Atopic eczema in adolescents and adults is often manifested locally on the eyelids. Seasonal variations in symptoms and additional symptoms and findings in the rest of the skin confirm the diagnosis. Use of cosmetics tends to add the irritation. Occasionally, an underlying contact allergy may also be found. Appropriate treatment consists of steroid-containing eye ointments or hydrocortisone for a couple of days at a time. The more recent calcineurin inhibitor creams (tacrolimus and pimecrolimus) provide a good option in this sensitive skin area.