Despite their awful name, eyelash mites are actually quite common. Virtually everyone has Demodex mites living on their skin.
Most people don’t experience any issues with them.If their population becomes too large, they may irritate you, make you uncomfortable and even cause eye issues. As we get older, recognizing and handling them is very important.
Who Are Eyelash Mites?
According to the website WebMD, Demodex mites are small parasites that are usually found in human hair follicles and sebaceous glands.
In general, there are two types: Demodex folliculorum thrives in hair follicles and Demodex brevis is found in oil glands. While mites are usually harmless for humans, poor hygiene, age or a low immune system can cause their population to rise, resulting in blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).
Several Signs that You May Have Eyelash Mites
Some people do not have any issues, but an abundance of Demodex mites might lead to unpleasant sensations. Signs include:
A condition where your eyelids are red, itchy or swollen.
An uncomfortable and stinging feeling in the eyes.
Dirt around the edge of the eyelashes.
An excessive loss of eyelashes or thinning.
An increased reaction to light.
If what you’re experiencing sounds like eyelash mites, it could help to consult your doctor or an eye specialist.
Managing and removing eyelash mites from your lashes.
Helping to avoid eyelash mites comes naturally by caring for your eyes and practicing hygiene. These are the steps that Healthline suggests you should try:
Regularly clean your face.
Make sure to wash your face regularly and pay close attention to your eyelids and lashes. Avoid using harsh cleansers on your skin, since they can make your condition worse.
Use eyelid wipes regularly.
Removing debris and oil from your eyelids with specially made wipes is beneficial, since mites tend to thrive in these areas. Check products that have tea tree oil, as it is known to fight germs.
Wash the covers on your mattress regularly.
Since mites might get onto your bedding, remember to clean the bed sheets and pillowcases frequently. Wash them in warm water and set the dryer to high for the best outcome.
Avoid Using Personal Belongings
It is better not to share stuff like makeup or towels because it can lead to mites.
Access the services offered by a specialist.
If the condition is very serious, a healthcare expert may advise using medicinal creams or prescription lotions.
It is important to focus on preventing problems.
Skin care becomes more important for seniors, as changes in their skin may give way for mites to grow. Visiting the dentist regularly and looking after your teeth at home prevent many issues.
However, letting eyelash mites grow can lead to plenty of unpleasant symptoms. Staying aware and taking action can help protect your eyes from any intruders.
