Types of Demodex mites: what to know

Demodex folliculorum is associated with hair follicles, while Demodex brevis tends to live deeper in oil glands. Small numbers may be present without causing symptoms. An overgrowth or skin reaction can contribute to roughness, redness, itching, follicle bumps, eyelid irritation or a sand-like eye sensation. Similar signs can occur with rosacea, allergy, irritation or infection, so visible redness alone cannot identify mites.

Keep the face and eyelid area clean with a gentle, non-scrubbing routine, and avoid sharing towels, eye makeup or pillowcases while symptoms are active. Do not apply household insect products or unprescribed medicines to the skin or eyes. A clinician may examine a skin sample, eyelashes or the affected area and choose a targeted topical treatment. Medicated shampoo is not automatically suitable for facial or eyelid skin; use it only when specifically advised.

Book an assessment for persistent facial bumps, flushing, eyelid crusting or recurrent eye discomfort. Seek urgent eye care for eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision or pronounced swelling. These symptoms need examination because irritation around the eye can have causes unrelated to Demodex and may threaten the eye if treatment is delayed.

Ask whether your findings fit Demodex overgrowth or rosacea, whether testing is useful, which areas should be treated, how to clean eyelids safely, and when symptoms should be reviewed.