If you’ve ever experienced red, irritated, itchy eyelids that just won’t go away—despite drops, warm compresses, or even antibiotics—you might be dealing with something that can’t be seen with the naked eye: Demodex mites.
What Are Demodex Mites?
Demodex mites are microscopic parasites that live in the hair follicles and oil glands of human skin, especially around the eyelashes and eyebrows. While most people have them in small numbers without symptoms, a higher-than-normal population can cause a chronic inflammatory condition called blepharitis—one of the most common reasons patients seek eye care.
How Do Demodex Mites Cause Blepharitis?
There are two main species of Demodex that affect humans: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. These mites can:
-
Clog eyelash follicles, causing inflammation and swelling
-
Leave behind waste that triggers allergic or inflammatory responses
-
Lead to lash loss, crusting, dryness, and a “gritty” feeling in the eyes
Key Symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis
-
Itchy or burning eyelids
-
Redness and swelling of the lid margins
-
Crusty debris (known as “cylindrical dandruff”) around the lashes
-
Dry eye symptoms that don’t improve with traditional treatment
Why Diagnosis Requires an Eye Doctor
Demodex mites are invisible to the naked eye and cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. An optometrist or ophthalmologist must examine your lashes under a microscope after removing a few to confirm the presence of mites. This in-office diagnostic method is the gold standard and cannot be replaced by over-the-counter testing or self-diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Demodex Blepharitis
Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on reducing the mite population and restoring lid health. Options include:
-
Tea tree oil-based lid scrubs (prescription or in-office)
-
Specialized cleansers like hypochlorous acid or okra-based solutions
-
Professional in-office treatments to deep clean lash roots
-
Daily hygiene routines to prevent reinfestation
Why Proper Treatment Matters
Left untreated, Demodex blepharitis can lead to chronic dry eye, eye infections, and lash damage. Accurate diagnosis and early intervention by an eye care professional are critical to relief and long-term eye health.
Concerned You Might Have Demodex?
If you’ve been struggling with persistent eyelid irritation or dry eye symptoms, it may be time to get evaluated. At Belmont Eye Center, our expert team uses the latest in diagnostic tools and treatment options to detect and manage Demodex-related blepharitis. Schedule an exam with us and get the relief you deserve.
