Demodex mites live at the base of our hair follicle. We all have them but there are times when they cause problems. Read more!
(Image is a close up rendering of the Demodex mite)
Demodex mites are microscopic parasites that naturally live on our skin. These mites are typically harmless and live in our hair follicles, primarily on the face, particularly around the nose, eyebrows, and eyelashes. While they are a normal part of our skin's ecosystem, certain conditions can lead to an overgrowth of Demodex mites, potentially causing skin issues.
Facial hair - LASH EXTENSIONS and BEARDS, for example - can provide an environment conducive to the proliferation of Demodex mites. The density and length of facial hair creates the perfect environment for these mites to thrive. When Demodex mites overpopulate, they can contribute to skin problems such as acne, rosacea, or dermatitis. The skin can become red, rashy, and itchy and not only in the beard area. With fake lashes, often women are not cleansing this area as well as they should and the mites can severely irritate our delicate eye tissue.
Demodex mites are a core issue for those who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, and rosacea. Additionally, these mites play a significant role for acne sufferers, boosting inflammation and follicular blockage, helping to create more pimples.
Those who suffer from rosacea usually have an excess amount of Demodex mites. These mites create a specific bacteria which is known to worsen rosacea.
Here are some tips to help avoid issues with Demodex mites, particularly when you have facial hair:
Regular Cleansing: Cleanse your face thoroughly, DAILY, especially areas with facial hair, using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
Exfoliation: Regular (once weekly at most), yet gentle, exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and debris, which can reduce the likelihood of mites finding a favorable environment to thrive. However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin and exacerbate issues.
Trimming and Grooming: Keep your facial hair trimmed and well-groomed. Shorter hair is less likely to trap excess oils and provide a habitat for mites.
Avoiding Oil-based Products: Heavy oils and greasy products can exacerbate issues with Demodex mites. Opt for non-comedogenic, water-based moisturizers and products to reduce the risk of clogging pores and promoting mite growth. There are several beard oils and grooming kits targeting men, so be careful.
Regular Washing of Bedding and Towels: Regularly wash your pillowcases, bedding, and towels to eliminate any potential mite habitats. Use hot water and a mild detergent to effectively kill any mites present.
Medical Attention: If the skin becomes painful and develops any open wounds, please seek medical help. There are prescriptions available that help kill the mites. For those who regularly wear lash extensions, never ignore redness or soreness in the eye or the immediate eye area.
Several Roccoco products contain natural ingredients, safe to use for all ages, to help manage a Demodex mite issue - lashes included (with an amazing lash-extension safe serum). If these mites are possibly an issue you or someone close to you, please contact us to review and revise your homecare routine.
(Image below, Demodex infestation can range in severity. This is how it commonly looks early on.)
