What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Eyelid Contact Dermatitis, Allergic type
• Eyelid Eczema, Allergic type

What is Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis is a form of eyelid contact dermatitis triggered by allergic substances (or allergens), such as eye cosmetics, jewelry, or even topical medications, that cause an immune reaction resulting in an inflammatory response
• Contact dermatitis is a condition characterized by skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes in direct contact with substances that cause irritation or allergy to the skin. Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis can lead to redness, itching, and burning sensation in either one or both the eyelids
• The main treatment of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis is to avoid the known allergens, where possible. If necessary, the healthcare provider may recommend a short course of topical and oral corticosteroids. The prognosis is generally good with appropriate management of the condition

Who gets Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may occur in both children and adults
• It can affect both males and females
• The condition can occur worldwide; individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors or potential allergens for Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may include:

• Eye cosmetics and makeups including moisturizers, cleansing creams, face oils, perfumes, sunscreens, etc.
• Instruments or props used in makeup such as tweezers or curlers
• Jewelry that may be of any material including gold, silver, or nickel
• Hair dyes
• Shaving creams
• Contact lens solutions
• Eye ointment and drops
• Spectacles and goggles (such as used for sun protection or swimming)
• Nail polish or hand creams

In some cases, smoke, dust, or pollen may trigger the allergic eyelid condition.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Etiology)

• Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis develops as an inflammatory reaction of the eye to allergens resulting in an immune response (termed hypersensitivity reaction)
• It is reported that the reaction may develop after a few days following exposure to the allergic substance, thus making it sometimes difficult to identify the trigger (allergen)

Individuals who are more prone to developing the condition are those with:

• A history of allergic conditions such as atopic dermatitis
• Individuals with sensitive skin

Coming into contact with a potentially allergic substance regularly may induce an allergy due to repeated exposure.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis?

The signs and symptoms of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may involve one or both the eyelids, and include:

• The presence of red swollen eyelids
• Blepharitis or inflammation of the eyelids
• Irritation, burning, or stinging sensation
• Pain and discomfort
• The eyelids may appear scaly
• On continuation of exposure to the offending substance, increased skin markings (like wrinkles) and thickening may be noted
• It may be difficult to open the eye completely

How is Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods that may be used for Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history (including evaluating history for any allergic conditions)
• Eye examination and assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin patch test - it is: The most specific test is skin patch testing.
• Avoidance of all typical agents causing allergic contact dermatitis and gradual reinstitution, one item at a time per week
• A skin tissue biopsy is not usually needed to diagnose Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis?

The following complications of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may be observed:

• Emotional stress
• Cosmetic concerns such as dark circles
• Chronic itching and scaling of the skin may cause the skin to become thick, discolored, and leathery
• Secondary bacterial and fungal infections
• Treatment complications
• Recurrence of the condition on re-exposure to the allergen

How is Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis Treated?

Treatment strategies that may be adopted in the management of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis include:

• Use of topical corticosteroid creams for a short duration, as recommended by the healthcare provider
• Application of topical calcineurin inhibitors
• Short course oral steroids may be necessary in some cases

If any of the prescribed treatment medication or methods cause new stinging or burning symptoms, then it is important to discontinue the medication or method and immediately inform the healthcare provider.

A few self-care tips and home remedies for Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may include:

• Avoid known allergens
• Completely avoid scratching the affected eye (keep nails trimmed)
• Regularly wash eyes with plain water
• Always wash hands before touching the eyes or while applying topical creams
• Avoid eye makeups during the period of the skin condition
• If necessary, use protective eyeglasses or goggles

How can Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis be Prevented?

Currently, it may be difficult to prevent the onset of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis in some cases. In others, the following may be considered:

• Avoid known allergic substances such as cosmetics, eye drops, or exposure to dust mites or pollen
• Protect the eyes from dust, extreme weather conditions, and strong chemicals
• Avoid face/eye cosmetics and sunscreens that block the sweat glands (occlusive creams)

What is the Prognosis of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis is good with appropriate treatment and avoidance of the offending substance (allergen)
• Nevertheless, the condition may recur after complete resolution of symptoms following treatment on re-exposure of the eyelids to the allergens

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Allergic Eyelid Contact Dermatitis:

Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition.