Have you noticed a yellowish growth on or near the corners of your eyelids, particularly close to your nose? If so, you might be dealing with a condition known as xanthelasma. While this is common, it can indicate underlying health conditions.
Below, we’ll explain xanthelasma, its causes and the most effective treatment options.
What is xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma, medically referred to as xanthelasma palpebrarum, is a condition characterised by the development of benign, yellowish growths on the skin. These growths are typically soft, flat or slightly raised and appear as plaques or patches.
They are most commonly found on the upper or lower eyelids, particularly near the inner corner of the eye. They are often symmetrical and can grow over time, both in size and thickness, that they can cover a significant portion of the eyelid.
Xanthelasma is more common in middle-aged and older individuals of Asian and Mediterranean descent, with a higher prevalence in women than in men. It is also more frequently observed in people with certain health conditions, such as hyperlipidemia, liver disease and diabetes.
While not painful, their appearance can be a cosmetic concern for many.
What is the main cause of xanthelasma?
Genetic factors
One of the genetic factors in the development of xanthelasma is inherited high cholesterol, a condition known medically as familial hypercholesterolemia. This genetic disorder affects how your body eliminates bad cholesterol, resulting in high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in your blood. This genetic predisposition makes you more susceptible to these cholesterol deposits.
Lifestyle factors
Diet
If you regularly consume foods high in fats, cholesterol, and calories, you may be at a higher risk of developing xanthelasma. Such a diet can lead to increased LDL cholesterol levels, the type often associated with forming these cholesterol deposits.
Lack of exercise
Besides diet, a sedentary lifestyle is another significant factor contributing to the development of xanthelasma. Lack of regular physical activity can lead to weight gain and poor cholesterol metabolism, both risk factors for xanthelasma.
Medical conditions
Interestingly, not all individuals with xanthelasma have high cholesterol levels. This observation has led some experts to believe that other factors, such as inflammation, might also contribute to the development of xanthelasma. Chronic inflammation in the body, regardless of cholesterol levels, can lead to changes in the skin and the formation of these characteristic plaques.
Does xanthelasma ever go away?
In general, xanthelasma plaques do not resolve on their own. Once formed, these cholesterol deposits remain or may grow in size over time unless actively treated.
What is the treatment of choice for xanthelasma?
The choice of treatment for xanthelasma often depends on the size and location of the plaques and your overall health and preferences. Each method has its side effects, which your doctor will discuss.
Here’s what you can expect:
Surgical procedures
Surgical excision has traditionally been a preferred method for treating xanthelasma because it yields excellent cosmetic outcomes. There are several techniques:
- Traditional surgical excision
- Le Roux’s technique, a modified blepharoplasty approach
- Simple excision with blepharoplasty ( we do not do blepharoplasty at ENRICH)
- Simple excision and local flaps or skin grafts
- Surgery and chemical peeling
- Light electrodesiccation and topical trichloroacetic acid (TCA) application
Chemical peels
Chemical peeling with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is another recognised treatment for xanthelasma.
TCA is used topically in concentrations ranging from 50% to 100%. The application process involves carefully smearing the TCA in a circular manner, ensuring the highest concentration at the lesion’s margins. After application, the treatment area is neutralised with sodium bicarbonate to halt the acid’s effect.
Laser
Laser ablation has emerged as an effective therapy for the treatment of xanthelasma. This technique uses lasers to precisely treat the affected areas by:
- destruction of perivascular foam cells
- coagulation of dermal vessels
The thermal energy generated by the laser destroys the foam cells around blood vessels. These cells are typically laden with lipids and contribute to the formation of xanthelasma. Then, the treatment coagulates the blood vessels in the dermis to block further leakage of lipids into the surrounding tissue, which is crucial in preventing the recurrence of xanthelasma.
There are different techniques your dermatologist can use:
- CO2 laser
- Erbium Laser
- Q-switched Nd:YAG laser
- Argon laser
- Potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser
- Pulsed dye laser
At ENRICH Clinic, we use the Erbium laser for xanthelasma treatment.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency (RF) ablation has been explored as another treatment option for xanthelasma. According to studies, RF ablation can be effective and may require fewer treatment sessions compared to chemical peeling.
But, it is associated with a higher rate of complications, such as scarring and pigmentation, compared to TCA treatment.
How can you prevent xanthelasma?
While xanthelasma itself is not harmful, its presence–as previously mentioned–can be a sign of underlying health issues, mainly related to cholesterol and lipid metabolism. So preventing it often involves overall health and lifestyle changes, such as:
Managing cholesterol levels
Since high cholesterol levels are closely linked with the development of xanthelasma, managing these levels is crucial. You can achieve this through:
- Incorporating a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- If prescribed by a healthcare provider, taking cholesterol-lowering medications can effectively manage cholesterol levels.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Lifestyle choices significantly prevent xanthelasma. Regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and improve cholesterol metabolism is one. Another is avoiding smoking, which can exacerbate cholesterol-related issues.
Having regular health check-ups
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help in early detection and management of conditions that might lead to xanthelasma, such as hyperlipidemia, liver diseases and thyroid disorders.
Monitoring and managing underlying health conditions
If you have conditions like diabetes, liver disease, or thyroid issues, managing these effectively is another solution to preventing xanthelasma.
Get a xanthelasma treatment plan at ENRICH
If you are concerned about xanthelasma and looking for treatment options, we can create a treatment plan for you. Contact us today.
