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(April 14, 2026) Red, itchy, or burning eyelids are not uncommon. Many people affected feel as if there is a foreign object in their eye. An expert explains why warm compresses can help, why chamomile can be problematic, and when it makes sense to seek medical advice. 

The eyes burn or itch, the eyelid margins are reddened, and there is often a sensation of having a foreign object “in the eye.” If these symptoms persist, chronic eyelid margin inflammation (blepharitis) may be present.

Eyelid inflammation often leads to dry eyes

The eyes burn or itch, the eyelid margins are reddened, and there is often a sensation of having a foreign object “in the eye.” If these symptoms persist, chronic eyelid margin inflammation (blepharitis) may be present.

“Eyelid inflammation often leads to dry eyes—and dry eyes, in turn, promote inflammation. Thus, the problem often exacerbates itself,” explains Prof. Dr. Thomas Reinhard, Medical Director of the Eye Center at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg.

Some people only notice redness along the eyelid margins. Others also experience pain, sticky eyes, or blurred vision. At this point, at the latest, the cause should be investigated by an ophthalmologist.

Why the eyelids become inflamed

The Meibomian glands at the edge of the eyelid play an important role. These small sebaceous glands in the eyelid margins produce an oily secretion that stabilizes the tear film and protects the eye from drying out.

If too little secretion is produced, or if the secretion is altered, the tear film evaporates more quickly. The eyes become dry, irritated, and more prone to inflammation.

Bacteria can also play a role. They colonize irritated eyelid margins more easily and can exacerbate the symptoms. If the secretion is too thick, the glands can become blocked. This can lead to the formation of a chalazion.

Whether Demodex mites also contribute to eyelid margin inflammation has not yet been conclusively determined. These tiny mites are found on the eyelashes of many people. “When we find the mites, we show them to patients under the microscope. This motivates many to take eye hygiene more seriously,” says Reinhard.

What those affected can do themselves

Consistent eyelid margin hygiene is often an important part of treatment. This includes:

• applying warm compresses or a gel mask for about ten minutes daily
• followed by a gentle massage of the eyelid margins
• removing any discharge with a clean cotton swab

Important: These measures require patience. Improvement often takes several weeks to become apparent.

When to seek medical advice

• Pain
• Deterioration of vision
• Symptoms persisting over a longer period

If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by pain and vision loss, you should visit an ophthalmologist. There, they can determine whether additional anti-inflammatory medications are necessary.

Caution with home remedies

Prof. Reinhard advises against self-treatment. “Self-administered antibiotic treatments often lead to resistance. And treating that is much more complicated,” he warns.

Home remedies such as chamomile, homemade saline solutions, or vinegar rinses are also not a good idea. They can further irritate the eye or even cause damage.