Eyelid HygieneDaily habit
Gentle Eyelid Hygiene
Learn gentle eyelid cleaning habits that may help reduce crusting, oil buildup, and irritation around the eyelids.
Why it matters
Eyelid hygiene may help some people with eyelid crusting, oily eyelids, irritation, or blepharitis-like symptoms, but a professional eye examination is needed for diagnosis and treatment.
The tips
- Wash hands before touching the eyelids.
- Mix a small amount of baby shampoo with clean water in the bottom of a cup, then use a clean cotton swab to clean the eyelashes.
- Use a warm compress if recommended by an eye care professional.
- Clean the eyelid margins gently.
- Do not scrub harshly.
- Do not rub the eyeball.
- Do not press hard on the eye.
- Do not use harsh soaps, perfumes, alcohol, or irritating products near the eyes.
- Remove eye makeup before sleep.
- Replace old eye makeup regularly.
- Do not share towels, makeup, eye drops, or eyelid wipes.
- Stop and seek professional advice if cleaning causes pain, worsening redness, swelling, discharge, or blurred vision.
Safe daily habits
- Use warm, not hot, temperature.
- Test warmth on the inside of your wrist first.
- Keep the eye closed.
- Use a separate clean wipe or pad for each eye.
- Throw away disposable wipes after use.
- Wash hands again after cleaning.
When to ask an eye care professional
- Eye pain
- Increasing redness
- Swelling
- Pus or discharge
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Eyelid lump that grows or does not improve
- Symptoms in a contact lens wearer
- Symptoms that keep returning
- No improvement despite gentle hygiene
- Any symptoms after eye surgery or eye procedure
Related reading
Have questions about your eyes?
This information is general education and does not replace a professional eye examination. If you are worried about your eyes, book an appointment.