What is Demodex and Blepharitis?

We hate this topic, but we feel it is important to bring up because not everyone knows that there are tiny mites called Demodex that live in or near the hair follicles of your eyelashes.  They are also found on facial skin especially the forehead, cheeks, sides of the nose, eyelashes and external ear canals.  There are two species that live on almost every human: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis, both are referred to as eyelash mites.  These Demodex are not something you get, you already have them on your face and lashes (at least 2 per eyelash).  They are believed to be there to help clean your lashes and follicles and remove dead skin cells and bacteria. An infestation of Demodex can cause blepharitis.  That is why it is vital that you take care of your eyelashes and eyelash extensions, cleanse your eyes daily and never sleep with your eye makeup on.  For more information regarding Demodex see:

1. http://www.bbc.com/earth/story/20150508-these-mites-live-on-your-face
2. https://cliradex.com/myths-and-facts-of-demodex-blepharitis/
3. http://optometrytimes.modernmedicine.com/optometrytimes/content/tags/blephex/different-approach-treating-demodex-blepharitis