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

• Eyelid Contact Dermatitis, Irritant type
• Eyelid Eczema, Irritant type

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

• Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis is a form of eyelid contact dermatitis triggered by substances, such as chemicals, dust, and even cosmetics, that cause an irritation of the eyelid 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. Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis can lead to redness, itching, and burning sensation in either one or both the eyelids
• The main treatment of Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis is to avoid the known triggers, 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Irritant 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors or triggering factors for Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may be substances that irritate the eyelid on contact. These may include:

• Eye cosmetics, such as mascara, eye shades, and eyeliner, among others
• Dust and smoke particles
• Fiberglass fibers
• Drying agents
• Eye contact with any chemicals such as acids or alkalis
• Soaps, shampoos, and detergents
• Eye contact with chemicals in swimming pools

Some of the physical triggering factors that aid in development of the condition include rubbing or scratching the eyelid, very hot or cold weather, and high or low humidity.

The factors causing Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis may only affect the eyelids, since these are highly sensitive areas of the body. Other parts of the body may remain unaffected by such triggers.

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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Etiology)

• Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis develops as an inflammatory reaction of the eye to substances that irritate the eyelid
• Exposure of eyelids to the triggering substances, such as chemicals, cosmetics, or dust, usually takes place through direct physical contact. In some cases, it may be difficult to identify the exact trigger
• Research experts believe that a combination of environmental and/or genetic factors may be involved, which affect the skin barrier function

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

• A history of allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or atopic dermatitis
• Individuals with sensitive skin

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

The signs and symptoms of Irritant 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods that may be used for Irritant 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
• A skin tissue biopsy is not usually needed to diagnose Irritant 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis?

The following complications of Irritant 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 triggering substance

How is Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis Treated?

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

• Avoid known triggers
• Completely avoid scratching the affected eye (keep nails trimmed)
• Regularly wash eyelids with plain water or sterile saline solution
• 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis be Prevented?

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

• Avoid the known triggers such as cosmetics, body cleansers, or exposure to dust
• 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 Irritant Eyelid Contact Dermatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

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

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Irritant 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.