Lid Hygiene

Good lid hygiene plays an important role in controlling the bacterial load on the lids and lid margins, and is an important component in the treatment of anterior blepharitis, posterior blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Good lid hygiene includes:

  • washing hands every time before you touch your eyes
  • washing eye glasses and sun glasses regularly
  • washing bedding at least once a week in very hot water and bleach, if possible
  • keeping the lids clean

There are many ways to clean lids. It is sometimes recommended to start with warm compresses to loosen any debris or scaling that may have accumulated, followed by gentle washing of the lids and lashes. If you use commercial lid scrubs, wipes, or cleansers, your doctor may instruct you to not to rinse after using them.