Demodex Blepharitis

Demodex mites are tiny, naturally occurring parasites on the eyelids that can cause irritation and blepharitis when overpopulated.

Demodex mites are microscopic, cigar-shaped parasites with eight legs that live in the hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands of humans, particularly around the eyelashes and eyebrows.  They feed on dead skin cells and oils, helping to clean the skin under normal conditions  Most people carry these mites without noticing any symptoms, and they are considered a normal part of the skin microbiome.

Symptoms of Overpopulation

While usually harmless, an overgrowth of Demodex mites can lead to Demodex blepharitis, a common eyelid inflammation. Symptoms include:

• Itchy or burning eyes, often worse at night or early morning 
• Red, swollen, or puffy eyelids
• Crusty flakes along the eyelashes, also called collarettes or cylindrical dandruff 
• Dry eyes, blurred vision, or a sensation of something rubbing against the eye
• Scaly or rough patches around the eyelids.
  
  

 Examples of Collarettes

Effective Treatment

There is a substance in tea tree oil which is perfect for getting rid of the mites. It's a substance called T2O and is the best way to treat them. We recommend DemEx solution which gives a 6 week cleaning regime that works really well. (You need to do the 6 weeks as you have to go through the mites life cycle time or it won't work as new eggs hatch.

Prevention

Maintaining good eyelid hygiene, avoiding sharing cosmetics, and managing underlying skin conditions can help prevent Demodex overgrowth. Regular cleaning of the eyelid area and face is recommended, especially for older adults or those prone to skin disorders.
This sounds awful, thinking about little mites living in the follicles of our eyelashes but, Demodex mites are a normal part of the skin ecosystem, but when they multiply excessively, they can cause discomfort and eyelid inflammation. Effective treatment and consistent eyelid hygiene can control infestations and relieve symptoms.

I really hope this helps some of you who have stubborn blepharitis - the best advice as ever is to see your optometrist and get them to have a look for you!