How to Clean Eyelashes With Baby Shampoo

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that often occurs in people suffering from dandruff, oily skin or dry eyes. This non-contagious condition causes redness and irritation on the lids, as well as the formation of dandruff-like scales on the eyelashes. According to the American Optometric Association, proper hygiene, including cleaning eyelids and lashes daily with baby shampoo, can help remove these scales and lessen the symptoms associated with blepharitis.

Step 1

Wash your hands before moistening a hand towel or washcloth with hot water. Place the cloth over the affected eye for five minutes. The warm water helps loosen any scale or debris built up on the eyelids and eyelashes.

Step 2

Create a mixture of 6 tablespoons warm water and two to three drops baby shampoo. Stir the water with a cotton swab to incorporate the baby shampoo.

Step 3

Dampen a cotton ball with the soapy water and gently hold down your lower eyelid. Carefully wash the lower eyelid with the cotton ball for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat on the second eye.

Step 4

Dampen a second cotton ball with the soapy water and wash your upper eyelid to remove any scale or crust from your eyelashes. The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center recommends lightly closing your eyes instead of squeezing them shut.

Step 5

Moisten a cotton swab with soapy water and work it over the eyelashes and upper eyelid base to remove any loosened or remaining scale and debris. Repeat on the other eye. Once finished, discard all the cotton balls, swabs and soapy water.

Step 6

Rinse your eyes with lukewarm water and pat them dry with a clean cloth. Apply any antibiotic ointment or medication prescribed by an ophthalmologist per his instructions.

Things You'll Need

Washcloth or hand towel

Baby shampoo

Cotton balls

Cotton swabs

Tip

Clean both eyes once daily or more often if recommended by your physician.

REFERENCES & RESOURCES American Optometric Association: Blepharitis Vision One Source: How to Clean Your Eyelids University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center: Blepharitis