Cholesterol Bumps On Eyelids: Causes And What To Do
Key Takeaways
Cholesterol bumps on the eyelids are soft, yellowish patches of fat under the skin, known medically as xanthelasma. They’re common, harmless in themselves, and can be treated if they bother you.
- They usually start at the inner corners of the upper eyelids, often on both eyes.
- About half of people with them have raised cholesterol, so a blood test is a good idea.
- They’re more common in women and in people over 40.
- They rarely fade on their own, even when cholesterol comes down.
- Never squeeze, burn or use acids on them at home.
- See real results on our before and after page, or try our xanthelasma removal cream at home.
What Are Cholesterol Bumps On The Eyelid?
If you’ve noticed a soft yellow spot on your eyelid, or a few yellow bumps near the inner corner of your eye, you’re not alone. These are cholesterol deposits, and their medical name is xanthelasma palpebrarum, or xanthelasma for short. Many people search for them as “cholesterol eyelids” or “cholesterol bumps” before they ever learn the proper name.
The bumps are made of fat-filled cells sitting just under the thin skin of the eyelid. They’re usually flat or slightly raised, soft to the touch, and pale yellow to orange-yellow. They don’t hurt or itch, and they won’t affect your eyesight.
Who Gets Yellow Spots On The Eyelid?
Xanthelasma is the most common type of xanthoma, the name for fatty deposits in the skin. It’s more common in women than men and usually appears between the ages of 30 and 60. People with high cholesterol, diabetes, an underactive thyroid or liver problems are more likely to get it, and it can run in families. Hormonal changes, such as the menopause or pregnancy, can also be a time when patches first appear. If you’re under 40 and have them, your doctor may also check for an inherited cause of high cholesterol.
Noticed cholesterol on your eyelids? What to do next
- Check it’s xanthelasmaLook for soft, flat, yellow patches near the inner corner. Compare with our xanthelasma pictures.
- Ask your GP for a blood testA simple lipid test shows your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Look after your heart healthEat well, stay active and don’t smoke, whatever your results show.
- Leave the patches aloneDon’t squeeze, pick or cut them, as this can scar the delicate eyelid skin.
- Choose a cosmetic optionIf you want to improve their appearance, Xanthel® is made for your skin type and used at home.
- Keep an eye on changesSee your GP if a patch becomes painful, bleeds or changes quickly.
What Causes Cholesterol Deposits On Eyelids?
The most common cause is raised levels of fat in the blood: high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, high triglycerides or low HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Some of the fat leaks into the skin, where immune cells swallow it and swell up. When enough of them gather in the eyelid, they show through as a yellow bump.
But around half of people with cholesterol bumps on the eyelids have normal blood tests, according to NIH StatPearls. In these cases, local factors in the delicate eyelid skin, genetics and inflammation are thought to play a part. Diabetes, an underactive thyroid, liver or kidney conditions, some medicines, smoking and carrying extra weight can all add to the risk.
Treating Cholesterol Bumps On The Eyelids
There are two sides to treatment. The first is your health: if a blood test shows raised cholesterol, your doctor may suggest changes to your diet and lifestyle, or a medicine such as a statin. That helps protect your heart and may make new bumps less likely, but it rarely shrinks the ones you already have. It’s still well worth doing, because the bumps can be an early clue about your heart health.
The second is the look of the bumps themselves. Clinic options include laser, freezing, chemical peels and minor surgery, each with its own costs, risks and recovery time. Many people prefer a simpler route they can use privately at home. Our xanthelasma treatment guide compares every option side by side, with the pros, cons and typical costs, so you can choose what suits you.
Are Cholesterol Bumps On The Eyelid Harmful?
The bumps themselves aren’t harmful. They’re not cancerous, they’re not contagious and they don’t damage your eyes. Very large patches can occasionally make the eyelid feel a little heavy, but that’s rare.
They are worth taking seriously as a sign, though. Because they can be linked to raised cholesterol and a higher risk of heart disease, they’re a good reason to have a check-up, even if you feel perfectly well. Many people say the biggest effect is on their confidence, which is a perfectly good reason to want them treated. You don’t need to put up with them. If a bump changes quickly, bleeds or becomes painful, see a doctor, as it may be something else.
Cholesterol Eyelids And Your Heart Health
Cholesterol bumps on the eyelids can be an early clue that your body isn’t handling fats well. Over time, raised cholesterol can build up as fatty plaques in the arteries, narrowing them and making a heart attack or stroke more likely. The bumps don’t cause this, but they’re a useful nudge to get checked.
So start with a simple cholesterol test from your doctor. If your levels are high, lifestyle changes and sometimes medicine can bring them down.
For the bumps themselves, Xanthel® xanthelasma removal cream is a cosmetic gel designed to improve their look at home, usually with one application. Each kit is formulated to order for your skin type and tone, which is why it takes up to 8 days to arrive. Results vary from person to person.
Cholesterol Bumps On Eyelids: Questions People Ask
Can Cholesterol Bumps On The Eyelid Go Away On Their Own?
They very rarely do. Lowering your cholesterol is good for your health, but existing bumps usually stay unless they’re treated.
Do Cholesterol Bumps Mean I Have High Cholesterol?
Not always. About half of people with them have normal cholesterol, but it’s still worth having a blood test to check.
Can I Pop Or Squeeze A Cholesterol Bump?
No. They’re not spots and there’s nothing to squeeze out. Trying can damage the thin eyelid skin and cause infection or scarring.
Are Yellow Spots On The Eyelid The Same As Cholesterol Bumps?
Usually, yes. Soft yellow spots on the eyelid are almost always xanthelasma. White bumps are more likely to be milia.
Can Cholesterol Bumps Come Back After Treatment?
They can, because the tendency to form them is still there. Keeping your cholesterol in check gives you the best chance of staying clear.
