Good eyelid hygiene is important for maintaining healthy eyes, yet it’s often something we overlook entirely until discomfort strikes.
Over time, the tiny glands along our eyelids can become clogged, leading to discomfort and irritation and increasing the risk of developing dry eyes. Proper eyelid hygiene is the key to preventing these concerns.
You can use a warm compress mask to gently liquefy and unclog oil buildup or debris inside the eyelid glands, promoting healthy oil secretion to keep your eyes lubricated.
With the right care and techniques, you can keep your eyelids clean, your glands functioning well, and your eyes feeling fantastic.
All About Meibomian Glands
Your eyelids aren’t just there to protect your eyes, they’re home to tiny meibomian glands that line the edges of your eyelids. These glands have one primary role: producing a special oily substance that prevents your tears from evaporating too quickly from the surface of the eye..
This oil mixes with natural tears to create a protective film over the eyes, keeping them hydrated, lubricated, and comfortable.
Without properly functioning meibomian glands, your tear film can’t do its job effectively. Dryness and irritation can result, and sometimes it can feel like there’s something in your eye.
Eyelid glands can become blocked due to the hardening of oil between the glands and the eye, which is known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), or when debris like makeup, dirt, or dead skin cells accumulates along the lash line.
Beyond persistent irritation and discomfort, clogged meibomian glands increase risk of developing eye conditions like dry eyes or conjunctivitis.
How to Unclog Eyelid Glands
The good news is that oily blockages can often be unclogged at home with a warm compress mask.
A warm compress mask is a soft cloth, gel pad, or pre-made mask that’s warmed and placed over your closed eyelids. The heat helps to:
- Soften and liquefy hardened oil within the meibomian glands.
- Gently release the trapped oil.
- Boost blood circulation around the eye area.
- Provide relief from dryness and irritation.
You can purchase ready-made warm compress masks, often microwavable, at a pharmacy or from your eye doctor. Alternatively, you can easily make one at home using a warm cloth, towel, or even tea bags.
How to Use a Microwavable Warm Compress Mask
Using a microwavable warm compress mask to unclog your meibomian glands is easy and can be done in a few simple steps:
- Follow the specific heating and usage guidelines on the mask’s packaging.
- Microwave for the recommended time, usually 10-15 seconds, and avoid overheating the mask.
- Test the temperature on the back of your hand; it should be warm, not hot. If necessary, let the mask cool for a moment.
- Close your eyes and place the mask gently over your eyelids. Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, massaging your eyelids with your fingers to help unblock your glands.
Making a Warm Compress Mask
If you don’t have a store-bought mask handy, a DIY solution works just as well. Here’s how you can create your own warm compress mask at home:
You’ll need a few items you’re likely to already have lying around:
- A clean washcloth or towel.
- Warm (not hot) water.
- A bowl.
Instead of a washcloth or towel, you can repeat these same steps using steeped tea bags over your eyes. Here’s what to do next:
- Fill a bowl with warm water. Make sure it’s not too hot to avoid burning your sensitive skin.
- Dip the clean cloth into the warm water until fully soaked, then wring it out lightly.
- Close your eyes, and gently place the warm washcloth over your eyelids.
- Relax and keep the compress on your eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. Gently massage the area with your fingers. If the cloth cools before you’re done, dip it into the warm water again and reapply.
For ideal results, try incorporating this process into your daily routine before bed. It’s an easy, soothing addition to your self-care routine!
The Importance of Eyelid Hygiene
Eyelid hygiene often gets overlooked in everyday beauty or skincare routines, but it’s necessary for maintaining good eye health.
Just like brushing your teeth prevents cavities, cleaning your eyelids keeps your meibomian glands functional and free from debris. It also:
- Prevents inflammation and irritation caused by built-up debris or grime.
- Reduces the risk of clogged glands, dry eyes, and infection, like blepharitis or styes.
- Prolongs the health of your tear film, offering lasting comfort, and clear vision.
Incorporating eyelid care into your daily routine is the easiest way to prevent issues like dry eyes, clogged oil glands, and irritation.
- Avoid touching your eyes: Bacteria and oils from your hands can easily transfer to your eyelids, increasing the risk of blockages or infection.
- Wash your eyelids daily: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser on a clean cotton pad or specialized eyelid wipes to clean the eyelid margins in gentle, circular motions.
- Remove makeup: Never sleep with makeup on. Leftover eye makeup can clog your glands and habours bacteria. Plus, it’s not good for your skin! Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover to thoroughly remove makeup before bed.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in flaxseeds and fish help promote healthy oil production. Staying hydrated helps maintain the overall health of your skin, supports tear production, and prevents dryness.
- Invest in eye-friendly habits: Use protective eyewear (sunglasses are okay) when exposed to dusty or windy conditions. Regularly clean your glasses, and follow proper contact lens wear and guidelines.
Healthy Eyelids Equals Healthy Eyes
Unclogging eyelid glands and maintaining proper eyelid hygiene might seem like small tasks, but they have a big impact on your overall eye comfort and health.
Connect with our Toronto Centre Eye Care team if you suspect clogged meibomian glands are responsible for any dryness and irritation.
