Getting Rid of Demodex Mites
By Eye Doctors Jenna and Travis Zigler
What Are Demodex Eyelash Mites?
Demodex are tiny mites found in or near hair follicles. They are most commonly found on the face and around the eyelashes, and they feed on the skin cells, bacteria, and oil there. They're usually about 0.3 mm long, have eight legs, and their body is covered in scales for anchoring into a hair follicle. Feeling itchy yet?!
Infestation is very common, especially in the elderly and immunocompromised people, and usually does not cause symptoms, but eye issues such as blepharitis, dry eyes, and meibomian gland dysfunction can be exacerbated.
Demodex Treatment
1. Apply Heat Using A Warm Compress
This is a simple way to reduce the effects of MGD. The heat from a warm compress will heat up the compacted oil and allow the oils to disperse more freely. The mites are less likely to feed on oil that isn't stagnant and full of bacteria. To use a warm compress eye mask, simply microwave the mask on high for 20 seconds, test the temperature on the inside of your wrist, and then place over your closed eyelids for 15-20 minutes. Sit back and relax! You'll want to do this twice per day for maintenance.
2. Wash Your Face With Soap That Contains Tea Tree Oil For Lashes and Eyelids
Tea tree essential oil has known antibacterial properties that work well to kill off microorganisms on the skin around the eyelids. Tea Tree oil is a know killer of demodex and this is why we recommend this natural soap for getting rid of demodex mites. It's imperative to keep your facial and eyelid skin clean while treating demodex, because more bacteria will only exacerbate the issue. To use, simply lather the soap between wet hands and apply in circular motions to your wet face, taking care to close the eyes tightly and rinse them well afterward. You can even use this soap in the shower as a shampoo for scalp demodex and dandruff.
The Heyedrate Tea Tree Oil Soap has the following ingredients: organic green tea, organic olive oil, organic cocnut oil, raw shea butter, and tea tree essential oil.
3. Keep Your Eyelids Clean With A Hypochlorous Acid Based Eyelid Cleanser
With all of the bacteria that naturally live on our eyelids and skin, it is so important that those who suffer from demodex always keep their eyelids clean. If you suffer from blepharitis, demodex, or MGD, cleaning the lids and lashes with an effective eyelid cleanser is the best way to ensure that bacteria does not lead to an over-infestation of demodex. A hypochlorous-based cleanser is a great demodex medication because it's super gentle and requires no scrubbing. If you want to keep it super simple, you can simply spray it on your closed eyelids and go.
The Heyedrate Lid and Lash Cleanser contains just 3 ingredients:
Hypochlorous Acid, Electrolyzed Water, and Sodium Chloride
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