Have you ever noticed red, irritated eyelids or an itchy, scratchy feeling at the base of your lashes? You might have been told you have Demodex blepharitis, or DB. Although DB may sound concerning, it’s very common. And, there are effective treatments available. 

What Is Demodex Blepharitis? 

Demodex blepharitis is a common type of eyelid inflammation caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites. tiny These mites are tiny micro-organisms that live in your eyelash follicles. Everyone has some Demodex mites, but when their numbers increase too much, they can lead to irritation and inflammation. 

Signs and Symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis: 

🔴 Red, swollen eyelids 
🤕 Itchy or scratchy sensation at the lash line 
⚡ Burning or irritation, especially in the morning 
🕵️‍♂️ Crusty debris at the bas...

Focusing on these three essential habits are of the utmost importance in maintaining healthy eyes. Let's cultivate good habits around eye hygiene this month, it's important to pay special attention to the well-being of our eyes. Afterall, they are the only pair we'll ever have. 

Tip 1: Remove Your Contact Lenses 

Remove your contact lenses before any of the three "S"s. Never leave your contact lenses in your eyes while:

1. Showering
2. Swimming
3. Sleeping

Removing your lenses prior to these three S's ensures you keep your eyes in top shape. Each of these activities increases your risks of sight threatening eye infections. Always removing contacts before any of these situations will reduce your risk of complications and maintain healthy habits.

The most effective contact lens cleanser o...

In an earlier blog, I discussed the importance of using a warm compress mask as part of a daily treatment regimen for dry eyes.  However, some of my patients find it hard to use a mask because of a facial condition they have.  The condition is called Acne Rosacea.  It is quite common in light skinned folks or those with heritage from Northern European countries.

 Acne Rosacea causes irregular blood vessels to form on the skin.  If you have rosacea on your cheeks, there is an 80% chance that you also have rosacea on your eyelids.

 When these irregular blood vessels are close to the eyes, they bring inflammation to its front surface.  This inflammation fuels to cycle of dry eyes.

 My patients that have rosacea, are not fans of using warm compresses because they can cause these blood ves...

I hope that most Americans have gotten into the habit of having their eyes checked once a year.  No matter your age or stage of life, you should be having an annual eye exam.  And, if you are having a problem with your eyes, schedule an appointment to see your eye doctor.

A lot of times, patients come to see me for a very specific reason instead of for their annual eye exam.  They come to see me specifically because they have eyelashes that are turned around and are poking their eyes.

What is Trichiasis?

Trichiasis is the medical term for eyelashes that are misdirected or growing in the wrong direction.  It's a problem that can be annoying at best, is usually painful, and can lead to devastating eye infections in the worst cases.  

When eyelashes grow inward or towards the eye, they ca...

Have you ever suspected that you had Demodex mites in your eyelashes?

If you suspect that you have them you may feel an itchiness at the base of your lashes.  Your eyes may also be red, especially around the rim of your lids.  Sometimes, the lids can be irritated and crusty.

How Do You Treat Demodex Blepharitis?

If you suspect that you have a Demodex infection, see your eye doctor. Now's the time and don't put it off another day.  The best way to resolve this type of infection is with an in-office treatment for Demodex blepharitis.

In my office, I offer two different treatments. The first is Zocukit.  I use this as an initial treatment and for more advanced cases.  Zocukit involves using a very high strength version of Zocular gel on the lids and lashes.  I scrub the gel on the lashes...