There are hundreds of Demodex mites, also known as eyelash mites, living in various regions on the human face. During the day, they hide stealthily, emerging at night to mate and lay eggs…
According to Michelle Trautwein, an entomologist at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, Demodex derives its name from Greek, meaning “fat” and “dull bug,” but they are not actually bugs; they are arachnids.
Image: KQED/Deep Look
This species of mite is typically quite fat and has eight legs, measuring about 0.3mm, making them very difficult to detect with the naked eye.
Most Demodex are found in areas with high sebaceous gland activity on the human body, as these regions have larger pores that provide them with easy hiding spots. Additionally, sebum serves as food for Demodex, helping these mites produce a protective layer for their bodies.
According to the nonprofit organization NPR, the areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the sides of the nose, eyebrows, scalp, and even the genital region, also host these mites.
Video about the existence of Demodex mites on the human face – (Video: DEEP LOOK)
Michelle Trautwein states that Demodex live for about two weeks, spending most of their time hiding in hair follicles and crawling to the surface of the skin when we sleep to mate and lay eggs.
This is why the population of Demodex significantly increases each night, and because they “hide” in hair follicles, they are very difficult to eliminate through regular washing.
According to NPR, some studies suggest that Demodex mites are linked to rosacea, a condition that causes redness, acne, and even pus-filled lesions on the face.
They can also cause Demodex dermatitis, a disease that leads to allergic skin reactions, acne, and can be easily transmitted through kissing, cheek rubbing, or using shared towels.
“Portrait” of Demodex mites living on the human face – (Image: HIGIENE DENTAL)
To limit the spread and presence of Demodex on the face, the American health website WebMD suggests washing the face daily with warm water, applying warm compresses to reduce swelling in acne-prone areas, and maintaining hygiene while cleaning eyelashes.
Additionally, individuals should use a facial cleansing gel twice a day and dry their faces with towels designated for personal use only.
However, Trautwein advises not to worry too much because “Demodex is found on almost all of our bodies, and some Demodex are even beneficial for the skin.”
“They have had a close relationship with humans since ancient times, and are closely associated with each person’s life.”, she added.
