Eyelids can play a role in dry eye disease discomfort. The glands along the eyelids can get clogged or bogged down by bacteria, make-up residue and other debris. Keeping clean healthy eyelids can help ease dry eye discomfort.
Lid Scrubs are recommended to prevent the glands from getting clogged. Scrubs also stimulate meibomian gland secretions (lid scrubs along with heat treatment soften the glands and allow for flow of oil).
Lid Scrubbing does not mean you need to vigorously scrub your lids until it hurts! Gentle wiping will work just fine.
Here are a few tips on how to keep your lids clean and fresh:
Warm Compresses: Soak a clean washcloth with hot water. Fold the washcloth into a roll and hold it in contact with both eyelids until the cloth cools. Reheat the cloth and repeat this procedure for at least five minutes.
Lid Washing: Following these warm compresses, lightly wash the eyelashes and eyelids with your eyes closed using a mild soap, such as baby shampoo, diluted in one cap ful of water. You can use either your finger or a soft washcloth. You can replace baby shampoo with commercially prepared “lid scrub” products.
If you require a more gentle alternative, try using a cotton bud dipped in boiled distilled water or a saline solution, or a weak solution of baby shampoo.
Hygiene in dry eye patients is a long-term process. You will need to do it often at the beginning to clear out clogs and, as you feel an improvement in your symptoms; you can do it less frequently after a period of time.
