Can You Cure Blepharitis? Here's What to Know
Updated: March 07, 2025
4 mins
The eyes can get clogged just as easily as the sinuses. Blepharitis is an eye condition caused by a build-up of bacteria underneath the eyelids. Those with blepharitis may first notice it from flaking at the base of the eyelids or on the eyelashes.
While it may look contagious, blepharitis is a condition that cannot be passed on from person to person. For people with blepharitis, symptoms may occur out of nowhere. Fortunately, there are treatment options for blepharitis.
What are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
Blepharitis leads to visual symptoms that indicate a bacterial infection. Irritation from blepharitis can manifest in different ways. It’s important to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes while dealing with symptoms.
If diagnosed with blepharitis, you may experience the following symptoms from inflammation in the eyelids:
Watery eyes
Itchiness
Light sensitivity
Dry eyes
Crusty eyelids
Eye redness
Serious symptoms like blurry vision and swelling near other parts of the eye require emergency attention. Don’t hesitate to let a healthcare provider know if you experience any symptoms.
What are the Different Types of Blepharitis?
Anterior and posterior blepharitis are the two main types of blepharitis. The main difference between the two types is the part of the eye they affect.
Anterior blepharitis: This type of blepharitis causes symptoms on the eyelid near the base of the eyelash. Bacteria and dandruff from the scalp and eyebrows falling near the eyes are the main causes of anterior blepharitis.
Posterior blepharitis: It occurs when the eyelids overproduce oil. Posterior blepharitis affects the part of the eye closer to the inner eye and eyeball. Those with rosacea and other skin conditions may develop this kind of blepharitis.
Other types of blepharitis may show up depending on the symptoms you experience:
Seborrheic blepharitis: A person may experience greasiness and scales at the base of the eyelashes and redness on the eyelids.
Staphylococcal blepharitis: This type of blepharitis may make the eyelids feel sticky. You may also lose some eyelashes.
Ulcerative blepharitis: Crusts form around the eyelashes, and symptoms can lead to inflammation in the eyelid. Those with this type of blepharitis may experience bleeding when scratching the crust on the eyelids.
Meibomian blepharitis: The eyes may not produce tears well. Those with meibomian blepharitis may experience redness and a blockage of the oil glands in the eyelids.
Demodex blepharitis: This type of blepharitis occurs when Demodex mites grow uncontrollably on the eyelids. Demodex mites live naturally on the body and in the hair follicles to feed on dead skin and oil glands.
How is Blepharitis Diagnosed?
Blepharitis is typically diagnosed by an eye doctor (optometrist). During a routine eye exam, they may immediately notice symptoms of blepharitis.
If you see a healthcare provider for your symptoms, they may first ask you about any other health problems that may cause symptoms. Next, they will look closer near the base of your eyelashes and the bottom of the eyelids for symptoms.
Who is Most at Risk for Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is not contagious, but it can occur more often in those who experience dandruff or have oily skin. Skin conditions like rosacea may increase your risk for blepharitis. Health experts have also found that hormonal changes may contribute to an increased risk of blepharitis.
The following conditions may also increase your risk of blepharitis:
Cornea damage
Dry eye
Stye
Chalazion
How Do You Treat Blepharitis?
While there’s no cure for blepharitis, there are ways to treat it. A healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics to reduce symptoms. Antibiotic ointment is often placed on the eyelids before bedtime.
Ointments can help to get rid of crusting at the base of the eyelashes. Other treatment options may include eye drops or placing a warm, clean washcloth over the eyes for a few minutes a day.
How Do You Prevent Blepharitis?
Some people may be more prone to blepharitis than others. However, there are small habits you can develop to prevent blepharitis. It’s normal to have some bacteria on the eyelids. To prevent an overproduction of bacteria, try to keep the eyes and face as clean as possible.
If you exercise regularly, consider carrying a clean towel to wipe your face with afterward. Keeping hair off of the forehead and out of the eyes can help prevent a build-up of oil and bacteria. Some studies have found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids in fish and other food sources may help reduce dry eyes and blepharitis symptoms on the eyelids.
Where Can I Learn More About Eye Health?
Blepharitis is inflammation that can be treated by a licensed healthcare provider to reduce symptoms. At LifeMD, you can speak with a licensed healthcare provider about how to best take care of the skin on your face and eyes.
Get started today with learning more about keeping blepharitis symptoms at bay.
LifeMD makes it easy to stay on top of your health because talking to a doctor, filling your prescriptions, getting your labs done—and more—are all easy and cost-effective. Come discover a healthcare solution built around you and your life.
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