13 Best Esthetician-Approved Eyelid Cleansers For Clean, Clear Lids (2024)
Get rid of your itchy eyelids by removing the debris from the inside of your eyes.
Diane Howard, RN, is a certified cosmetic nurse and the founder of Esthetic Finesse. She has received extensive training under esteemed physicians and nurses in the valley. After recognizing that esthetic medicine demands a creative mastery akin to that found in other art forms, Diane established Esthetic Finesse to showcase her exclusive brand of beauty services.
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Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
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Dry spots can mar your eyelids and may lead to issues like redness and irritation. To help you nip this issue in the bud and better your eyelid health, the best eyelid cleansers to clean your eyelids can be your best bet. You can get rid of itchy eyelids by following a few precautionary steps and proper care. Clinically-proven eyelid cleansers can help you get healthy, clean, and soft eyelids and protect your eyes against infections like conjunctivitis. They work gently on eyelids and can effectively remove the bacteria that cause redness. In addition, they remove the debris from the pores and curb the blepharitis symptoms.
You can find dermatologist-tested eyelid cleansers in the form of wipes, sprays, and creamy lotions. These expert-recommended products protect the thin skin around the eyes and give you clean, radiant-looking eyes. You should include scientifically-formulated eyelid cleansers in your eye-care regime as they help maintain youthful-looking eyes by keeping all infections at bay, including redness, dryness, and more. In this article, we have listed the 13 best eyelid cleansers to help you choose the one that suits to well. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig into it.
In This Article
What Does An Eyelid Cleanser Do?
Eyelid cleansers are little bottles of magic that help clean away dirt, dust, debris, and other contaminants that may cause dryness and inflamed eyelids. They are designed to gently cleanse and exfoliate the delicate eye area, remove dead skin cells, and help treat common skin conditions that cause itching and redness. The best eyelid cleansers clear bacteria load on eyelids and offer relief to dry and irritated eyes. They must also be gentle on your sensitive skin. Tested to be suitable for all skin types, they are a must-have for those looking to maintain good eye hygiene for clean, fresh-looking eyes.
13 Best Eyelid Cleansers For Clean, Clear Lids Worth a Try In 2024
1. Best Overall: Avenova Antimicrobial Lid & Lash Solution
Say goodbye to sore eyes with this gentle and effective eyelid care cleanser that kills a broad spectrum of bacteria, thereby providing instant relief against chronic eye conditions. Formulated with a 0.01% concentration of pure hypochlorous acid, this lid, and lash solution should be used twice daily to help treat blepharitis symptoms, dry eyes symptoms, contact lens irritation, and inflammation. Safe for all ages and made with clean, skin-loving ingredients, this product is available without a prescription and is your best friend when dealing with dry and itchy eyes and also for maintaining a healthy eyelid margin.
Pros
- Contains 100% pure hypochlorous acid
- Contains no bleach or impurities
- Lab-tested patented formula
- FDA-cleared
Cons
- Short shelf life
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 11,501 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best For Daily Use: Ocusoft Lid Scrub Original Eyelid Cleanser
Here’s a foaming eyelid cleanser that effectively removes oily secretion, debris, pollen, and other contaminants from the eyelids to provide gentle relief against common eyelid conditions and skin irritations around the delicate eye area. Easy to use, this pre-lathered foam can also be used as a daily face wash to remove makeup and other impurities from the skin, as noted by many reviewers. This formulation is non-irritating and calming and can also provide comfort against dryness caused by the frequent use of contact lenses. Give this formula a try, and both you and your eyes will thank us later!
Pros
- Mild, non-irritating formula
- Ideal for use in the shower
- Clinically-trusted
- Safe for daily use
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance of this product a bit strong.
"This foaming cleanser creates a rich lather that distributes evenly on my lids. The formula eliminates irritants and pollutants from my eyelids instantly. My eyes look clean and feel refreshed after I clean the lids with this formula. I like that it is free of any strong fragrance."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 7,208 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Organic: Heyedrate Lid & Lash Cleanser
Get your hands on this popular eyelid wash and reap the benefits of the wonder ingredients to calm dryness and irritation around your eyes. Made with 100% hypochlorous acid, this moisturizing formula is effective against crusty eyelashes, eyelids bumps, and blocked meibomian glands. What’s more, this alcohol-free Heyedrate eyelid cleanser is developed by ophthalmologists and recommended by eye care professionals to cleanse, restore, and nourish your beautiful eyes.
Pros
- Made with 100% organic and natural ingredients
- Contains 100% hypochlorous acid
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and preservatives
- 100% vegan
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this eyelid cleanser a bit thin.
"My eyes feel clean and look radiant, thanks to this eyelid and lash cleanser. It soothes the dry patches on my lids and calms itchiness. It also removes trapped dirt and makeup remnants from my lids and lashes. The formula also treats inflammation."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 5,593 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
| Avenova Antimicrobial Lid & Lash Solution Best Overall | Ocusoft Lid Scrub Original Eyelid Cleanser Best For Daily Use | Heyedrate Lid & Lash Cleanser Best Organic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.9 x 1.2 x 4.4 inches | 6 x 6 x 10 inches | 1 x 1 x 3 inches |
| Weight | 3.04 Ounces. | 8.8 Ounces | 1 Ounces |
| Skin Type | - | All, Sensitive | Dry |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 11,501 | 7,208 | 5,593 |
| Price | $29.99 | $21.61 | $21.97 |
4. Best Sustainable: We Love Eyes Tea Tree Eyelid & Eyelash Foaming Cleanser
Here’s a tea tree foaming eyelid cleanser that has been thoughtfully formulated to cleanse, soothe, and protect your precious eyes. Developed by a veteran optometrist, this little bottle of magic is free of nasty ingredients and gently and effectively washes away sources of inflammation such as bacteria, pollen, dust, makeup residue, and other debris. This calming, natural formula is infused with jojoba oil that helps balance oil production, as attested by reviewers. It helps moisturize the delicate skin around the eyes, and grapeseed oil acts as a lubricant and provides wound healing support. Go ahead and check out this YouTuber’s video for more details about the product.
Pros
- Made with sustainable and plant-based ingredients
- 100% natural and non-toxic formula
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and gluten
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this eyelid cleanser a bit sticky.
5. Best Rinse-Free: iVIZIA Micellar Eyelid Cleanser
The Similasan iVIZIA Micellar Eyelid Cleanser is one of the best solutions to cleanse your eyelids. This eyelid cleanser provides a gentle cleanse to your eyelids, maintaining their hygiene without causing irritation or discomfort. The micellar formula breaks and lifts the oil and makeup from your skin effortlessly. It is a non-sticky, rinse-free, and non-oily cleanser that can be used with a cotton pad or wipe. It is tested to be suitable for those with sensitive skin around the eyes.
Pros
- Gentle on skin
- BAK-preservative free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Multi-use bottle
Cons
- None
6. Best For Dry Eyes: OPTASE TTO Eyelid Cleansing Gel
The OPTASE TTO Eyelid Cleansing Gel provides instant comfort for tired and dry eyes. It also helps restore eye health by nourishing the skin around the eyes. According to many positive reviews, the formula helps remove oil and impurities from eyelashes and eyelids gently. It is infused with tea tree oil, pro-vitamin B5, and hyaluronic acid to soothe and relieve red and itchy eyes.
Pros
- Nourishes eyelids
- Gentle for everyday use
- No preservatives
- No parabens
- No alcohol
- Good for all skin types
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation at first
"What I like the most about this cleanser is that it moisturizes my lids while soothing them. The formula removes impurities from my lids and restores their natural shine. It also smoothes out my lids’ skin."
7. Best For Sensitive Skin: Thera Tears SteriLid Antimicrobial Eyelid Cleanser
Take your daily eyelid hygiene to the next level with this antimicrobial eyelid cleanser that is gentle, effective, and convenient. This soap-free antibacterial formula is hypoallergenic and pH-balanced and cleanses and conditions the delicate skin around your eyes. Infused with hypochlorous acid, this rinse-free cleanser is ophthalmologist recommended for the treatment of dry eyes, redness, bacterial infections, and other skin conditions.
Pros
- Soap-free, pH-balanced formula
- Ophthalmologist-recommended
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Suitable for use twice daily
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this eyelid spray a bit overpowering.
"This cleanser gently cleanses my eyelids and eyelashes. It soothes my dry lids and restores their natural balance. The dropper bottle allows for controlled application. The formula never irritates my skin or stings my eyes."
Pro Tip8. Best Cruelty-Free: Cliradex Light Advanced Foaming Cleanser
Get your hands on this foaming eyelid cleanser and experience the calm, therapeutic sensation of sustainably sourced tea tree oil and skin-loving natural ingredients. This gentle solution penetrates deep within the skin and cleanses it, killing bacteria and mites associated with rosacea, dry eyes, blepharitis, and other eye irritations. Skin feels smoother and calmer just after a few uses, as this product supports skin exfoliating without causing damage or dryness. Safe for sensitive skin, this product is an essential must-have step in your eye care routine.
Pros
- Natural and preservative-free
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and alcohol
- Contains no artificial colors or fragrances
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- This product might cause a slight tingling sensation when used.
9. Best Moisturizing Formula: Heyedrate Foaming Tea Tree Face Wash
Embrace clean skin and the refreshing aroma of peppermint and lavender essential oils with this all-natural eyelid cleanser that deep cleans to remove redness and blemishes without drying out your skin. Gentle and effective for all skin types, this eyelid cleanser is infused with aloe vera, olive oil, coconut oil, and 19 other plant extracts and botanicals that naturally kill bacteria and eyelash mites for healthier, softer skin. It also promotes moisture retention in the skin. This product can be used daily on both the eyelids and the face to remove oil, dirt, and makeup for an enviable, youthful glow.
Pros
- Made with 100% natural and organic ingredients
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes
- Contains no artificial fragrances
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the consistency of this eyelid cleanser a bit thin.
10. Best Affordable: Mererke Pretty Lash Shampoo
Here’s a 1-stop product that is ideal for providing some tender loving care to your delicate eyelashes. Use this oil-free natural formula as a lash cleanser, an eye makeup remover, and as an essential part of your lash extension aftercare to nourish your lashes, making them healthier and stronger gently. This soft and silky sulfate-free foam is gentle on the eyes and is hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice amongst those with sensitive skin and common eye conditions.
Pros
- Oil-free natural formula
- Free of parabens, ethylene oxide, and sulfates
- Fragrance-free
- Comes with a convenient cleansing brush
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the cleansing brush a bit thick.
11. Best With Non-Irritating Formula: Avenova Lid & Lash Solution With NovaWipes
Here’s the perfect duo of an effective lid cleanser with absorbable wipes to provide complete care for your eyelids and eyelashes. Soft and hypoallergenic, these anti-inflammatory wipes are professionally woven and don’t pull apart with use, making them ideal for use around the delicate eye area. Relieve symptoms of common eye conditions like dry eyes, blepharitis, and inflammation, by soaking these wipes with the hypochlorous acid-infused cleanser and wiping gently around the eyes twice daily.
Pros
- Made with 100% hypochlorous acid
- Contains no bleach or impurities
- Soft and hypoallergenic wipes
- Non-irritating, lab-tested formula
Cons
- Some might find the size of these wipes a bit large.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 11,501 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
12. Best Travel-Friendly: Systane Lid Wipes
Are you looking to keep up your daily eye hygiene regimen even while traveling? These pre-moistened eyelid cleansing pads are a great option for those who are always on the go and want to keep dry eyes, blepharitis, and crusty eyelashes at bay. Individually wrapped for convenience, these hypoallergenic eyelid wipes can support stubborn eye makeup removal and cleanse and exfoliate eyelids for clean, fresh-looking skin. Tested to be suitable for all skin types, these wipes can be used twice daily for healthy, moisturized eyelids.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic and soothing formula
- Easy to use and moisturizing
- Ideal for travel
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some might find the texture of these wipes a bit greasy.
"I like that these eyelid wipes come individually wrapped to maintain hygiene. They are soft to the touch. They remove dirt and irritants from my eyelids and leave them feeling fresh. They also soothe my lids."
13. Best Oil-Free: Chrissanthie Eyelid Cleanser With Tea Tree
Here’s a luxuriously soft all-in-1 eyelid cleanser designed by ophthalmologists to provide appropriate care to the delicate skin around the eyes. Infused with tea tree and citrus extracts, this cleanser has a refreshing scent and can be used to prevent and protect against eye irritation caused by allergies and environmental pollution. Tested to be suitable for use with eyelash extensions, this product is hypoallergenic and ideal for all skin types, providing nourishing care without leaving behind an oily residue.
Pros
- Infused with tea tree and citrus extracts
- No oily residue
- Tested to be suitable for sensitive skin
- Designed by ophthalmologists
Cons
- Some might find this product a bit hard to rinse out.
Now that we’ve had a look at our list of the 13 best eyelid cleansers in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking the right product for your eyes.
How To Choose An Eyelid Cleanser
-
Skin condition
A quick self analysis of your unique skin condition can help you pick the ideal clinically-tested eyelid cleanser for the delicate skin around your eyes. If you’re suffering from skin conditions like blepharitis, dry eyes, and crusty lashes, pick a dermatologist-recommended cleanser designed specifically to tackle these problems. If the skin on your eyelids tends to be oily, pick a non-comedogenic cleanser which provides gentle exfoliation without clogging up your pores. Those with lash extensions would benefit from a product designed to cleanse lashes thoroughly without damaging the extensions. Keep your eyelid health in mind while making the final decision.
-
Texture
Eyelid cleansers come in a variety of textures – foaming, creamy, oily, and in the form of pre-moistened wipes. Depending on your preference and skin type, pick one which suits your requirements and unique skin type. Foaming cleansers are great when doubling up an eyelid cleanser as a makeup remover, whereas eyelid wipes are perfect to carry along while traveling.
-
Ingredient list
A quick look at the ingredient list is an essential step when picking any self-care product. Pick an eyelid cleanser made with natural and organic ingredients that provide gentle cleansing while moisturizing and nourishing the delicate eye area. Steer clear of products which contain parabens, artificial fragrances, and sulfates, particularly if you have sensitive skin. Those prone to frequent skin allergies should pick a product that is clinically tested and labeled as hypoallergenic or allergen-free. This way you can also use them safely on the eyelid margin or the waterline.
How To Use An Eyelid Cleanser
Step 1 – Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the skin around your eyes.
Step 2 – Moisten a washcloth with warm water and place it on your eyelids to help loosen oil and remove the debris along your lash line.
Step 3 – Spray some cleanser either on to a pad or directly onto your eyelids and wipe gently back and forth along your eyelids and lashes.
Step 4 – Rinse with clear water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Infographic: Types Of Eyelid Cleansers
Eyelid cleansers are designed to maintain the hygiene and health of the delicate skin under the eyes. These cleansers remove excess oils, dirt, makeup residue, and impurities that accumulate on the eyelids. There are different types of eyelid cleansers available in the market. Check out the infographic below to learn more about them in detail.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Why use oversized sunglasses to hide red eyes when you can keep them clean and gorgeous with the best eyelid cleansers for a clear lid. The Avenova Antimicrobial Lid & Lash Solution offers quick relief for chronic eye conditions and is safe for all ages, while the Ocusoft Lid Scrub Original Eyelid Cleanser is gentle, soothing, and suitable for daily use. For a vegan and 100% organic option, the Heyedrate Lid & Lash Cleanser is the perfect choice. Add one of these products to your skincare routine and say goodbye to your blepharitis and dry eye woes. While these conditions can be tricky to deal with, ophthalmologist-approved eyelid cleansers can effectively reduce them. These formulas are hypoallergenic and infused with mostly natural ingredients that soothe the skin, keep your eyes fresh and beautiful, and enhance eyelid health. Most of these formulas are devoid of harmful chemical ingredients and come with applicators for convenient usage. They do not leave any oily residue and exfoliate the eyelids gently. However, steer clear of wipes that are sticky and feel rough on the skin.
Diane Howard, a certified cosmetic nurse, says, “Regularly cleaning the eyelids can help reduce the risk of eye infections and promote eye health. It’s important to choose an eyelid cleanser that is specifically formulated for the eyes and contains gentle ingredients to avoid irritation or dryness. Additionally, using an eyelid cleanser with anti-aging ingredients can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, leaving you with bright, healthy-looking eyes.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use cleanser on your eyelids?
Absolutely! But make sure to use a cleanser which is designed specially for the thin and delicate skin on your eyelids. It is best not to use a general face cleanser on your eyelids, as this might excessively dry out the sensitive skin on your eyelids.
How often should you use eyelid wipes?
Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, most eyelid wipes can be safely used upto twice daily, once in the morning, and once as part of your bedtime routine. It is best to always check the labelling on the package to make sure you are using the wipes for the correct purpose.
How do I unclog my eyelid pores?
Practicing regular eye hygiene by using appropriate eyelid cleansers and wipes can prevent excess oil production and clogging of the eyelid pores. In order to unclog pores, you can apply a warm compress on your eyes 2-3 times a day before using a gentle eyelid cleanser.
Should you wash your eyelids every day?
Yes. Clean your eyelids daily to address any eyelid issue and maintain healthy eye hygiene.
Is blepharitis caused by poor hygiene?
No. The most common cause of blepharitis are bacteria on your eyelids and at the base of your eyelashes and clogged or irritated eyelid glands. However, chronic cases of this condition may develop through poor hygiene, seasonal allergies, and ocular rosacea. Use a blepharitis cleanser to clean the eye area thoroughly and reduce the risk of blepharitis.
What vitamins should I take for posterior blepharitis?
Add omega-3-rich fats to your diet to mitigate the symptoms of blepharitis. However, for the best advice, consult your medical professional and get lasting relief.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a skin care enthusiast. She writes well-researched product reviews for StyleCraze. For this article, she has extensively researched a wide range of eyelid cleansers to narrow down on the products listed above. These products are also endorsed by a large number of users through their reviews. They are gentle and cleanse effectively without irritation the delicate skin on the eyelids.
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