### Causes and Treatments for Dry and Flaky Skin Around the Eyes The skin around your eyes is very delicate and can easily become irritated, leading to dryness and flakiness. Here are some common causes and treatments: #### Causes 1. **Aging**: As you age, your skin loses moisture and becomes drier. The loss of fat below the skin around your eyes makes this area more fragile and prone to flaking. 2. **Contact Dermatitis**: This occurs when the skin around your eyelids reacts to an irritant or allergen. Common irritants include cosmetics, soaps, and even nail polish. Touching your eyes with contaminated hands can spread these irritants. 3. **Lifestyle Choices**: Cold weather and low humidity can dry out your skin. Using hot water frequently can also strip your skin of its natural oils. 4. **Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)**: This long-lasting condition causes red, itchy skin and can affect the eyelids. Eczema often occurs in flares, with periods of normal skin in between. 5. **Blepharitis**: This condition causes inflammation of the eyelids, leading to redness, irritation, and dryness. It is often associated with clogged oil glands at the base of the eyelashes. #### Treatments 1. **For Aging**: Use moisturizers specifically designed for the delicate skin around the eyes. Look for products with hyaluronic acid or ceramides. 2. **For Contact Dermatitis**: Identify and avoid triggers. Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your eyes. 3. **For Lifestyle-Related Dryness**: Use a humidifier in your home and avoid using hot water on your face. Opt for lukewarm water instead. 4. **For Eczema**: Avoid known triggers and use moisturizers regularly. Your doctor may prescribe steroid creams or antibiotic ointments to control itching and infection. 5. **For Blepharitis**: Warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrubs can help. Your doctor may also recommend eyedrops or antibiotics for infection or inflammation. Making some lifestyle changes can also help soothe your eyelids. For example, using a humidifier, avoiding hot water, and keeping your hands clean can make a big difference.