Expert Explains Terrifying Reason Your Eyes Could Be Itchy and Red
Many people find themselves rubbing away at itchy eyes, but one horrifying cause can be down to microscopic parasites living in your lashes. Eye expert, Britain Todd, explains that these parasites, specifically Demodex mites, are microscopic parasites that reside on our skin, commonly on the eyelids. There are two main types: Demodex folliculorum, living in hair follicles, and Demodex brevis, found in sebaceous glands. While most individuals have them in small, harmless numbers, certain conditions like aging, weakened immune systems, or poor hygiene can cause their numbers to increase, leading to problems.
- Eye mites can cause blepharitis, resulting in redness, itching, and swelling of the eyelids.
- They may induce eyelash issues, such as loss or misalignment.
- They can contribute to chronic eye irritation, causing dryness or a gritty feeling in the eyes.
To treat eye mites, maintaining good hygiene is crucial. This involves regular cleaning of the eyelids. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe medicated treatments or recommend products with tea tree oil, known to reduce the mite population. Contours RX B5 Prep Pads are designed to cleanse and prepare the skin for cosmetic products – removing dead skin cells, the mites’ food source. While not specifically formulated to treat or reduce Demodex mites, they work by removing oils, dirt, and makeup residue from the eyelids, creating an environment less favorable for eye mites to thrive.
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