Diseases & Conditions
Ask the doctor: How should I remove eye makeup if I have blepharitis?
Q. In your article about blepharitis, you didn't say anything about the best way to remove eye makeup. Are oil-based products bad for this condition?
A. Oil-based removers are not recommended for people with blepharitis. This inflammatory condition of the eyelids can affect the Meibomian glands, which line the inner edge of the eyelid and secrete the oily part of the tear fluid that lubricates the eyeball and helps prevent tears from evaporating. Blepharitis may diminish or change these secretions, causing clogged glands and predisposing the eyelid to infection. Oil-based eye-makeup removers could worsen the problem by contributing to clogging.
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