Can blepharitis be cured?

Blepharitis is usually a long-term condition that is controlled rather than cured. Daily lid hygiene keeps most people comfortable, and flare-ups can be treated with short courses of medication. Stopping the routine often lets symptoms return, so consistency is the key.

Is blepharitis contagious?

No. Although bacteria and mites are involved, they are normal inhabitants of the skin in most people. Blepharitis arises from an imbalance or an individual's susceptibility, not from catching it from someone else. Sharing towels or makeup is still best avoided for general hygiene.

How do I do warm compresses properly?

Hold a clean flannel soaked in comfortably hot water, or a microwavable eye mask, against closed eyelids for five to ten minutes to soften the oil in the glands. Then gently massage the lids toward the lashes and wipe along the lid margin with a cotton bud dipped in diluted baby shampoo or a commercial lid cleanser. Doing this once or twice daily is more effective than occasional vigorous cleaning.

Eye & EarICD-10: H01.0Very common; one of the most frequent eyelid conditions seen in eye clinics, more so in older adults

Blepharitis

Also known as: Eyelid inflammation, Meibomian gland dysfunction

Blepharitis is chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins, the edges of the lids where the eyelashes grow. It causes red, itchy, gritty, crusty eyelids and is one of the most common eye complaints seen by doctors and optometrists. There are two overlapping forms: anterior blepharitis affects the outside of the lid around the lashes and is linked to bacteria or dandruff-like scaling, while posterior blepharitis involves the meibomian (oil) glands inside the lid, whose blockage leads to dry, irritated eyes. Blepharitis is uncomfortable and tends to recur, but it rarely threatens sight. A consistent eyelid hygiene routine controls it for most people.

At a Glance

Common symptoms: Red, swollen, or itchy eyelid edges, Crusting or flakes at the base of the eyelashes, especially on waking, Gritty, burning, or sandy sensation in the eyes
Main treatments: Daily eyelid hygiene: warm compresses, gentle lid massage, and cleaning the lid margins with diluted baby shampoo or a lid cleanser, Antibiotic ointment applied to the lid margins for anterior blepharitis, Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline for several weeks in posterior blepharitis or rosacea-related cases, used for their anti-inflammatory effect
Category: Eye & Ear · Very common; one of the most frequent eyelid conditions seen in eye clinics, more so in older adults
See a doctor if: Symptoms not improving after a few weeks of regular lid hygiene

Symptoms

Red, swollen, or itchy eyelid edges

Crusting or flakes at the base of the eyelashes, especially on waking

Gritty, burning, or sandy sensation in the eyes

Watery eyes or dry eyes

Eyelids stuck together in the morning

Sensitivity to light and blurred vision that clears with blinking

Recurrent styes or chalazia, and in long-standing cases loss or misdirection of lashes

Causes

Bacterial overgrowth (commonly staphylococcal) on the lid margin
Seborrheic dermatitis affecting the scalp, brows, and eyelids
Blockage or dysfunction of the meibomian oil glands
Demodex mites living in the lash follicles
Rosacea, which commonly affects the eyelids
Allergic reactions to eye makeup or eye drops

Risk Factors

Rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
Dry eye syndrome
Older age
Contact lens wear
Diabetes
Hormonal changes and certain medications such as isotretinoin

Diagnosis

History of symptoms and their pattern
Examination of the eyelids and eyes, often with a slit lamp to view the lid margins and gland openings
Checking for associated conditions such as dry eye, rosacea, or dandruff
Occasionally lash sampling to look for Demodex mites

Treatment

Daily eyelid hygiene: warm compresses, gentle lid massage, and cleaning the lid margins with diluted baby shampoo or a lid cleanser
Antibiotic ointment applied to the lid margins for anterior blepharitis
Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline for several weeks in posterior blepharitis or rosacea-related cases, used for their anti-inflammatory effect
Tea tree oil-based products for Demodex infestation
Lubricating eye drops for associated dry eye, and short courses of steroid drops under supervision for marked inflammation
In-office treatments such as thermal pulsation or intense pulsed light for stubborn meibomian gland dysfunction
Supportive: omega-3 fatty acids may improve oil gland function and dry eye symptoms for some people, though trial results are mixed

Prevention

Keep up eyelid hygiene even when symptoms have settled, as blepharitis tends to return
Remove eye makeup thoroughly every night and replace mascara regularly
Treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and face
Avoid rubbing your eyes
Follow good contact lens hygiene

When to See a Doctor

Symptoms not improving after a few weeks of regular lid hygiene
Pain, significant redness of the eye itself, or vision changes
A lump on the eyelid that is growing or not resolving
Loss of eyelashes or eyelid distortion
Recurrent styes or chalazia

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Dry Eye Syndrome

Eye & Ear

Stye

Eye & Ear

Chalazion

Eye & Ear

Rosacea

Dermatological

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Dermatological

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