There are many causes of blepharitis, and your treatment will depend on the specifics of your condition. Your eyelid can become inflamed and irritated due to:
A localized bacterial infection at the base of the lashes.
This can be treated with topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents. In some cases, acne medications contribute to bacterial overgrowth, so you may need to curtail or discontinue use of these products.
Skin conditions such as Rosacea and Seborrheic Dermatitis.
These can be treated topically, with oral medications, or with specialized light therapy.
Lice or mites in the eyelashes.
These can be treated with treatments such as lid washes with diluted tea tree oil.
Abnormal function of the oil-producing glands in the lid margin.
This can be treated with improved lid hygiene, changes in diet, eye drops and ointments, and occasionally with oral treatments as well.
Allergic reaction to facial and beauty products.
This can be treated with topical agents and only rarely requires oral treatment.
In general, the best defense against blepharitis is maintaining good ocular hygiene, which prevents bacterial overgrowth. We typically recommend using warm compresses, gentle cleansers, and light massage to the lash line.