How hormonal fluctuations influence eyelid health and Meibomian gland function.

Since ancient times, Greek physicians — from Hippocrates to Galen — associated the balance of the body’s internal “humors” with the health of the skin and eyes.
Today, this timeless wisdom is reborn through Dermophthalmology, which shows that hormonal changes directly affect the function of the Meibomian glands and the likelihood of developing a chalazion.

Historical Background

The term “chalazion” (from the Greek “χάλαζα”, meaning “small lump or grain”) entered medical vocabulary in the 19th century, when Heinrich Meibom first described the sebaceous glands that produce the lipid layer of the tear film. By the early 20th century, ophthalmologists had already observed that women experienced more recurrent chalaziaduring hormonal transitions such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.

Hormones and the Meibomian Glands

The Meibomian glands are androgen-dependent, meaning their function is regulated by hormones such as testosterone and estrogen.
Androgens
• Increase lipid production and maintain meibum fluidity.
• Decreased levels (e.g., in menopause or after hormonal therapy) lead to thicker secretions and gland obstruction.
Estrogens
• Affect epithelial health and lipid balance.
• Their decline after age 40 is linked to dryness, inflammation, and chalazion formation.

Clinical Evidence

Recent ophthalmologic and endocrinologic studies (Harvard Eye Research Institute, Tokyo Women’s University, 2019–2023) confirm that: • Women aged 35–55 have twice the risk of developing chalazia compared to men of the same age. • Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) exhibits a clear hormonal profile, characterized by low DHEA and androgen levels. • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may improve tear film stability but must be individualized to avoid lipid overproduction.

The Holistic Perspective – From Puberty to Menopause

Dermophthalmology proposes a multidisciplinary framework that integrates:
•Ophthalmology – Meibomian gland function
•Dermatology – Sebaceous secretion and skin pH
•Endocrinology – Hormonal cycles and balance
•Nutrition Science – Omega-3s, lignans, and antioxidants

Supporting Hormonal Balance Naturally

  • Diet rich in omega-3s (flaxseed, walnuts, fish)
  • Phytoestrogens (lignans, soy, resveratrol)
  • Reduced caffeine and alcohol
  • Adequate sleep and physical activity

Dermophthalmologic Protocol
 1 Ophthalmogen EYE10 → Heat at 40 °C for 20 min (decongestion & lipid flow stimulation)
2 Ophthalmogen Gel → Gentle massage for 30 s to enhance microcirculation & local hormonal response
3 Ophthalmogen Spray with Tea Tree Oil → Microbial balance & restoration of skin barrier

Key Studies
 •Sullivan et al., Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci., 2017 – “Androgen regulation of Meibomian gland function.”
•Arita et al., Br. J. Ophthalmol., 2020 – “Changes in Meibomian gland morphology and hormone levels across menopause.”
•Eperjesi et al., Optometry & Vision Science, 2021 – “Impact of hormonal changes on ocular surface and tear film stability.”
•Papageorgiou et al., University of Athens, 2023 – “Hormonal fluctuations and blepharitis: a dermophthalmologic perspective.”

Conclusion
Hormonal balance is a cornerstone of ocular surface health.
From puberty to menopause, the eyelid mirrors the body’s internal endocrine rhythm.
Dermophthalmology views chalazion not as a local pathology, but as a signal of systemic harmony or imbalance.

Discover the full Ophthalmogen range at www.ophthalmogen.com and Dermophthalmology at www.Dermophthalmology.com

Give your eyes the care and beauty they deserve.

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