Most of the time, humans andDemodexmites coexist with no problem.
Demodicosis
An infestation of eyelash mites is calleddemodicosis.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Power and Syred / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
Demodexmites often are first passed from mothers to newborns, particularly those who are breastfed.
Demodexmites become more prevalent during puberty as the number of sebaceous glands increases.
The risk is further increased if the eyelids are not part of daily hygiene practices.
DermNet /CC BY-NC-ND
Cylindrical dandruff on the eyelash is a classic sign ofDemodexinfestation.
The healthcare provider may also obtain an eyelash for examination under the microscope.
In some cases, it may not be diagnosed until the symptoms fail to respond to a prescribed treatment.
Ali Majdfar / Getty Images
The treatment may include topical or oral medications, used alone or in combination.
Among them:
To avoid relapse after treatment, avoid greasy eye makeup and oil-based cleansers that can promoteDemodexovergrowth.
Never use someone else’s eye makeup.
However, it can be treated to prevent further symptoms.
Treating blepharitis starts by keeping your eyelids clean.
Try washing your eyelids each day using water and a gentle cleanser, such as baby shampoo.
If it still causes symptoms, then visiting a healthcare provider may be necessary.
They can prescribe eye drops and medication to effectively treat the blepharitis.
Yes, everyone has eyelash mites.
Most people have a small amount of them that cause no issues.
Be sure to remove any excess oil.
Before using tea tree oil, see to it that it is a 50 percent solution.
100 percent concentrations of tea tree oil can cause swelling and redness.
If necessary, the oil can be diluted even further with walnut oil and still be effective.
Fromstein S, Harthan J, Patel J, Opitz D.Demodex blepharitis: Clinical perspectives.
Clin Optom (Auckl).
2017;36:S9-S14.
doi:10.1097/ICO.0000000000001361
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Demodex Infestation.
2019;32(6):e13103.
doi:10.1111/dth.13103
National Eye Institute.Blepharitis.
Eyelash Mites:What Are Eyelash Mites (Demodex)?
