“I always tell my patients, ‘We are never alone,’” said Melanie Mason, clinical assistant professor of optometry at the University of California, Berkeley.
As troubling as this may seem, it shouldn’t worry us too much. These mites are part of our normal skin microbiome, which also includes other microorganisms. According to research, they are usually kept in check by our immune system, but can sometimes cause worrying symptoms such as redness, inflammation and burning, as well as vision problems.
However, when problems arise, mites can be controlled with simple treatments, experts say.
Demodex mites are often acquired during childhood, transmitted primarily through skin-to-skin contact with others. Their prevalence can increase with age and, according to one study, almost 95% of people are infected before the age of 72.
Two main species are commonly found in humans: Demodex folliculorumwhich usually lives in hair follicles, including eyelashes, and Brief Demodex, which usually lives in oil glands called sebaceous glands, eating dead skin cells and sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin. They are also found on other areas of the face and, more rarely, elsewhere on the body, such as the groin.
These mites are not a problem unless the balance between them and our immune system is disrupted and they begin to multiply, causing symptoms.
Overcrowding around the eyes, for example, is linked to blepharitis, an eye disease characterized by redness, itching, inflammation, and, in extremely rare and severe cases, an inflammatory disease of the peripheral cornea called marginal keratitis. “However, we do not yet know exactly what causes mite overpopulation in some people and which comes first: mite overpopulation or blepharitis,” said Natasha Herz, an ophthalmologist and spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Overcrowding on other parts of the face is associated with some common skin conditions such as rosacea, which is not serious but presents as a persistent red rash on the forehead, cheeks and nose.
People who experience eye symptoms such as redness, irritation, burning, tearing, crusting and sticking of the eyelid or vision problems should consult an ophthalmologist. And those who experience facial redness with swollen, pus-filled bumps and visible small blood vessels — the telltale signs of rosacea — may want to see a dermatologist.
Treatments may include facial scrubs and wipes containing low concentrations of tea tree oil (mixing your own concentration is not recommended as high concentrations can be harmful to the eyes), medicated eye drops overcrowding around the eyes, and even some antiparasitics and antibiotics for facial infections.
“Our goal is not to completely eradicate them. We aim to get them back to a population that is good for the patient,” Mason said. “It would be virtually impossible to completely eliminate them from your body.”
What else do you need to know:
According to some experts, Demodex mites are not linked to personal hygiene, but maintaining the balance of the skin microbiome can help prevent overcrowding.
- Wash your face, including your eyebrows and eyelashes, with a gentle cleanser that is safe to use around the eyes. Also moisturize your face.
- Do not share cosmetic products, and change them as indicated. According to research, Demodex mites can survive in certain types of makeup for short periods of time.
- Avoid exposure to the sun. Increased heat and sweat can lead to more oil production, which can provide more food for mites, said Bruce Robinson, a dermatologist in New York. “There is a delicate balance between dust mites and our immune system which controls them. But obviously if there is more food, they will generally proliferate,” he said.
Demodex mites are common and can live asymptomatically on your face, including in your eyelashes. However, in some cases they can cause symptoms and require treatment.
News Source : www.washingtonpost.com
Gn Health
