Purposes:
- To promote and maintain the health of the eyelids and ocular surface
- To improve overall comfort of the eyes and eyelids
- To remove debris from the lids and eyelashes
- To improve the stability of the tear film and thus reducing blurry vision due to the instability
- To improve comfort with contact lens wear
- To inhibit growth of bacteria
Common Symptoms of Lid Margin Infections
- Crusting of eyelashes in the morning
- Red eyes in the morning
- Itching
- Uncomfortable bumps on the eyelids
- Discharge
Irritation of the eyelids and ocular surface can be caused by any one or a combination of the following:
- Poor lid oil gland function
- Genetic predisposition
- Dry Eye Syndrome
- Demodex (eyelash mites)
- Dirty, dusty, dry environments
- Hormonal changes
- Poor attention to regular lid hygiene
- Contact lens wear
- Bacteria overgrowth
Warm Compress and Gentle Massage
Taking care to not overheat the eye mask, start with a warm compress for 10 minutes. We recommend D.E.R.M. eye masks for effectiveness and ease of use.
2 times daily: after applying warm compress, gently massage the upper and lower lids for at least one minute to encourage the glands to express the thickened oils so they flow more freely.
Lid Scrubs
After the warm compress and gentle massage, with eyes closed carefully cleanse the base of the lashes in a side to side motion with a mild cleanser for 10-20 seconds. Based on your skin type Dr. David R. Pernelli or Dr. Terrance K. Heacox, Jr., OD will recommend either Igiene Lid Cleanser or Tea Tree Foaming Cleanser for your best individual results. These gentle cleansers combined with the mild rubbing action will remove debris and bacteria build up at the base of the lashes and on the adjacent lid margins. Perform 2 times daily in the morning and before bedtime. For more significant eyelid conditions you will be instructed on proper application technique of Acuicyn or Avenova.
Omega-3s (Essential Fatty Acids)
We recommend Physician Recommended Nutraceuticals (PRN) as our Omega-3 of choice. Available in 3 formulations, PRN is purified and refined to a reformed state which allows for complete absorption of Omega-3s. Due to its concentrated state, you can absorb 124% compared to only 72% of prescription strength Lovaza. We do not recommend over-the-counter fish oils due to poor quality and poor absorption which lead to a fishy odor or aftertaste.
NOTE: D.E.R.M. masks, Igiene Lid Cleanser, Tea Tree Foaming Cleanser and PRN supplements, and Nature’s Tears Eye Mist are available in our office.
For more information or to learn more about Lid Hygiene. contact the Eye Institute of South Jersey, PC, at (856) 205-1100.