Dandruff on eyelashes and eyebrows is not uncommon. If you are suffering from dandruff on your scalp you are more likely to have dandruff on your eyelashes and brows. Just like on scalp, dandruff on your eyelashes and eyebrows appear as white flakes and crusts. Dandruff in this area of eye is chronic condition. Although it is concerning medical problem for your eyes, it is not dangerous. It does not affect your vision. Sometimes along with dandruff patient may complain of eye irritation, itchy and burning sensation on eyelashes and eyebrows.
What Causes dandruff on eyelashes and eyebrows?
Conditions such as blepheritis and seborrheic dermatitis are known to cause dandruff on eyelashes and eyebrows.
Blepheritis: Inflammation and irritation in the margin of eyelids is called blepheritis. This can develop due to several reasons. Staphylococcal bacterial infection, fungal infection, blocked meibomian gland, dry eyes, and in rare cases demodex mites can cause blepheritis. Dandruff is often accompanied with belpheritis. Patient also experiences itching and burning sensation with a gritty feeling in his eyes when he suffers from blepheritis.
Seborrheic dermatitis: It is a chronic skin condition with unknown etiology. Usually seborrheic dermatitis is commonly observed on scalp but sometimes it can also affect eyelashes and eyebrows. The classical feature of this skin condition is white and yellowish flakes which may develop at the root of hair, in this case near the hair root of eyelashes and eyebrows.
How Do You Treat This?
Although the causes of dandruff in eyelashes and eyebrows appear to be frightening due to their medical names, the condition can be treated easily with simple home remedies and over the counter medication. The only care that you need to take is to be cautious while applying anything on the eyelashes or eyebrows. Avoid using harsh shampoos and chemical products that can harm your eyes. Never use anti-dandruff shampoos that you usually apply for treating dandruff on scalp. Here are some useful treatment measures to treat dandruff on eyelashes and eyebrows:
- Warm water: Soak a clean cloth in warm water. Place the clean cloth over eyelids and eyebrows. Let it remain there for 10 to 15 minutes. Using this method helps to clear off excess of oil accumulated on the eyelids together with dirt and dandruff. Follow this procedure regularly over a period of time. It also alleviates itching, dryness, and irritation that accompany dandruff.
- Almond oil: Massage almond oil on your eyelashes and eyebrows. Dandruff causes dryness in this area. Use of almond oil increases hydrates the dry layer. It keeps the area supple and smooth. It also nourishes the hair roots of eyelashes and brows thus it promotes good hair growth in both this area.
- Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel has natural qualities to expel bacteria and fungus. Both these microorganisms may be involved in causing dandruff in this area of eye. Application of aloe vera not only takes care of dandruff but it also soothes the eyelids.
- Baby shampoo: You can use baby shampoo to clean the dandruff from eyebrows or eyelashes. Dilute baby shampoo in warm water. Now dip a cotton swab in the shampoo and apply it over the eyebrows and eyelashes. Massage the area with your hands gently. This will clean away accumulated oil and dust together with dandruff from the area. It will also help in getting rid of fungal and bacterial infection from the lash line.
- Petroleum Jelly: Dandruff can occur due to dry skin. Petroleum jelly keeps the skin moist. It prevents dry skin from flaking. Apply petroleum jelly on the lashes and eyebrows with your finger tip. Wash your eyes after few hours.
Aside from using home remedies, follow these tips to prevent dandruff on your eyes.
- Drink plenty of water daily. Eat vegetables, fruits and avoid processed foods.
- Avoid applying eye makeup such as eyeliner etc.
- Add foods containing vitamin B complex in your diet.
- Clean your eyelashes and eyebrows regularly with warm water.