Eyelid Hygiene

What is Eyelid Hygiene?

Maintaining long term, regular eyelid hygiene is essential for managing blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction. Cleansing helps to remove debris from the lid margin, thereby reducing inflammation.

For patients with moderate to severe blepharitis, we offer specialist treatments designed to alleviate symptoms and make the condition more manageable at home.

To make an appointment simply call us on 020 7713 7713 or send an email to: info@zackseyes.co.uk

In House Specialist Treatments

For patients with moderate to severe blepharitis we can perform specialist treatments to alleviate the symptoms and make the condition more manageable.

ZEST^® Blepharitis Treatment
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Technology) is an Okra-based cleansing system which provides quick and effective blepharitis treatment offering immediate and long-lasting relief. ZEST gel and foam applicators are used to bind and lift debris from the eyelid margin, removing the biofilm which causes inflammation, redness and dry, flaky skin.

ACTIVIA HEAT MASK
The Activa Eye-mask heats and massages the eye lids for 15 minutes to unclog and express the meibomian glands. The process has been shown to improve the tear film and improve the efficacy of IRPL and ZEST treatments.

Long Term Self-Management

Long term regular lid hygiene is crucial in managing blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction. A daily regime of warm compresses, followed by massage and cleansing is usually recommended once or twice a day depending on severity

Warm compresses
A warm compress loosens debris on the eye lids and melts the oils blocking the glands, making them easier to express and clean.

A daily warm compress will help with meibomian gland dysfunction. For best results, a consistent heat is required using a microwaveable eye mask. The compress should be heated to 40-45 degrees Celsius (110 degrees Fahrenheit) and worn for 5 minutes against closed eyes.

At Zacks London Eye Clinic we stock a variety of eye masks which, when heated in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, hold the heat for several minutes. Alternatively, if you don’t have a microwave, you can purchase re-chargeable USB heat masks or low-level light devices which use LED lights to warm the glands with similar effects.

Massage
Following heat treatment, massaging the eye lids helps to improve meibomian gland function.

Gently rotate a clean finger down the top lid and up the bottom lid, expressing oil from the meibomian glands along the length of each lid for 20 seconds.

Cleansing
Lid cleansing removes debris from the lid margin to reduce inflammation.

Gently clean along the lid margin and remove any debris stuck to the eye lashes and openings of the meibomian glands. Lid wipes are often textured with a roughened surface for increased efficacy and can be impregnated with antimicrobial solutions that are effective at killing bacteria and mites that cause infestation on the lid margin.

Types of Lid Cleansers for Blepharitis:

Preservative-Free Lid Wipes: These wipes are gentle on the eyes and free from preservatives that can cause irritation. They are often used for daily cleaning of the eyelid margins.
Antibacterial Lid Wipes: These wipes contain antibacterial agents to help reduce bacterial load on the eyelids, which can be beneficial for treating blepharitis.
Teatree Wipes: These wipes contain tea tree oil which is natural antiseptic that is very effective against demodex mites. It can however irritate the ocular surface so is not recommended for everyone.
Foaming Lid Cleansers: These cleansers come in a foam form and are applied to the eyelids to break down oils and remove debris. They are easy to use and can be more comfortable for some patients.

I am so pleased with the results. There is no grit in my eyes, no irritation, no soreness.

Janet Cornbloom