Demodex Mites (Eyelash Mites): Symptoms, causes and treatment

Demodex mites or eyelash mites are a type of microscopical parasite that live on the human skin.

- Amritha K

It is very common and almost all of us have the mite residing in our skin. As they are microscopical, it is not just visible to the human eye. Demodex mites are of two types, Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis and both can be found on the eyelashes. These parasites are also found on the cheeks and nose, and anywhere around the oil glands. Mostly, the eyelash mites are harmless and go unnoticed by the human eye. The mites are found within your hair follicles, where they survive by feeding off of the dead cells around your lashes and eyelids. Amongst the two, D, folliculorum is the one that is most likely to affect your eyelashes. Studies have revealed that about 84% of the population aged 60 and 100% of the individuals who are aged 70 and above are infected by these mites. Therefore, it can be easily ascertained that the older you are, the higher the chance of getting eyelash mites. Also, Demodex is increasingly found in people who do not adopt good hygiene measures. The Demodex mites or the eyelash mites are prone to grow in places that may be difficult to reach or routinely clean such as around the cheekbone, eye socket and the sides of the nose. Even though almost all of us have eyelash mites, it can still spread through close contact with humans and animals.Symptoms of demodex mites

As the parasites are microscopic in size, they are not visible to the human eyes. The following signs can indicate the growth of the mites on your eyelashes.

e Redness around the eyes

e Itchiness in the eyelashes and surrounding skin

e Burning sensation in the eyes

e Scaly and rough patches of skin (crusting)

e Blurry vision

e A sensation of foreign bodies in the area

@ Eyelashes missing

e Acne