06/18/2026
Meet Chapstick the leopard gecko! 🦎
I recently treated Chapstick for a condition called ecdysis, which means difficulty shedding. Leopard geckos typically shed their skin about once a month, including a thin layer that covers their eyes.
When humidity levels are too low or a gecko isn't getting enough vitamin A in their diet, old shed can build up over time. In Chapstick's case, excess shed had accumulated over both eyes, likely causing discomfort and affecting her vision.
After carefully hydrating the area, I used specialized micro instruments to gently remove the excess shedding. I'm happy to report that Chapstick is doing great at home! Her owners are making adjustments to her habitat and diet to help support healthy sheds in the future.
If you notice excess shedding around your reptile's eyes, toes, or tail, it's important to have them examined before it leads to more serious problems.
