Dr Mazin Al-Khafaji warned that nail polish and earrings can cause a certain type of skin condition that can lead to painful complications if not cared for appropriately
A dermatologist has revealed that earrings and nail polish could be causing a painful skin condition for thousands of people.
According to Google trends, searches for ‘eczema on eyelids’ has increased by 5,000 percent. More commonly known as eyelid dermatitis, it can be a very uncomfortable condition, leading to eyelid itching and painful red patches.
The standard treatments are emollients, mild topical steroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors that can be prescribed by a doctor. But what causes this skin condition?
Dermatologist and founder of eczema-skincare brand Dermatology M, Dr Mazin Al-Khafaji, warns that earrings could trigger this kind of eczema. He says: “Earrings and certain metals can trigger eczema, particularly allergic contact dermatitis, which is a common form of eczema caused by an immune system reaction to specific substances.
“Nickel is a common metal allergen found in many earrings, especially inexpensive jewellery. Cobalt and chromium (sometimes used in alloys with nickel) can also cause allergic reactions.
“Even gold jewellery can trigger reactions if it contains nickel or other mixed metals. Some people react to oxidation, coatings, or plating on metal earrings.”
And it’s not just earrings that can cause eczema on the eyelids, with nail polish also a top culprit. “This can trigger eczema for several reasons,” Dr Al-Khafaji.
“Mainly due to chemical allergens, irritants, and skin barrier disruption.” Allergic contact dermatitis is one of the most common reasons for this, something that is quite common among Brits.
“Removing the trigger (earrings, nail polish, or acrylics) can help stop the reaction from worsening, but it usually isn’t enough on its own—especially if the skin is already inflamed. Topical skincare is still needed to heal the skin and restore the barrier.”
Here’s how you can avoid eyelid eczema –
-
Avoid harsh makeup (especially avoid waterproof mascaras, eyeliners, and eye shadows, as they contain strong preservatives and removers that can irritate eczema).
-
Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol-based sanitizers, or other potential allergens.
-
Avoid rubbing or scratching the area.
-
Avoid contact lenses.
-
Don’t Expose Eyelids to Allergens or Irritants
-
Avoid nickel in metal eyelash curlers, rings, or jewellery as these can trigger eczema.
-
Avoid nail polish/acrylic nails can transfer allergens to the eyelids via touch.
-
Avoid hair dyes (especially black or dark shades) as they can cause cross-reactions if you have a PPD (para-phenylenediamine) allergy.
-
Avoid eye-masks and face masks.
-
Avoid even mild steroid creams or ointments.
-
Avoid over washing area or using hot water – lukewarm water is best.
-
Avoid mineral oil or creams with fragrances from essential oils, but do moisturise regularly
