The eyelid is one of the most common areas for irritation, because the skin of the eyelid is extremely sensitive and more prone to allergic reaction than the tough skin on your hands. Although dry, itchy eyelids are usually attributed to makeup, the most common culprit is nail polish. When you rub your eye, the nail polish can cause an allergic reaction. There are a few ways to reduce the dryness on your eyelids, but the sensitivity of the area must be kept in mind.
Petroleum Jelly
is a wonderful alternative to regular body lotion. Most body lotions and creams contain fragrances and dyes that can actually cause more irritation on your eyelid, as well as a burning sensation. Dip a Q-tip into some petroleum jelly and spread a thin layer over your eyelid. Do not put chunks or thick layers over your eyelid; this will suffocate the skin and could cause more irritation. It is best to do this at nighttime right before bed, since petroleum jelly can leave eyelids looking shiny. Repeat this for about a week or until the dryness goes away. Sometimes, using petroleum jelly can cause eyelids to look somewhat puffy in the morning; however, this puffiness will go away quickly.
Do not mistake hydrocortisone gel for petroleum jelly. A corticosteroid, hydrocortisone is often used to reduce swelling and itching. However, it should never be used on your eyelid or in any other areas where the skin is thin; hydrocortisone can further thinning of the skin.
Eye Sticks
Moisturizing eye sticks can be found in any cosmetics or drug store, and are often packaged in lipstick tubes. Most eye sticks also double as lip moisturizers. The main ingredient in eye moisturizing sticks is typically Vitamin E oil, which is found in many different skin hydrators. Many eye sticks also contain sunscreen, which protects the thin skin of the eyelid from further irritation from ultraviolet rays.
Eye Cream
Moisturizing creams made specially for the area around the eyes can also be used to get rid of eyelid dryness and irritation. Many of these creams also double as a wrinkle reducer and dark undereye circle remover. An ingredient in apple extract, called tannin, is found in many eye creams. Tannin helps keep the skin around the eyes moisturized, slowing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as eradicating dryness.
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