Proper eye care involves more than regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist. An important part of daily eye care is eyelid hygiene, particularly for people who are prone to dry eyes, irritation, inflammation of the eyelid  margins or dysfunction of the Meibomian glands.

The surface of the eye and the eyelids form a single functional system. The Meibomian glands are located within the thickness of the eyelids; they secrete lipids that form part of the tear film and help to reduce tear evaporation. Dysfunction of these glands may  be one of the factors contributing to the development or worsening of dry eye symptoms.

Therefore, proper and regular eyelid care can be an important part of preventing and managing certain conditions affecting the ocular surface.

HOW TO RECOGNISE PROBLEMS WITH THE EYELIDS?

Eyelid changes do not always attract attention in their early stages. However, you should consult an ophthalmologist if you notice:

• redness or swelling of the eyelids;
• itching, burning or irritation;
• flaking skin or crusting around the eyelashes;
• a gritty or foreign-body sensation in the eyes;
• increased sensitivity to light;
• eye redness;
• watery eyes or, conversely, a feeling of dryness;
• discomfort when wearing contact lenses.

These symptoms may occur with blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eye syndrome, allergic conditions and other eye disorders. This is why it is important not to rely solely on home care. If symptoms persist, you should have an ophthalmic examination.

WHY IS EYELID HYGIENE IMPORTANT?

Daily cleansing helps remove dust particles, make-up, excess sebum and other impurities from the edges of the eyelids.

Eyelid care is particularly important in cases of blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction. In such cases, a doctor may recommend a combination of measures aimed at cleansing the eyelid margins, maintaining normal meibomian gland function and improving tear film stability.

At the same time, eyelid hygiene does not replace medical treatment if an eye condition has already developed. The most appropriate care routine is determined on an individual basis.

HOW SHOULD YOU CARE FOR YOUR EYELIDS?

1. Wash your hands thoroughly

Wash your hands with soap and water before any contact with your eyes or eyelids.

2. Gently clean the eyelid margins

Special eyelid hygiene products can be used for cleansing, including wipes, foams or other products recommended by an ophthalmologist.

Cleaning should be gentle, without vigorous rubbing of the skin or eyes.

Do not use alcohol-based products, harsh soaps, cosmetic products or homemade solutions that are not specifically intended for cleaning the eyes.

3. Do not rub your eyes

Even if you experience itching or irritation, try not to rub your eyes. Rubbing can increase inflammation and mechanical irritation of the ocular surface.

4. Remove eye make-up regularly

If you use eye make-up, it is important to remove it thoroughly at the end of the day and follow good cosmetic hygiene practices.

Do not use cosmetics that are past their expiry date and do not share them with other people.

WHICH PRODUCTS CAN BE USED?

The choice of eyelid hygiene products depends on the condition of the skin, eyelid margins and tear film, as well as the presence of any underlying conditions.

An ophthalmologist may recommend:

• specialised eyelid cleansing products, such as foams, gels or wipes;
• lubricating eye drops for symptoms of dry eyes;
• other products or procedures, depending on the diagnosis.

If you have symptoms of dry eyes, it is advisable to discuss the choice of lubricating eye drops with your doctor. In some cases, preservative-free products may be preferred, particularly with frequent use.

It is important to remember: even over-the-counter products should not be used without proper guidance. If symptoms persist, the cause must be identified.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST?

You should consult a specialist if your symptoms:

• persist for a prolonged period;
• recur regularly;
• are accompanied by pain;
• cause significant redness or swelling;
• are accompanied by blurred vision or sensitivity to light;
• do not improve after following the recommended care routine.

It is particularly important not to delay seeing a doctor if you experience a sudden deterioration in vision, severe eye pain, pronounced sensitivity to light or significant swelling.

EYE HEALTH STARTS WITH PROPER DAILY CARE

Eyelid hygiene is a simple but important part of daily eye care. Proper cleansing, gentle care of the eyelids and timely consultation with an ophthalmologist can help maintain ocular surface health and control symptoms  associated with eyelid dysfunction.

Specialists at the SI “V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAMS of Ukraine emphasise that proper eye care should be individualised. If you experience dryness, irritation, redness or other discomfort, you should not rely solely on self-treatment. It is important to identify the cause of the symptoms and receive advice from an ophthalmologist.

Take care of your eyes every day. Prevention and timely professional care are important parts of maintaining good vision and quality of life.