Itchy Eyelids: What Causes Them and How to Treat Them

Itchy eyelids can result from any condition that irritates, inflames, or infects the eyelid. Allergies, blepharitis, and conjunctivitis are among the most common causes. Itchy eyelids can also occur with other symptoms, such as redness, swelling, a gritty feeling in the eye, irritation, lumps or bumps, increased tear production, or discharge. Although some conditions that affect the eyelids get better on their own, some may require treatment. Treatment may include applying cool or warm compresses to the eye or using eye drops, ointments, or other medications.

Read on to learn more about the causes, treatment, and potential complications of itchy eyelids.

Any condition that irritates, inflames, or infects the eyelid can cause itchy eyelids. Even a lack of sleep can cause your eyelids to itch. Your eyelids are very sensitive and well-supplied with blood vessels and nerves, so even slight inflammation can cause itchiness.

Allergies are among the most common causes of itchy eyelids. An allergy that affects your eyelid may be localized, resulting from an allergic reaction to eye makeup, or more generalized, resulting from a condition such as hay fever. Localized allergic reactions are often called contact dermatitis.

Other allergens that can cause itchy eyelids include:

• animal dander
• dust mites
• pollen
• mold spores

Another common cause of itchy eyelids is blepharitis. This is a condition that results from bacteria, dermatitis, or clogged oil glands. Blepharitis may also cause your eyes and eyelids to burn and become red or crusty.

There are two types Trusted Source National Eye Institute Governmental authority Go to source of blepharitis. Anterior blepharitis affects the area where your eyelashes meet your eyelid, while posterior blepharitis affects the inner part of your eyelid that touches your eye.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a condition wherein the membrane that lines the inner part of your eyelid and covers your eye becomes inflamed. Along with itchy eyelids, conjunctivitis can cause discharge, burning, and crusting along the eyelashes or eyelids.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source describes four general types of conjunctivitis.

• Bacterial: This type of conjunctivitis spreads easily and results from certain bacterial infections. It is more common in children.
• Viral: Different viruses, such as adenoviruses, can cause viral conjunctivitis. It is very contagious and can result in widespread outbreaks.
• Allergic: This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious and occurs after contact with an allergen. It occurs more commonly in people with other allergic conditions, such as asthma.
• Irritant: If a foreign substance — such as dust, smoke, or a chemical — enters the eye, it can cause conjunctivitis. This type is also not contagious.

Other common conditions can also cause itchy eyelids, including:

• a chalazion, which is a red bump on the eyelid that results from a blocked oil gland
• the common cold
• a stye, which is a red bump on the edge of the eyelid that typically indicates a bacterial infection

Itchy eyelids often occur with other eye symptoms, including:

• a burning feeling in the eyes
• a gritty feeling in the eyes
• eye discharge
• increased tear production
• redness and swelling of the eyes or eyelids

Depending on the cause of your itchy eyelids, other parts of your body may also show symptoms. These symptoms can include:

• a runny nose
• sneezing
• swelling of the face

In some cases, itchy eyelids may occur with other symptoms that could indicate a condition that requires immediate evaluation. Seek immediate medical care or call 911 if you have itchy eyelids along with other serious symptoms, including:

• difficulty breathing
• wheezing 
• choking
• a sudden change in vision, a loss of vision, or eye pain
• sudden swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

To diagnose the cause of itchy eyelids, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination. They will evaluate your eyes, eyelids, and eyelashes. They may also check your vision to see if you are experiencing any vision difficulties or vision loss.

In some cases, doctors may take Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source an eye discharge sample to test for infections.

The treatment for itchy eyelids will depend on the underlying cause. Bacterial infections may require Trusted Source National Eye Institute Governmental authority Go to source antibiotics in the form of eye drops, pills, or ointments. For itchy eyelids resulting from viral infections, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications.

To treat allergies affecting the eyes, you will need to avoid contact with the allergens. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, you may also need eye drops, prescription allergy medications, or allergy shots.

Many of the treatments for itchy eyelids can happen at home. Your doctor may recommend:

• applying cold compresses to the eye for allergies
• using eye drops known as artificial tears to help with dryness and irritation
• applying a mixture of warm water and a gentle cleanser to your eye area with a sterile cloth or cotton swab to loosen any crust or prevent clogged oil glands

Avoid touching your eyes and eyelids and wash your hands often to prevent infection from spreading and to avoid introducing new irritants into your eye.

Itchy eyelids generally result from treatable conditions and do not typically lead to serious complications. However, excessive rubbing or scratching in response to itchy eyelids can damage the eyelid skin and irritate or scar the surface of the eye. In addition, severe infections can lead to permanent eye damage if left untreated.

Once your doctor has diagnosed the underlying cause, it is important for you to follow their treatment plan to reduce the risk of potential complications, including:

• vision loss
• scarring of the eye
• spread of infection

These are a few other commonly asked questions about itchy eyelids. Dr. Sara Frye has medically reviewed these answers.

Cold compresses can help relieve itchy eyelids. If you are experiencing a blocked oil gland or crusty eyelashes, soaking a sterile cloth in a mixture of water and a gentle cleanser and applying it to your eye may also help relieve your symptoms.

Because any cream you put on your eyelids can get into your eyes, you should only use formulations intended for use in or around the eyes. Over-the-counter options include lubricating ophthalmic ointments, which can help heal dry, cracking skin on the eyelids. Medicated options are available by prescription only.

Depending on the cause of your eyelid dermatitis, it may go away on its own if you can identify and avoid the trigger.

Itchy eyelids can result from various conditions, including infections, allergies, and blocked oil glands. Other symptoms that may occur include burning or irritation in the eyes, redness, swelling, and discharge.

Your doctor will perform a thorough eye exam to diagnose the cause of your itchy eyelids. Treatment may include home remedies such as cold compresses or artificial tears, or your doctor may need to prescribe eye drops or ointments.

Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing itchy eyelids.