Wash hands before touching eyelids
Warm compress on closed eyes for 5–10 minutes, 3–6 times daily
Gently clean eyelid margins with diluted baby shampoo or a commercial eyelid-cleanser wipe
Use a clean cotton swab/gauze to remove crusts along lash line
Avoid rubbing eyes and touching eyelids
Stop using eye makeup until symptoms resolve
Discard old eye makeup and replace contact lenses/eyewear products if used during flares
Avoid eye creams/irritating cosmetics on the eyelids
If prescribed, use topical antibiotic ointment/drops as directed (often at bedtime)
If seborrheic/oily scales are present, continue warm compresses plus lid scrubs daily until controlled
Consider artificial tears (preservative-free) 3–4 times daily for irritation
Manage underlying skin conditions (e.g., blepharitis-associated rosacea or dandruff) with appropriate treatment
Seek urgent care if severe pain, rapidly worsening redness/swelling, vision changes, light sensitivity, or inability to open the eye occurs
Seek same-week medical care if not improving after 48–72 hours of consistent lid hygiene or if symptoms recur quickly
Do not use leftover antibiotic drops/ointments from earlier episodes unless advised
Do not use steroid eye drops without an eye clinician’s direction