Eyelash dandruff may be invisible, however its dangers aren’t. Eyelash dandruff, scientifically known as blepharitis, is a condition that includes crusty, dandruff-like flakes forming at the bottom of the eyelashes. Though slightly sizeable, specialists warn that it can pose sizeable risks to eye health if omitted. Contact lens wearers are specially inclined, as terrible hygiene can cause infections.
What Causes Eyelash Dandruff?
According to Dr. S.N. Jha, chairperson of ophthalmology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, eyelash dandruff arises from an overgrowth of micro organism or clogged oil glands at the eyelids. Contributing elements encompass:
- Excessive oil production
- Fungal growth
- Conditions along with seborrhoeic dermatitis or mite infestations (Demodex)
“It is commonplace for the duration of winter or seasonal transitions while pores and skin situations regularly flare up,” says Dr. Digvijay Singh, senior consultant at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram.
Symptoms to Watch For
Despite its subtle look, eyelash dandruff manifests through several signs:
- Itchy, crimson, or inflamed eyelids
- Crusty flakes at the base of lashes
- Gritty or burning sensations inside the eyes
- Light sensitivity and watery eyes
If left untreated, signs and symptoms can enhance into continual problems.
Why Is Eyelash Dandruff Risky?
Dr. Jha explains that eyelash dandruff is more than a cosmetic issue. Risks include:
- Chronic inflammation, redness, and swelling
- Dry eyes and eyelash loss
- Corneal damage and infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis
Contact lens wearers are specifically at danger. “Dandruff flakes and micro organism can persist with lenses, growing a breeding floor for infections,” cautions Dr. Vishal Arora, senior representative at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Gurugram. Proper lens hygiene and normal lid cleaning can appreciably decrease risks.
Prevention and Management
Experts emphasize that right eyelid hygiene is fundamental to stopping and dealing with blepharitis. Here’s what you could do:
- Clean eyelashes regularly using mild cleansers.
- Avoid expired make-up and remove all eye makeup before slumbering.
- Treat scalp dandruff directly, as it can unfold to the eyes.
- Use committed lid scrubs containing tea tree oil for powerful management.
If signs persist, go to an eye fixed professional. Treatments may also encompass medicated eye drops, ointments, or in severe instances, steroid treatments.
Don’t Overlook Eyebrow Dandruff
Similar to eyelash dandruff, eyebrow dandruff can also effect eye health. Experts hyperlink it to conditions which include scalp dandruff, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis. Symptoms consist of flaking and inflammation, that could shed into the eyes, exacerbating dryness or infection.
Prevention Tips for Eyebrow Dandruff:
- Treat scalp dandruff with medicated shampoos.
- Use gentle face cleansers and herbal moisturizers like tea tree oil or aloe vera.
- Avoid over-washing and chorus from picking on the vicinity.
- Apply bloodless compresses to lessen infection.