Close-up of a person getting eyelash extensions applied, with a technician using tweezers to attach individual eyelashes to natural lashes, and protective eye pads beneath the eye.

What is demodex?

Demodex are microscopic mites that live in or near the hair follicles on the eyelids and eyelashes.

While they are a natural part of our skin environment, an overgrowth can cause blepharitis, lash loss, and chronic eye irritation.

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Common Causes of Demodex:

✔️ Bacterial overgrowth along the lash line

✔️ Skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis

✔️ Natural skin changes with age

✔️ Makeup & lash products like mascara, eyeliner, and lash extensions

A person is getting eyelash extensions applied by a technician in a spa or beauty salon setting.

Common Symptoms of Demodex:

✔️ Crusty buildup at the base of eyelashes

✔️ Red, irritated eyes

✔️ Itchy eyelids, especially at night

✔️ Repeated eye infections, styes, or chalazia

✔️ Lash thinning, loss, or misdirected growth

Demodex treatment

At BRIGHT Eyes, we use advanced solutions to directly target Demodex mites and restore eyelid health, including:

✔️ ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) Deep Cleansing to remove debris from the lids & lashes

✔️ NuLids Pro to exfoliate away mite buildup

✔️ Low-level light therapy (LLLT) to reduce bacteria and inflammation

✔️ Targeted lid hygiene regimens for at-home care

✔️ XDEMVY™ prescription eye drops for the treatment of Demodex blepharitis

If left untreated, demodex can lead to:

✔️ Chronic red, itchy eyelids

✔️ Crusty debris around the lashes

✔️ Styes or chalazia (painful bumps)

✔️ Worsening dry eye symptoms

✔️ Further lash thinning or loss

Clean and restore your lids & lashes

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If you’ve been struggling with itchy, irritated eyelids that never seem to improve, Demodex mites could be the cause. At BRIGHT Eyes in Boone, North Carolina, we can help you refresh and restore your eye health with targeted treatments for Demodex and blepharitis.