Crusty eyelids in the morning: Why they happen and what you can do

That gritty, sticky feeling in your eyelids when you first wake up — often called “sleep in your eyes”— is usually a minor nuisance. However, if it becomes frequent, is severe or is associated with other symptoms, it may signal an underlying issue. Understanding causes and proper care can help keep mornings more comfortable.

Most common causes of crusty eyelids

The most common culprit behind crusty eyelids is blepharitis — inflammation of the eyelid margins. Blepharitis causes a buildup of flakes, scales or waxy debris along the lash line and is often most noticeable in the morning, says Barbara K. Tylka, O.D., an optometrist specializing in dry eye and ocular surface disease. Dr. Tylka founded and leads the Dry Eye Clinic at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Blepharitis can affect the skin around the eyelashes, a condition called anterior blepharitis. It also can affect the oil-producing meibomian glands within the eyelids. This condition is known as posterior blepharitis, also called meibomian gland dysfunction. It is a major contributor to dry eyes too. That’s because the meibomian glands make the protective oil, called meibum, that your eyes need for a stable tear film. The film keeps your eyes from drying out. The inflammation from blepharitis affects the ability of the meibomian glands to make these oils. And then when these glands don’t produce the quality or quantity of oils your eyes need, the resulting issues with the tear film itself causes eyelid inflammation. So blepharitis and meibomian gland issues can work together to make dry eye symptoms worse.

As Dr. Tylka explains, “The problem is that when the glands produce lower quality oil, the protective oil layer of the tear film is compromised. This leads to quicker evaporation of the watery layer of tears and increases the risk of dryness and discomfort.”

Sometimes, crusty eyelids are caused by a particular type of blepharitis called demodex blepharitis. Demodex blepharitis is caused by microscopic mites at the base of your lashes. These mites commonly live on your skin but can cause symptoms when there are too many of them. Demodex blepharitis is often identified by cylindrical dandruff called collarettes, at the base of the eyelashes.

At-home remedies for crusty eyelids

Just like the rest of your body, your eyelids benefit from daily hygiene. Using warm compresses — a heat mask or even just a warm washcloth — can help soften crusts and blockages around the oil glands. Gentle nonprescription cleansers are great for removing bacteria, mites and debris near the eyelid margins. Look for wipes, foams or sprays with simple ingredient lists.

Above all, consistency is what matters most. Dr. Tylka likes to say that “conservative eyelid hygiene should be like brushing your teeth: consistent and regular.” Sticking with a routine helps reduce inflammation, keeps the oil glands flowing and stabilizes the tear film, making dry eye symptoms much more manageable.

When to see a doctor for crusty eyelids

If crustiness comes with redness, vision changes, excessive discharge or discomfort that interferes with daily life, it’s time to talk with your eye care professional. Sometimes these symptoms could mean:

• An infection such as bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye.

• Allergies.

• Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea.

• Autoimmune conditions such as Sjogren syndrome.

Your eye care professional also may look for things that could be contributing to crusty eyelids, such as medications, environmental factors or other underlying conditions.

Other treatments for crusty eyelids

Treatment for crusty eyes that aren’t relieved by hygiene alone depend on the specific cause. Options may include topical or oral antibiotics for infections or systemic therapies to control underlying diseases. In these situations, it’s important to work closely with your care team, which may include an optometrist or ophthalmologist, a dermatologist, a rheumatologist, or other specialists, Dr. Tylka says.

Because dryness can make crustiness worse, Dr. Tylka says it’s important to reduce the risk of dry eye. Try these tips:

• Take regular breaks from looking at screens.

• Minimize direct airflow — for example, from fans or vents — on your eyes.

• Use protective eyewear when it’s windy.

• Try preservative-free artificial tears. People with chronic dry eye may need prescription eye drops.

• Consider taking an omega-3 supplement. Dr. Tylka emphasizes that you should work with your care team to determine the right dose and formulation, especially if you have multiple health issues.

Crusty eyelids are common, but eyelid hygiene and attention to contributing factors allow most people to manage their symptoms. If symptoms last or get worse, or if you have any vision changes, see your eye care professional right away.