Many people do not know that mites can live on their eyelashes. The mites that can be found on our eyelashes go by the name of Demodex. A parasite called Demodex can be usually found in human skin. It is microscopic which means you will not observe that you have them unless symptoms were shown. Demodex is not something you can wipe off just like dirt because they grow and stay. Eyelash mites can cause rosacea and blepharitis.
There are different types of Demodex which are around 65 species but only two of them live on humans. Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis are similar to each other and both are referred to as eyelash mites. Demodex brevis can be found in sebaceous glands which feed off the oil in the hair follicles. It is separated from each other, unlike Demodex folliculorum that lives together in groups.
The Journal of American Academy of Dermatology published in their study that as we age, both species show but Demodex brevis appears to be lesser. Both species concentrate on the face but Demodex brevis can also appear on the body.
Eyelash mites can be examined using a microscope that can enlarge the lash by 16 to 18 times. Beware that you can also find them on your cheeks, chin, forehead, eyebrows, nose, not only on your eyelashes. Demodex brevis grows up to 0.2 mm only while Demodex folliculorum is usually 0.3 to 0.4 mm.
Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention of Eyelash Mites
It is important to know those eyelash mites are contagious which can be transmitted by close contact. It usually happens indirectly with sharing of makeup or the use of eyelash extensions that are not cleaned properly. Not all patients who have Demodex can exhibit symptoms.
The common symptom is the eyelashes become brittle, thin, and loose compared to a healthy one that is sleek and sturdy. You may also experience itching at the roots of eyelashes, eyelid redness, and stickiness.
- These are the following tips that can help in preventing eyelash mites:
- Make sure to stay away from oil-based facial products
- Never share makeup or brushes with other people
- Remove makeup at the end of the day
- Clean brushes and applicators regularly
Is It Possible to Have Blurry Vision Due to Eyelash Mites?
It has been discovered by Korean researchers that the presence of eyelash mites has a relationship to visual discomfort. When blepharitis occurs, you may have a burning and itching feeling that affects tear film. A tear film that is affected will cause blurry vision.
The Ocular Surface Research & Education has researchers that shared that a patient that is successfully treated observed how to tear film stabilized. With this, the patient reported a better vision.
