it said "not for opthamalic use" but I was desperate and knew I would not get it IN my eyes--just around it. I applied it and left for work. As the day progressed, I "felt" like my eyes were getting back to normal. Sure enough, when I got home, I looked almost like my old self again! Kept applying the jojoba oil, though--skin on the eyelids still red and dry with a little of the wrinkly stuff left(especially in the inner corners of my eyes)
Right before bed, I applied the Nizoral cream once more(even though it says once a day is best, and from here on in, I'll do it once a day--before bed). My eyes were back to normal this  morning(maybe just a little of the redness left and a little of the puffiness, and only a little of the wrinkled look left, too) Before this, looking in the mirror made me want to cry and I had to keep piling on cold compresses to try to ease the swelling.

So...(sorry this is SO long) I really think somehow I picked up a fungus.
Perhaps eye shadow? I have thrown out all my eye make up and will probably stick to pencil eyeliner and mascara--no eye shadow-- from here on in.
Perhaps from work. I had a stressful December there with long hours and wasn't eating right those days(living on crackers and cookies....sugar and processed food overload) AND we use a compressor to run a machine upstairs(a mat cutter--I work in a frame shop). This compressor, we discovered, had a leak and when we drained it--there was almost black, moldy water in it. Now, we use the "air" from the compressor, also upstairs(the compressor is down in the damp basement which has flooded a few times and my boss NEVER addresses the problem by drying it out) as a blower, to blow dust off of pictures  before we seal them under glass. The two weeks before Christmas, we discovered water instead of air coming out of the house(we use a nozzle sprayer for the air) becasue it was malfunctioning. Basically, I think there were "mold spores" floating around at work after this got sprayed into the air at work and coupled with my bad diet, stress and maybe some mold at home(with most windows closed now that it is winter) it affected my eyes. Or..maybe it was a fungus I got somehow(the eyeshadow idea?). Either way, I know if this happens again, that I will reach for the Nizoral cream(I need to apply this now once a day for about two weeks to make sure this clears up)

This was also a wake up call for what I was putting IN my body--I will try hard to eat much less sugar and processed food and more fruit, veggies and whole grains.

Again, sorry this was so long and not to the point, but I hope the Nizoral cram and fungus/mold connection might be what is also the answer to other's skin/eyelid problems. And, if I hadn't found boards like this with similar stories, I don't think I would have been able to figure this out(and would have been stuck weeks looking and feeling like hell and dealing with doctors who couldn't help me)

[SarahBearah184]

Hi, my husband doesn't wear make-up or anything and the skin surrounding his eyes are red, itchy, and sightly puffy. He did use hair spray for the first time in a while. We put some eye drops in and his eyes are beginning to look a little better. We'll just have to wait and see...but it's definately an allergic reaction of some sort.

[DMarie88]

Vinegar as a topical brought relief, but only briefly. Eyelids are exceptionally dry, cracked, sore--almost calloused. Worst it has been. FYI, re: Neem oil: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neem_oil states it contains steroids....also used in treating skin diseases. Happen to have a small jug, from Logee's in CT!, and am defrosting it now! (Forgot it was outside...)

If anyone else has similar symptoms, would appreciate comments.

[Raccoon444]

Can't believe I stumbled on this site.  What a blessing.  Ditto on nearly EVERYTHING posted.  Especially the posts about not being able to present your face in front of family, work, gosh I feel like people stare at me at the grocery "Hey, really!  I don't shoot Heroin!"  I wonder if my 47 yo eyes will ever look like 37 yo eyes again.  I look like I've aged 10 years in the past week.  So, just started using Neem Oil last night.  Brand is Organix South from Whole Foods.  QUESTION: Is it supposed to smell this incredibly foul?  ARGH!

[Raccoon444]

Do you all feel like me, HELD HOSTAGE by this?  I am fortunate to work from a home-based office, but really, truly, I have no time to take breaks to bathe my eyes, keep a food/treatment journal; maybe that's my problem: not taking care of me.  And how to strategize treatments and cover-up solutions when you absolutely must go out in the world?  I'm seriously concerned my son's school thinks I am a victim of spousal abuse or a drug addict.

Thank you all for your wonderful sharing.  Two thoughts hit me today, and I apologize for not giving credit to the authors who generated them...  not enough time to search for the original posts.  I hate plain water and drink a lot of carbonated, sodium-free, sugar-free flavored water.  Could my body be suddenly fed up with articifical sweetener?  Then there's the house water.  We're in a new home on municipal well water with water softener.  Actually the house is new to us, but is 7 years old.  Water is also filtered thru the fridge and freezer.  I wonder if the water softener has ever been flushed and cleaned...  could it be harboring mold?  Any thoughts on whether I can treat it without flushing it?  White vinegar?  A little bleach?  Lysol liquid?

I started Neem Oil last night and had to get up in the middle of the night to get it OFF of me and change the pillowcase.  NAUSEATING.  Changed over to EM.  This morning the eyes look better, but not even close to healing.  Tonight, I will start Oil of Oregano caps, Nizoral treatment, new shampoo, conditioner and soap.  Threw away all makeup (I generally was able to go out with none or just a bit of liner, mascara and spot foundation-  not any more!), all hair product, soaps, even the liquid soap in the dispensers.

I'll close with saying nothing is new product-wise in our lives.  Divorce, moving, new job though...  wonder if it's stress finally hitting me.  Thanks again all.  Hope something, somewhere in these posts helps each of us.  Sounds like we are in charge of our own solutions and the docs are clueless.  Please continue to update us on your disappointments and victories!

[srenee615]

Went to my 4th doc appt. yesterday, a dermatologist. He was fairly useless. He was more interested in telling me about the three drugs he's helped develope (I could care less!!) He said he doesn't know what this rash is but he suspects it's an allergy to something. He said he wife looks just like I do if she gets around cats. I live in two locations and each has a cat, but I've been around both of them for years with no problem. I know the immune system changes with age, but I have a hard time beleiving all of a sudden I have an over the top allergy to both of them. I really hope this is not the case, as they are my babies. I'm really at my wits end with this problem.

[Raccoon444]

Oh yeah, and does anyone have this around the mouth as well?  Not in the cracks, but above and below the lips?  OH PLEASE, I don't want to look like a monster anymore!

[DaliGal]

Sorry to learn that yet another person is going through this same mysterious eye problem(I am *trying* not to make too much out of it, considering people in Haiti and other situations are dealing with a lot more than just some itchy old looking eyes).

I had the VERY same thing around my mouth last night! Red, itchy rash above and below my mouth(but not anywhere too close to my lips.
I have normally oily skin and have NEVER had any skin rashes or sensitivity(other than pimples) or allergies(except 30 years ago when I had this same thing happen to my eyes and never figured out why) and then right before supper, I noticed tis itchy rash on my face. After supper, it got much worse and even my forehead was getting itchy. I put on jojoba oil and it settled down and now there is no trace of it ttoday. I have been eating really well since Saturday mmorning--no sugar, no wheat--healthy foods, but ate a handful of Cape Cod Potato Chips before supper. Figured they were a okay since it's potatoes, canola oil and sea salt and I have never had any food allergy before(that I know of).
I have also thought of mold in a water supply, too.(your mind goes crazy trying to make all these connections) because
at work we get delivered water in a cooler and a few weeks ago a co-worker said something about the rim was getting moldy and should be cleaned. I didn't pay much attention to it then, but was about to make myself some tea at work today by using the "hot water" nozzle" when I remembered! Could it be? Anyway, I didn't make any tea.

[DaliGal]

A little update, after starting on applying the Nizoral cream to my lids once daily(since Monday):
While my eyes looked almost back to normal yesterday(just that criss-cross wrinkled patterned on my upper lids at the inner corners and some discoloration still), my left eye was acting up again this morning. There were two red lines underneath and a very slight puffiness(nothing like before, tho) and it felt weird and dry and tight and a little tingly.
I put my daily dose of the Nizoral cream on it before leaving for work, with just a thin line of pencil liner(purchase new yesterday) and some mascara on my lashes(not even touching the base) and no jojoba oil over the Nizoral cream. Both my eyes still felt weird and tight and dry and the left one was itchy again. I kept my hands of it of it though as much as I wanted to scratch and now, 8 hours later, it feels better after getting home and smearing on some more soothing jojoba oil.
So..I still have to give this some time and  while my eyes are not back to complete normal they certainly still look a hundred times better than how they looked a few days ago.

[fms3g]

I have had this same eye thing going for months. Been to 4 Doctors. Antibiotic drops, allergy drops, cortizone cream, nothing helps. I tried the Fgyptian Magic but it burned my face. I didn't put it around my eyes, but tried it on my face. I am allergic to bee stings so I figure that is why I reacted to it. I have tried  Dr. H. eye cream with Neam oil from Whole Foods. It worked fabulously. I continued to use it after the eye was back to normal. After 3 weeks the eye swelled up and got all red again. Went to my primary care Doctor yesterday he said he tells his patients to only use an oil for no more than 2 weeks because they can develope a reaction to them. Said to stop using it and see if it gets better. I did and the eye is somewhat better. He also gave me a script for an antifungal cream with cortizone in it. It had to be compounded. If you have a thyroid problem which I have that can also be the cause.

I went to a chiropractor today that does NAET allergy illimination. Everything she tested on me I reacted to. I am a very sensitive person with alot of allergies. Will continue with the allergy illimination treatments and see if it makes a difference. She told me today that the eyes are the outlet for the liver. My liver is in bad need of a cleansing.

Am really sick of this swelled up and red eye, the good thing is that it doesn't itch. Hoping that something works pretty soon.

[Raccoon444]

Interesting comment about your eyes being the window to your liver.  Happy to report that today is Day One on the Road to Recovery, and let's hope it's longterm.  Last night's regimine was Dr. H only and one cap of Oil of Oregano.  NO EXAGGERATION, within 20 minutes the red-ringed eyes were gone.  This morning, the entire areas of irritation were flaking off.  Gently cleansing to remove that, the irritation is almost completely gone and the wrinkly remains of the trauma are much improved.  KNOCK on WOOD and give it a try...

What is Oil of Oregano?
Numerous university studies have shown that Oil of Oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. Oil of Oregano is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans.

It is important not to confuse Oil of Oregano with common oregano that is used as a spice for cooking. Common oregano is typically Origanum Marjoram, while Oil of Oregano is derived from Origanum Vulgare.

Oil of Oregano can be purchased as either a liquid or as capsules/tablets. In both forms, it is important to verify that the oil is derived from the proper potent oregano plant, and that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%.

What are the Benefits of Oil of Oregano?
The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize oregano oil for its health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is known to be a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections.

Some of the specific benefits of Oil of Oregano are:
•Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems.
•Strengthening the immune system.
•Increasing joint and muscle flexibility.
•Improving respiratory health.


Uses of Oil of Oregano
Skin Infections
Oil of Oregano can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums, but only if it has been diluted. Always follow the instructions on your particular bottle before applying topically onto the skin, since highly concentrated oils may first need to be mixed with Olive Oil or Coconut Oil before application (usually one teaspoon of Olive Oil or Coconut Oil per one drop of Oil of Oregano).


Digestive Problems
The high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol in Oil of Oregano have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Therefore, a quick home remedy for mild indigestion is to drink a glass of milk or juice that is mixed with 2 or 3 drops of the oil.


Sinus Congestion
Oil of Oregano is a wonderful natural remedy for sinus congestion. A common solution is to add 3 drops of the oil into a glass of juice and drink this mixture daily for 3 to 5 days.


Colds and Sore Throats
Oil of Oregano is an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Simply take 3 drops of Oregano Oil once per day (you can mix it into a glass of orange juice) and you should notice results within a few hours. Repeat this once per day for up to 5 days until the symptoms are gone.


What are the Side Effects of Oil of Oregano?
While Oil of Oregano has many benefits, there are a few possible side effects:
•Oregano oil may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron. Therefore, it is recommended that any regular use be combined with regular consumption of iron supplements. For this reason, pregnant women are advised not to take Oil of Oregano regularly.
•People that have allergies to thyme, basil, mint, or sage may be sensitive to Oil of Oregano as well, since they are in the same family of plants. If any skin irritation, rashes, or vomiting occurs when using it, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult your doctor.


Where and How to Buy Oil of Oregano
Oil of Oregano can be found in almost any natural health or nutrition store, or from online retailers such as Amazon.com (see below). Make sure that the oil is derived from Origanum Vulgare, and that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%.

[Raccoon444]

One gal posted that she replaced all of her eyeshadow applicators/brushes.  Pretty sure you need to replace the product too as who knows if the shadows themselves aren't also contaminated.

[rachaelmc]

Hi!  I was thinking that it could be a cause of one of the medications I'm taking, either Zolpidem Tartrate (Ambien) or Clonazepam.  Anyone else take these and have the same red itchy eyelids?

[rachaelmc]

Hi!  I was thinking that it could be a cause of one of the medications I'm taking, either Zolpidem Tartrate (Ambien) or Clonazepam.  Anyone else take these and have the same red itchy eyelids?

[tootired10]

UPDATE:  Last week I started to get that ITCH again, one eye only, in the inside corner both top and bottom skin.  Sure enough it swelled, turned bright red and despite my former remedies, it did not go away, started to peel, blah, blah.  I was sooo upset!  It got so bad I pulled out some cortisone to no avail.

About 2 months ago I started using a homemade apple cider vinegar toner.  I didn't dare put it anywhere near my eyes.  Well, since nothing was helping my new lid problem I decided to try the toner as I recalled seeing someone else post about it here.
I used a DILUTED (1/4 organic ACV 3/4 water) and gently dabbed it over my inflamed areas. Do not swipe it on.  Apply some to a cotton pad or ball and squeeze out the excess then dab!  It did sting a bit and I immediately covered it with EM.  The itch stop completely and the next day all swelling was gone and I was left with a bit of peeling.  I continued to dab the diluted ACV solution on both lids 2x per day.  IT'S WORKING WONDERFULLY!!!!

If you are going to attempt this use caution , do not get it into your eyes and be sure to dilute it.
PS I use Organic ACV with mother sold in any health food stores.

[RubbedRaw]

I was so surprised to find that so many other people were exepriencing the same eye lid condition I was, I almost fell over.  I tried the NEEM and beside it stinking to high heaven and burning like an SOB, it did nothing.  I tried Egyptian Magic also, and thought it was going to do the trick.  But, no such luck.  Then I found ruta graveolens and apis mellifica on Seacoast Vitamins.  For two days I have had no itching.  I am not sure if that is a result of left over Prednisone in my system or not.  (Don't take the Prednisone unless NOTHING else works, it's murder in a bottle for sure.)  Actually, it was the fact that the Prednisone worked when nothing else would that got me thinking about anti-inflamatory homeopathic remedies. I kept asking myself (since all the doctor did was shrug in my general direction when I asked him) "Why in the world would an anti-inflamitory drug stop my eyes from itching?"  So, I went online again and found the above mentioned homeopathic remedies.  Since I didn't want to wait for the stuff to be shipped from Seacoast Vitamins, I went to Whole Foods and picked it up.  They are little tiny pills you hold under your tongue until they dissolve.    I was at Petsmart holding kittens before going to Whole Foods and my eyes had started itching ... again.  As soon as I got the Ruta Graveolens and Apis Mellifica, I popped them under my tongue and within minutes my itching and swelling was GONE, GONE, GONE!  I have been using it ever since ... just two days ... with very positive effect.  I am ordering the NIA 24 to see if that will help repair the damage I have done to my eyes from rubbing them so much.  Hopefully, that will help since like most of you, I perfer not to look in the mirror anymore.  I can see the look on people's faces when they haven't seen me in a while, they wonder how I could have aged so fast.  Very embarassing.  Thanks for your posts, they were a huge help.  I will keep using the RG and AM and let you know if it is the real deal or not.

[julz947]

hello there everybody. Ive been reading this web site and i have same thing with my eyes and had it for 8 months already so today i went and bought neem oil and put it on my eye lids but then it started burning like crazy, is that ok ? or i did something wrong?? please help

[DMarie88]

Neosporin applied very thinly, followed by Neem a few hours later--and "sealed" with Vaseline, dramatically improved cracked, peeling, dry, and formerly pruritic, upper eyelidS--had it on both.

Whether Neem oil burns or not--is going to depend on a lot of factors, probably?? That is why these homemade remedies must be approached with very great care. That said, it seems doctors, including optho., don't really know how to treat these conditions.    

[signore]

Hi all,

I have experienced itchy eyelids for about 5 months and, same story as all of you, doctors couldn't properly diagnose it and nothing they prescribed worked. I saw this forum last week and tried Egyptian Magic based on all of your rave reviews, but it did not really help me.

It occurred to me yesterday to try Bach Rescue Remedy Cream since I've always had great results with the tincture. I have only used it for one day, so I don't want to speak too soon, but I experienced relief for the first time in forever.

It burned a bit putting it on, but I'm sure that's because my eyes are so raw. I could feel the cream penetrating and softening the thick, scaly skin over the course of the day. I reapplied it a few times and feel much better. There's still more to treat, but so much better for the first time in months. I also had a small rash on my stomach and figured I'd use the cream there too. That is mostly gone today too.

I have never written in a forum like this, but I looked for help online and could not find a suggestion that sounded right or seemed to be targeted at the symptoms I was experiencing until this forum, so just wanted to add what's worked for me in case anyone else is looking for options.

Feel better.

[tootired10]

to reiterate what DMarie88 said "Use extreme caution" when trying a home remedy.
As far I I'm concerned intense burning=wash off immediately!  You may be allergic to the item.  Slight stinging "may" be ok but it persists for more than a few seconds, wash off.

Please try a home remedy on your neck or face 1st to see if you experience a reaction.
Also, any cream based products will sting or burn and I avoid them.

[milliechar]

Water softeners. salt water softeners to be precise, I think this is the culprit in my case, In fact I'm sure of it, I suffered for  2years before heading off to uni of my scabs all over my scalp and extremely dry hair, and my eyes lids and round my mouth about a hour after showering, used to just peel non-stop, like I had sunburn, leaving them red, sometimes split and wrinkley, I went to uni feeling self-conscious of the wrinkles although minor, at this point and the scars it left behind. I never really linked the two; my dry skin and the softener until I realised at university where there was no water softener in the house, I could shower whenever I wanted and didn't have the flaking or tightness at all. i actually found it soothed my skin somewhat. I did some research and it happens that I have a low oil produce coming from my glands so the salt in the shower was taking what little moisture out of my skin,and cells need moisture to stay alive thus, causing it be dry and inflamed and to flake. I am unfortunately back at home now from university and the problem is worse than ever, I find though, the wrinkles that appear almost over night, the most distressing especially as I am only 21 years old. My parents say its not possible for them to switch the softener off so it is a dilemma I'm having to face until I moved out. Its alot more disabling than people might think.
Thoughts?

[marilynpr]

I too have been afflicted with the red, swollen eye condition for about 4 days now.  Having read all the comments very late one evening, thought of what I had in the house that I could take and came up with antihistamines (reactin ND) and vitamin e capsules which I rubbed in all over the eye area and it really relieved the itchiness and sandpaper texture that I had around the eye area and presumably it was the antihistamines that helped with the swelling (one morning I had woken up with a triple eye-lid).  I have since switched to an ointment recommended by my local health food store dispensary (I'm in Toronto, Canada) that I could safely use in the eye area: onguent 270/zalf 270 by unda.  I checked out the Egyptian Magic but as it had pollen in it and as I have not yet been able to determine what the cause of this flare-up is, decided to stay away from pollen.  As for the antihistamines, on advice of my doctor , I am switching to ?Aurius? ND which apparently produces less drowsiness than reactin ND (funny, I always thought ND meant Non-Drowsy, but guess it really means "less drowsy" than the ones that are not ND!!  I have in the past been plagued with sinus issues (chronic sinus infections, even after a turbinectomy, etc.) and do a daily nasal rinse.  I'm not convienced that some of the liquid from the rinse is not staying in the nasal passage area, so have asked my doctor to send me to an ears, nose and throat specialist to have it checked out!  So, I am now left with a bit of itching now and then which I relieve for the most part by more onguent 270  and a bit of redness and swelling, the swelling moreso when I first wake-up and then between being vertical vs. lateral, along with the application of some cold compresses (frozen make-up pads).  The weather is just getting cold again here after an unusual warm spell for January; so we'll see what the next few days bring...I envision having back my nice, smooth, health-looking skin!

[marilynpr]

Has anyone considered that their allergic reaction could be to eyeglasses ie frames, lenses or nose pieces; that is the theory that I'm currently working on.  I have my optometrist finding out what recently purchased glasses are made with and coatings, etc. and have asked my GP to make an appointment for me with an allergist. With the regime I mentioned above; I am about 95% cleared from where I was a few days ago.  If you google "allergies to eyeglasses" you will get info from other forums, as well as optometrists themselves telling you which frames are hypoallergenic and which ones are not - people usally are allergic to ones with nickel in.  Also sometimes the extra coating you may choose for your lenses may be the culprit or the nose pieces may be silicone which some people are allergic to and you can ask your optometrist to replace them with vinyl ones. Tonight I am wearing my contact lenses which I have not been able to wear for several months due to a milder irritation/allergy that I had been living with (I am still on antihistamines.)  I will post as to how I make out.  

[mgillum]

After reading all entries, here are my conclusions.  I have to agree with one commentor that the ingredient "propylene glycol" which is found in products like Cataphil (For All Skin Types), and fingernail polish removal which contains this same ingredient may be the culprit.  I have been exposed to both products over the weekend and woke up with swollen, red eyes after using both products.  The cetaphil was a new product I was trying out and the fingernail polish remover I  had not used in quite some time.  I have seen the eye doctor who prescribed a steroid in which the swelling and redness have gone away but not the itchy, flaky eyelid part.  

I will discontinue use of both products and make sure other items like lotions and costmetics do not contain this ingredient.  I think cleaning the eyelids with baby shampoo at least once a day is still a good idea.

Also, I cannot rule out the Vitamin deficiency.  I quit taking my multivitamin trying to save cost this past year.  So back on the daily vitamins.  

And finally, I think we are dealing with more allergies than ever.  

[SherryLea]

Did you ever find any relief? I have the same problem. My eyes itch then they swell. And then they get so dry and wrinkled, and burn when I try to put anything on them. My eyelid issue is so painful and ugly that I dread getting up in the mornings. I feel terrible and I hate how this has aged me. I look so old now. And going without makeup doesn't help.  If anything it makes it worse... drier and more wrinkly looking. I have tried many things and nothing works. Even lotion burns so bad I can barely stand it. It sounds crazy but this is seriously impacting my ability to do almost everything.

[Sunshine2b4us]

Try Burt's bee res q ointment. it is wonderfu. The only thing I can use on my eyelids and sensitive skin that takes away the burning, red swelling and itich

[Sunshine2b4us]

I have been going through all the same problems with the skin all around my eyes swelling, burning and itching like crazy. And the skin was so sensitive I could not use any cream of any kind without it setting me on fire. My eyelids were so wrinkled from this. but, I started elimInating everything I used one by one and still no change. Until I realized it was an allergy to dust!! Now, I keep my linens and everything in my bedroom dust-free as much as possible and it has been  a long time and no more flare-ups. I also use Burt's Bees Res Q Onintment on my skin around my eyes and it healed it all up and no more wrinkles!  I love this stuff. Got the EM cream and just wasted my money. Never took away the burning or itching at all.  With all of you waking up with swollen eyes, you could be allergic to dust mites.

[kreenybean]

Nikim00n, my flareups are also only in the winter, although when I sweat excessively onto my eyelids, which I sometimes do in the summer, I can tell that their is a sensitivity.

I posted on another thread here in detail about my specific symptoms, saying that I think there are two or three different manifestations of similar conditions. But I do want to mention in particular here, that I noticed today that when I itch my eyes with my fingers or after patting on concealer in the undereye area the eyes "burn" and water profusely afterwards. Also my bangs would irritate the eyelids during some of the past bouts. It is almost as if there is a toxin being secreted from my pores, because the tears that come out of my eyes in turn cause the dryness and flaking on the eyelids.

All that to let people know that maybe they should not use their fingers when putting on the various treatments, but instead Q-tips or something similar. I would be interested to hear if that makes a difference to anyone. I have tried many of the oils and lotions mentioned here, but have put them on with my fingers up to now. Am going to retry some of them sine nothing has helped up to now.

[toored]

I was so relieved to find this forum and unfortunately all who suffer with this awful affliction.  I am trying like crazy to figure out what has brought this to surface.  It had previously only been dry red itcy patches under my eyes.  Now I am experiencing puffy (more like blowfish looking) eyes upon waking.  I have tried aquaphor, which didnt seem to do a thing.  I tried the acv with mother that just burned to high heavens.  Finally today I just couldnt take it any more and applied steroid cream with some shea butter then over it.  I am going to try the oil of oregano in hopes of some relief but if that doesnt work I guess I will head to the opthamaligist.  Two flare ups in 2 weeks is not a trend I want to follow.  

[tootired10]

Although each person is different and the triggers will be different in everyone, I'll go out on a limb and say that it is in major part due to allergies to dust/dust mites or pets.  Why it manifests itself in inflammation of the lids only, is a complete mystery.  Normally my allergy symptoms are more common like sneezing, itching and hives on other places on the body.
I've thrown away all feather bed (quilts, pillows)items that can harbor dust mites.  I bought a mattress pad dust mite protector as well.  I vacuum thoroughly often and I put my pillow into the dryer on high heat occasionally to kill off anything that might be living there.

While this has made a big big difference I still get the occasional episode although they have become  manageable.

Currently I am using ACV diluted!!!! on my lids 2x per day (Do not do this if your lids are completely inflamed!) and layer it with EM. I found that my favorite concealer , Cle de Peau was causing a rash on my lower lids so I switched to Lancome Effacernes with no problem.  I do not wear any other eye makeup except for mascara.  I don't dare.

Please keep in mind that some of the suggested remedies here are 2 part.  Some that relieve symptoms and those that prevent symptoms.  My regimen is a preventive one at the moment.
Have a nice day people!

[DMarie88]

Agreed: feathers may be contributing (pillows in this case), and something considered last week. Also: dry with sterile cloths only. Never use hands, fingers--ever. Choice of application must be made with utmost care. Not sure which it can be attributed to but problems cleared up entirely last week.

[flodes]

Thank you Thank you Thank you!!! I was going crazy with this problem until I found this forum.  I tried everything and made my redness, flaking and swelling worse.  I wanted to share what worked for me.  Neem oil, yes, it smells really bad but it does work! It dired out my skin so I now use it with shea butter at night and just the shea butter during the day.  In two days things have really improved!! I look almost human now! I also bought some hypoallergenic mascara.
I don't know what the trigger is/was but a friend of mine said she became sensitive to make up she had been using for years.
I will let you all know if this continues to work!!

[redeyes47]

The oregano oil has practically cleared up the scaly patches on my upper and lower lids.  I use 25 drops of organic virgin olive oil and just ONE drop or oregano oil.  I lightly apply it to my lids.  The olive oil really moisturizes the lids.  I put what was left over around my nose where I battle constantly with rosecea.  It's gone too.

[redeyes47]

That's EXTRA VIRGIN olive oil

[Serenehart]

Thank you so much ... I have had this condition for years.  I use Bare Minerals and wondered if that was the cause.  I have not worn eye makeup for several years either.  Now I am unable to wear my contacts because my eyes hurt.  Been to PCP and eye doc - no help.  It is mostly in my left eye.  I had a facial on Saturday and wow did that help and give me relief for 2 days - now it is back again. She said I had very dry skin.  I have read several options listed above - it seems like not all solutions work fo everyone.    I will try the vineger and baby shampoo wash first.  Then see what happens.  So very glad to find I am not alone.