Dry skin around the eyes: causes, symptoms & how to treat it

Struggling with dry skin around your eyes? You’re not alone – especially if you have sensitive skin. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than on other parts of the body, which makes it more prone to dryness.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms and treatment of dry skin around the eyes. With the right knowledge, you can care for the delicate eye area more effectively.

What is dry skin around the eyes?
Causes of dry skin around the eyes
Symptoms of dry skin around the eyes
How to treat dry skin around the eyes
Preventative measures
Conclusions
FAQ: Dry skin around the eyes

What is dry skin around the eyes?

Dry skin around the eyes occurs when the skin’s natural barrier becomes compromised, leading to a loss of moisture. The skin in this area is especially delicate, thinner and more sensitive which makes it more prone to dryness, irritation and flakiness.

It can be triggered by anything from weather changes and harsh skincare products to underlying skin conditions like eczema. While it’s usually harmless, dry skin under the eyes can feel uncomfortable and may require gentle, targeted care to restore balance and comfort.

Causes of dry skin around eyes

Dry skin around the eyes typically occurs when the skin barrier is damaged and not sufficiently hydrated, or as a symptom of an underlying skin condition. Both adults and children can experience dry skin on the face, and the area around the eyes is particularly sensitive. Here are some of the most common causes:

Environmental factors

Exposure to wind, cold weather and dry air.
Use of air conditioning or central heating.
Dry, flaky skin around the eyes can also be triggered by excessive sun exposure.

Daily habits

Washing your face too often or with water that’s too hot.
A lack of certain vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, iron and zinc.

Age and genetics

As we age, particularly after 40, our skin loses its ability to retain moisture.
Your genes can also make you more susceptible to dryness around the eyes.

Skin conditions

Eczema: One of the most common is atopic eczemathat causes dry, itchy skin, often affecting the face and eye area. It can be triggered by irritants, allergens or stress.
Contact Dermatitis: A reaction caused by allergens or irritants. The skin around your eyes can feel dry and have a burning sensation. In some cases you may also have a skin rash.

Other medical conditions

Blepharitis: An inflammation that can cause itchy and dry skin around the eyes and eyelids.

Symptoms of dry skin around the eyes

Dry skin isn’t usually serious, but it can be uncomfortable. Common symptoms around the eyes include:

Tight-feeling skin
Redness
Flakiness
Itchiness
Peeling
Cracked skin

If you have a dry patch under your eye that won’t go away, it may point to an underlying condition. For persistent symptoms, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional (source).

How to treat dry skin around the eyes

There are several at-home treatments you can try to soothe dry skin under your eyes. Most people find they can manage the condition effectively with the right care.

Gentle skincare routine

Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser on your face and around the eyes. E45 Face Foaming Cleanser is dermatologically tested and cleanses without stripping the skin or disrupting its natural moisture barrier.

Hydrate morning and night

Keep the skin hydrated day and night with a moisturiser suitable for dry and sensitive skin. E45 Face Care Hydrating Moisturiser is a great option, even for eczema-prone skin. At night, try E45 Face Night Cream – a nourishing face cream that supports overnight recovery and is also suitable for eczema-prone skin. It helps repair and strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier.

Treating dry skin around children’s eyes

If your child is experiencing dry skin under the eyes, it can usually be managed with gentle, repairing products. E45 CICA Soothe & Repair Cream is clinically proven and suitable for newborns, children and adults. Made with 90% natural ingredients, it helps restore the skin’s moisture barrier.

Sun protection

Sunburn can cause red, dry skin around your eyes, which may feel irritated. Use a moisturising, effective sunscreen on your face such as E45 Sun Care Sensitive Face Cream SPF 50+. This sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and provides high UVA and UVB protection.

E45 Sun Care Sensitive Face Cream SPF 50+

£12.99

E45 Face Night Cream

£14.99

E45 CICA Soothe & Repair Cream

E45 Face Foaming Cleanser

£7.99

E45 Face Care Hydrating Moisturiser

£9.99

Preventative measures

In addition to daily moisturising, there are several lifestyle habits that can help prevent dry skin around the eyes. These include:

Drink plenty of water
Limit alcohol, caffeine, sugar and salt
Use a humidifier if indoor air is dry
Protect your skin in extreme weather conditions
Use only fragrance-free products
Avoid washing your face with hot water
Limit excessive and unprotected sun exposure

Conclusion

Dry skin around the eyes may be a common issue, but with the right care and preventative habits, it doesn’t have to disrupt your daily life. From gentle cleansing to deeply hydrating moisturisers, the key lies in using products designed for sensitive skin – and in making small, consistent changes to your routine. Whether you’re caring for your own or your baby’s dry skin, E45 offers trusted solutions to help soothe, protect and restore the delicate eye area.

By understanding the causes and taking early action, you can keep your skin feeling comfortable, calm, and cared for – day in and day out.

FAQ: Dry skin around the eyes

Why is the skin around my eyes dry?

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate, making it more prone to dryness. It can be caused by cold weather, allergies, skincare products, or conditions like eczema or blepharitis.

What to put on dry skin around eyes?

It can be helpful to use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser or emollient designed for sensitive skin. Look for products that hydrate without irritating the area.

How to heal dry skin around eyes?

Keeping the area moisturised, avoiding harsh products, and protecting your skin from cold or dry air can support healing. If the dryness doesn’t improve, a healthcare professional can help identify the cause.

How to get rid of dry skin around eyes?

A simple skincare routine using gentle cleansers and moisturisers, staying hydrated and avoiding irritants may help. In some cases, medical treatment might be needed.

What vitamin deficiency causes dry skin around the eyes?

Low levels of vitamin A, vitamin D, or some B vitamins may contribute to dry skin. If you’re concerned, it’s best to check with your GP before starting supplements.