Updated on  October 22, 2024
4 min read

What Are Eyelash Mites?

7 sources cited
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Eyelash mites sound like something out of a horror movie, but they're actually a common and mostly harmless part of life.

These microscopic creatures live on our eyelashes, feeding on dead skin cells and oils. However, when their numbers get out of control, they can cause eye problems.

In this article, we'll discuss the causes and symptoms of eyelash mite infestations and share effective ways to keep them in check.

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What Are Eyelash Mites?

Eyelash mites, or Demodex mites, are tiny parasites in eyelash follicles. These microscopic mites feed off dead skin cells around the hair follicles on your eyelids.

Demodex mites are tiny, cigar-shaped bugs with eight legs that reside within or near the hair follicles of eyelashes and eyebrows.  They’re about a third of a millimeter long and clear, making them invisible to the naked eye.

Although they might sound frightening or creepy, they’re quite common and a normal part of the human microbiome. They typically eat the oils and dead skin cells that naturally accumulate on your skin, keeping it healthy by removing debris.

Types of Eyelash Mites

Two types of Demodex mites can cause eyelash mite outbreaks in humans: 

  • Demodex folliculorum. Usually on the hair follicles of the eyelashes
  • Demodex brevis. Usually found inside the skin oil glands

Demodex folliculorum is more likely to cause an eyelash mite outbreak on the face.

What Causes Eyelash Mites?

Eyelash mites are naturally occurring. However, some people with skin disorders that can cause flaking and dead skin tend to have more eyelash mites. 

These skin conditions include:

  • Inflammatory acne
  • Dermatitis
  • Alopecia
  • HIV
  • Skin infections

Although these conditions don’t cause mites, they increase flaking skin and dandruff, which mites flourish on.

What Happens if You Have Too Many Eyelash Mites?

Eyelash mites are typically harmless, but when there are too many or if you have an infestation, it might cause noticeable symptoms. These symptoms include:

  • Itchy eyelashes and eye area
  • Feeling like there’s something in your eye
  • Skin redness around the eyes
  • Burning eyes
  • Scaly, rough patches of skin
  • Crusted or sticky lashes
  • Frequent blinking
  • Recurrent styes
  • Worsening of other skin problems, such as dermatitis or rosacea
  • Eye inflammation
  • Blurry vision

If you have any of the above symptoms, we suggest seeking treatment from an eye doctor. These symptoms can be due to another eye problem, such as pink eye (conjunctivitis).

If left untreated, an infestation of eyelash mites can lead to Demodex blepharitis. Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. Over time, chronic blepharitis can cause eyelash growth abnormalities and interfere with your ability to see clearly.

How to Get Rid of Eyelash Mites

If you have too many mites on your eyelashes, you’ll need professional treatment from an eye doctor. However, medical treatments may not be necessary if the eyelash mites aren’t causing symptoms. 

For moderate cases, your doctor may recommend:

  • Tea tree oil wipes made specifically for the eye area
  • Eyelid cleanser containing tea tree oil
  • Medicated ointment to trap the mites and prevent them from laying eggs
  • Warm compresses to loosen the crust on eyelids
  • Artificial tears to relieve dry eye symptoms
  • Gently scrubbing eyes with tear-free shampoo to loosen the crust
  • Washing your face at least twice daily with a gentle cleanser free of harsh chemicals

Severe cases and those involving a bacterial infection may require antibiotic eyelid creams or steroid eye drops. If your mite infestation is associated with an underlying skin condition, your doctor will treat that, too.

How To Maintain A Healthy Amount of Eyelash Mites

The good news is that maintaining a healthy population of eyelash mites is pretty straightforward. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep your face and eyes clean throughout the day.
  • Use a gentle eyelid scrub or cleanser with tea tree oil.
  • Use a mild, non-soap cleanser on your eyelids and lashlines.
  • Remove your makeup before bed, especially mascara.
  • Mites feed on oil, so use oil-free skincare products to keep the mite population low.
  • Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, especially if they’re unclean.

Eyelash mites can be contagious, especially when people or animals with an infestation come into close contact. Sharing eye makeup can also lead to the transfer of mites.

While eyelash mites may be a natural part of our body's ecosystem, maintaining a healthy balance is key to preventing irritation and potential eye issues.

By following simple hygiene practices, using appropriate eye care products, and seeking professional help when needed, you can ensure that these tiny creatures remain harmless cohabitants of your eyelashes.

Updated on  October 22, 2024
7 sources cited
Updated on  October 22, 2024
  1. Stepko, B. “Are Your (Ew!) Eyelash Mites out of Control?” AARP, 2020.
  2. Rhee et al. “Demodex Blepharitis: A Comprehensive Review of the Disease, Current Management, and Emerging Therapies.” Eye Contact Lens, 2023.
  3. Siclait, A. “What Are Eyelash Mites—And How Do You Know If You Have Them?” Women’s Health, 2018.
  4. Boyd, K. “What Is Sleep Crust?” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2024.
  5. Why Are My Eyes Crusty?” Cleveland Clinic, 2022.
  6. Bhandari, V, and Reddy, JK. “Blepharitis: Always Remember Demodex.” Middle East African Journal of Ophthalmology, 2014.
  7. Mukamal, R. “Are Tiny Mites Causing Your Blepharitis?” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2022.
The information provided on VisionCenter.org should not be used in place of actual information provided by a doctor or a specialist.