What is a Chalazion and Why Does it Appear in Children?
*Common condition in childhood
* Caused by poor hygiene of the eyelids and hands
A chalazion is a small, usually painless lump that appears on the eyelid due to blockage of the Meibomian Glands. Although it can occur at any age, children tend to have higher rates of occurrence compared to adults. This is mainly due to:poor eyelid hygiene, oily skin, frequent contact of dirty hands with the eyes.
Chalazion is one of the most common eyelid inflammations in children.
It accounts for up to 18-20% of pediatric visits for eyelids
Demodex and poor hygiene significantly increase the risk
Frequency – What Studies Show
- Chalazion is one of the most common inflammatory eyelid conditions in children.
- In pediatric populations, its prevalence can reach 18–20% of ophthalmology visits related to eyelid problems.
- Demodex mites are frequently detected in children with chalazia.
- Chronic dermatological conditions such as seborrheic or atopic dermatitis further increase the risk.
Risk Factors in Children
- Insufficient eyelid/lash hygiene
- Frequent eye rubbing with dirty hands
- Chronic blepharitis
- Atopic or seborrheic dermatitis
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Unbalanced diet
- Prolonged use of eye makeup (in older children/teenagers)
Symptoms
- Small, round lump on the eyelid
- Local swelling or redness
- Occasionally mild pain or discomfort
- Tearing or sensation of dryness
Treatment Approach
Pediatric chalazion management starts with non-invasive methods and eyelid hygiene.
- Warm compresses with Ophthalmogen Eye10 self-warming eye compresses once a day for 10–20 minutes (ideally 20’).
- Eelid massage with Ophthalmogen Gel to relieve blockage and reduce inflammation.
- Eyelid cleansing with Naviblef Daily Care foam to remove Demodex and bacteria.
- Hydration and protection of the ocular surface with artificial tears:
- Navitae Plus (hyaluronic acid + vitamin A), ideal for children.
- Visionlux Plus, Thealoz Duo, Systane, Refresh Tears, Tears Naturalle, Hylo-Comod, Artelac, Vidisic – widely used and trusted options.
- For younger children: Flora Vision Spray, a practical and gentle choice.
- Persistent cases: Meibomian Gland evacuation by an ophthalmologist.
Daily Cleansing: Wipes & Saline
Daily cleansing is essential in preventing and managing chalazion in children.
Eyelid wipes
- Helenvita BlephaCare Duo Wipes – hypoallergenic, with tear pH.
- Helenvita BlephaCare Pads – sterile pads for gentle cleansing.
- Thea Blephaclean Wipes – preservative-free, ideal for sensitive eyelids.
- Pharmasept Baby Care Purified Eye Wipes – designed for infants and children.
Sterile saline (single-dose ampoules)
- Clinofar
- Gifrer Physiologica
- Frezyderm Rinopure
Saline is excellent for rinsing and removing dust or particles, but it does not replace artificial tears, which provide hydration and therapeutic support.
Prevention
- Daily eyelid and facial cleansing with Ophthalmogen wipes or Naviblef foam.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes – instead, gentle massage with Ophthalmogen Gel.
- Diet rich in vitamin A (carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes).
- Preventive use of Ophthalmogen Spray & Eye10 in children with recurrent chalazia (once every 10 days).
Conclusion
- Chalazion in children is common but can be prevented and effectively treated with daily eyelid hygiene and early intervention.
The combined use of Ophthalmogen Eye10, Ophthalmogen Gel, Ophthalmogen Spray, Navitae Plus, together with cleansing products (Blephaclean, BlephaCare wipes) and saline (Clinofar, Gifrer, Rinopure), offers a complete prevention and treatment protocol trusted by experts.
All Ophthalmogen products are available at partner pharmacies and online: ofarmakopoiosmou.gr
Learn more about chalazion Chalazion – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
