Once you’ve done the compress AND the lid massage, the final step is to clean your lids. So while you can start doing a warm compress today with some things you have around the house, you may need to consider getting a mask to make the process more efficient and comfortable – especially if your case of dry eye is particularly bothersome. You can find a Bruder Mask at some pharmacies or . Eye care professionals recommend moist heat therapy as a form of supplementary treatment for people suffering from dry eyes and other conditions of the. We prefer the Bruder Mask because it has straps that keep the mask on so I can stay upright rather than lying down. If the compress feels too hot, remove immediately and wait 1-2 minutes before reapplying. Created specifically for dry eye treatment, the Bruder Mask gives about 10 minutes of sustained heat, critical for appropriate liquefaction of the oil in your glands. Always touch test before placing over the eyes. The most popular choice for warm compress is the Bruder Mask. Furthermore, while functional, this method isn’t great for long-term use. Now, you could use more rice and make one large enough to cover both eyes, but you will lose contact over the bridge of your nose. The obvious drawback is it’s for one eye only. The massage process is the same regardless of which compress method you choose. It’s from 1:25-1:51 (video should be queued up to the massage section ).
The video below gives a great demonstration on how to do this. At this point, gently massage your upper and lower lids. The washcloth will only retain its heat for 2-3 minutes. Lean back and let the washcloth warm up your glands. If warm, close your eyes and gently lay the washcloth over your lids. If you can’t hold it in your hand for more than a few seconds, it’s too hot and shouldn’t be placed on your face for risk of burn. Place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Grab a clean washcloth, run it under the sink, then ring it out so it’s damp, but not dripping wet. The heat liquifies the clogged oil in the glands and the massage helps gently express the liquified oil. There are many ways to do this, but the process is pretty uniform use something to heat the lids, gently massage your lids after heating, then clean the lid surface. Apply for 10 minutes on closed eyes, or as prescribed by your eye doctor. Note the debris building up around the lashes.Ī first-line treatment for this condition is to perform a warm compress at least twice daily. Furthermore, warm compresses can help loosen clogged oil in the glands of your eyelids, which allow these essential oils to mix with your tears, producing better. Lids with unhealthy, “capped” glands and poor function. Warmth may relieve pain, relax muscle spasms, increase circulation, and help heal a wound or other problems that affect the eye. The moisture of the compress hydrates the eyes, which helps to reduce the grittiness, and the warmth relaxes the eye to relieve any pain or muscle spasms that may accompany dry eye.