What Are the Treatments for Mites in Eyebrows & Eyelashes?

Mites that live in the eyebrows and eyelashes are known as demodex mites, a small organism that lives in the small hair follicles of the face. They are common and typically do not require treatment, though there way to reduce the chances of them proliferating.

Symptoms

Demodex mites, also known as demodicids, can cause an appearance of dandruff falling from the hair of the eyebrows, eyelashes and beard, as well as mild hair loss.

Problems

Demodex mites typically live within the hair follicle and eat dead skin cells without anyone ever noticing. However, according to DermNet, an increase of the mites in the eyelashes has been found in some cases of blepharitis, which is an inflammation of the margins of the eyelid.

Treatment

Demodex mites typically require no treatment, though washing your face with a light cleanser and exfoliating can help prevent them from multiplying out of control.

Medical Treatment

If you have another condition thought to be linked to the proliferation of demodex mites, your doctor may prescribe insecticides such as permethrin or crotamiton, which are applied directly to the infected area.

Prevention

The number of mites in the eyelashes and eyebrows can be lessened by washing the face with a gentle cleanser, discontinuing the use of heavy make-up and removing dead skin cells (exfoliation).

References

• DermNet NZ: Demodex
• Demodex Folliculorum