I have bright red rings around my eyes. HELP! (Photo)

Question

Within the last 4 years i have had bright red rings around the outside of my eye lids and around the bottom of my eyes and it's getting worse. I have tried all sorts of creams and drops and all sort of natural remedies such as cucumber and milk. Nothing helps. I look constantly tired and my eyes burn, but i am getting enough sleep. Is this a dietary problem? Ive turned to using ladies concealer to try and reduce the redness but nothing works. My eyes are very sensitive. See picture below.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is often seen after surgery because of blood vessel change or iron/blood depost into the skin.  I have seen it many times genetically.  Creams do not help.  Vascular lasers can improve, I like fillres around and under this to camoflage it partically.  But essentially this is genetic with no cure only potential for improvement.  Tinted sunscreens help.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The redness most likely represents inflammation along the edge of the eyelid.  This is occasionally seen following eyelid surgery.  It is also associated with dry eye and a condition called meibomitis or meibomian gland dysfunction.  If you have had prior eyelid surgery you may have a combination of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction.  It these cases treatment for both conditions is helpful.  See a general ophthalmologist or an oculoplastic surgeon for help for this.  You need reconstructive surgery to address your inferior scleral show if the redness does not respond to medical treatments.  My down load has information on this type of surgery.

Jeffrey M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Dilated blood vessels in the very skin eyelid skin can cause this problem. Given your sensitivity, you likely have inflammation in the area- called blepharitis. There are many causes of blepharitis, and many treatments for each cause. Treating the inflammation with topical medications, Omega 3 supplements, and lid care; in addition to treating the dilated vessels with an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment has been helpful for my patients. The goal is to make the eyes feel better as well as look better.

M. David Cogburn, MD, FAAD · Answer

Good Morning .. I looked at your photo and you definitely have inflammation involving your upper and lower lids.It appears to me to be an irritant dermatitis and there are many good treatments for the lids. Unfortunately , I think you need to see a Dermatologist or Opthalmologist for the medications. Based upon your photo, a topical steroid and possibly an antibiotic like Dixycycline would quickly remedy your problem. Your eyes are a great feature on your face. Good Lucj !

I have bright red rings around my eyes. HELP! (Photo)

Answers (4)