Why do you have Itchy Eyelashes and How Can You Prevent Them?

Our eyelashes rarely demand our attention, and when they become itchy out of the blue, it can feel like a cause for alarm. Sometimes, itchy eyelashes can be caused by a random irritant, such as an allergen in the air, while at other times, it can indeed be a cause for concern.

Let’s take a look at the different causes of itchy eyelashes, common treatments, and any prevention methods that you can explore!

What can cause itchy eyelashes?

The following are some of the most common causes of itchy eyelashes:

1. Allergens: If you are exposed to a known allergen, you can develop eye dermatitis as a result. The most common symptoms of this are itchy eyelashes, scaly skin, swelling and redness around the eyes.
2. Blepharitis: This is a chronic condition that causes itchy eyelashes, burning in the eyes, and swelling around the eyes. It can be caused due to many reasons such as bacteria in the eyes, clogged oil glands around the eyelash pores, seborrheic dermatitis, allergies, lice or mites in the eyelashes, and infections. 
3. Dry eye syndrome: This is a condition in which the eyes cannot naturally produce tears. Tears are a vital lubricant that keeps your eyes and eyelashes healthy. The lack of tears can cause dryness in the eyelashes, making them itchy.
4. Stye: If a stye has developed in the lash line, it can cause the area to start itching.
5. Phthiriasis palpebrarum: This means that there are lice in your eyelashes (and most probably your eyebrows also). Whenever there are lice present in the body, it results in itchiness.
6. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is a bacterial infection that occurs in the eyes and results in itchy eyelashes, along with other symptoms like redness and swelling. 

Of course, you may not be able to ascertain the reason why your eyes are itching just by yourself. Note that sometimes, itchy eyes can be accompanied by other symptoms. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should get in touch with your doctor right away:

• pain in your eye area
• blurriness in your vision
• oily, scaly skin on your eyelids
• swelling
• redness

Are there any treatments for itchy eyelashes?

As you may have surmised, itchy eyelashes can be caused due to a number of reasons, which is why the treatment course can vary based on the same. If the itchiness is caused due to allergies, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines to help with the same. However, if the problem is caused due to more severe conditions such as blepharitis or conjunctivitis, your doctor will recommend a course of antibiotics to clear the infections.

Can itchy eyelashes be prevented?

There are a few basic things that you can do in order to reduce the risk of developing infections that may cause itchy eyelashes. Some of these are:

• Change your linen regularly to prevent exposure to germs and bacteria.
• Do not use any eye makeup that is older than six months. Do not use testers in stores on your eyes.
• If you wear contact lenses, make sure you clean them after each use or switch to daily lenses to be on the safe side.
• Do not rub your eyes frequently. Try not to touch your eyes in general as they are very sensitive and even dirt on the hands can lead to problems.
• If you feel your eyes are sensitive and are susceptible to frequent infections, try switching to hypoallergenic products wherever possible (e.g.: pillowcases, face creams, makeup, and so on).

Why CFS?

CFS is one of the largest chains of eye care clinics in the country, and we work with leading ophthalmologists who can offer you effective and timely treatment. If your eyelashes have been itching lately, or you’ve noticed any of the other symptoms we’ve detailed above, then do make an appointment at your nearest CFS clinic today!