Medically Reviewed by Shruthi N, MD on July 07, 2024
Written by WebMD Editorial ContributorsBlepharitis (blef-uh-RYE-tis) is inflammation of the eyelids, usually affecting both eyes at the same time. You don’t have to worry about it being contagious though – it’s not. Blepharitis is a common condition, affecting about 15%-25% of people. Overall, it affects both men and women, but one type, staphylococcal blepharitis, affects many more women than men.
Despite being common, blepharitis is often not treated correctly because there are many issues that could cause the same symptoms.
When the outside front edge of your eyelid (where your eyelashes are) is inflamed, this is called anterior blepharitis. When it’s the inner edge of your eyelid, the part that touches your eyeball, this is posterior blepharitis. It’s possible to have both at the same time.
These types of blepharitis can be:
If you have blepharitis, it’s likely on both eyelids. Common symptoms are:
You could also have more severe symptoms such as:
Blepharitis causes usually depend on the type you have — anterior blepharitis or posterior blepharitis.
One type of anterior blepharitis, staphylococcal blepharitis, is caused by bacteria. The bacteria are naturally on the skin of your face and eyelids. Sometimes, there are too many though, and this can cause blepharitis. Seborrheic blepharitis is caused by dandruff . Other less common causes of anterior blepharitis include:
The most common cause of posterior blepharitis is blocked oil glands, but it can also be caused by:
Anyone can get blepharitis but some people have a higher risk of getting it or getting it more often. These include people who:
Is blepharitis contagious?
Blepharitis may look like it can be contagious, but it’s not.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms. They might also:
There’s no cure for blepharitis. But you might be able to manage and treat it by taking care of your eyelids.
Warm compresses can help soften crusts and loosen oily debris. Follow these steps:
Keeping your eyelids clean may also ease symptoms:
You could also do this in the shower, by allowing the warm water to wash over your face for about a minute. Then, wipe some baby shampoo over your lids and lashes using a clean, wet washcloth, and wash it away with the shower water.
There are some over-the-counter (OTC) eyelid washes or lid scrubs that might help ease the symptoms. If your eyes are dry, you may want to try some OTC artificial tear drops.
If possible, stop wearing contact lenses and using eye makeup while you have blepharitis to reduce irritation. If you continue to wear makeup, be sure to thoroughly remove it every night and clean your lids with a baby shampoo and water cleanse.
Your doctor will have to determine what type of blepharitis you have and its cause. Your doctor might recommend:
Your doctor might also recommend a nutritional supplement, such as omega-3 because it might reduce inflammation (swelling).
Sometimes, blepharitis can be severe. In such cases, you may need more advanced treatments, such as:
Regardless of the type of blepharitis you may have, it may come back repeatedly, which is why self-care and eye hygiene are important. To lessen the risk of it coming back, it’s also important to take care of anything that puts you at risk for it. For example, if you have allergies, speak with your doctor about the best ways to keep them under control.
The inflammation of blepharitis can lead to complications, such as:
A few lifestyle changes might help keep blepharitis away.
Blepharitis can be annoying and distressing because of how it can make your eyes feel, but it’s not contagious and it’s not usually serious. While there’s no cure for blepharitis, you can often ease its symptoms and avoid it with good eyelid hygiene. This includes practices such as removing eye makeup properly every night and washing your eyelids with a gentle baby shampoo and water mix. If your symptoms don’t go away or they become more serious, see your doctor because you may need medication.
How long does blepharitis last?
Acute blepharitis, caused by an infection, for example, may go away once you’ve taken care of the cause. Blepharitis that is chronic has no cure. The symptoms come and go, but you might help shorten the time with good eyelid hygiene and seeing your doctor if the symptoms don’t go away.
Does blepharitis go away on its own?
The symptoms may improve, but blepharitis doesn’t completely go away on its own because it's a chronic condition.
Is there a cure for blepharitis?
No, there is no cure for blepharitis.
What is the main cause of blepharitis?
The most common cause of blepharitis is bacteria.
What is the best treatment for blepharitis?
The best way to treat or manage blepharitis that is not severe is with good eyelid hygiene (using a mild baby shampoo and water mix to gently clean your eyelids). Also, it is important to avoid eye makeup during a flare-up.
