Eczema of the Eyes Pictures - 18 Photos & Images

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more fragile than the skin of other areas of the body, making this area particularly susceptible to irritating rashes like eczema. Also known as atopic dermatitis, true eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that begins in early childhood and affects approximately 1 to 3 percent of adults, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Eczema around the eyes can be challenging to treat because of the sensitive tissue in this area. With severe eczema around the eyes, eyelid swelling and involvement of the eye itself may affect your vision. Treatment focuses on keeping the involved area moist, reducing skin inflammation and avoiding exposure to irritants. Your doctor may recommend different treatment options based on the severity of your eczema.

Eczema characteristically causes a dry, itchy, scaly rash. Your doctor will likely recommend daily use of a moisturizer, or emollient, to reduce skin dryness by forming a barrier to prevent water loss, which helps alleviate itchiness. Moisturizers also soften the skin and reduce scaling. Regular use of a moisturizer reduces the likelihood of developing breaks in the skin, which can lead to a bacterial infection.