Everything about Rosacea and the role of Demodex mites: symptoms and treatments

Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by redness, pimples, and visible blood vessels, primarily on the face. Studies establish a link between Demodex mites and the worsening of Rosacea symptoms. In this article, we delve deeper into the world of two closely related mites: the Demodex folliculorum and the Demodex brevis and their impact on Rosacea. The latest treatment methods and prevention strategies are also briefly discussed.

The two Demodex mites and Rosacea: An underlying connection

The Demodex folliculorum, The mite, commonly known as the skin mite, is found in hair follicles and sebaceous glands and is primarily found around the eyes and on the face. An overpopulation of this mite is often associated with eye inflammation (Demodex blepharitis) and the development of rosacea symptoms such as redness, itching, and pimples. Demodex brevis Mites, located deeper in the skin, contribute to inflammation and can worsen the condition.

Treatment of Rosacea: breakthrough and innovations

Do you suffer a lot from inflamed and irritated eyes and does nothing seem to help? Then there is a new method. Recent research has shown that Lotilaner Ophthalmic Solution is a promising treatment for Rosacea-related eye inflammation. The eye drop solution with Lotilaner is sold under the brand name Xdemvy sold and was approved as a medicine by the US FDA in July 2023. Interestingly, Lotilaner is also used for pets as a parasiticide to combat fleas and ticks and is therefore also effective against skin mites.

Future of Rosacea Treatments

With growing insight into the role of Demodex mites in Rosacea, researchers continue to develop new treatments. Acaricides, alongside traditional medication and creams, are now showing good results in reducing inflammation. Skin condition can also improve significantly after treatments with both IPL and laser therapy.

Natural remedy and preventive care

So, before resorting to medication via your GP, it is advisable to visit a skin therapist. The skin therapist knows a lot about Rosacea and is up to date with the latest developments. While Tea Tree oil and improved eyelid hygiene are often recommended online as home remedies for Demodex mites, caution is advised. This is because Tea Tree oil is irritating, especially to sensitive skin. However, a balanced skincare routine as part of medical advice based on the latest insights can be the key to managing your Rosacea symptoms.

The role of Demodex mites in Rosacea is still a subject of research and discussion among dermatologists and researchers. Some studies suggest a correlation between higher densities of Demodex mites on the skin and the symptoms of Rosacea, particularly in forms of Rosacea characterized by pimples and bumps. These studies imply that the mites or the bacteria carrying the mites can trigger an inflammatory response that contributes to the symptoms of Rosacea. On the other hand, there are also studies that find no convincing evidence that the presence of Demodex mites is a direct cause of Rosacea. This means that while Demodex may be present in elevated numbers in people with Rosacea, they are not necessarily the underlying cause of the condition. It may be that Rosacea makes the skin more susceptible to a higher population of these mites, rather than the mites causing the rosacea.

In practice, I see that rosacea rarely has a single clear cause and often requires a targeted, personalized approach. You can read more about how I approach this on the page about rosacea treatment in The Hague.

Treatment of rosacea with light and laser therapy

When treating rosacea, it is important to look beyond just the visible redness. In addition to a balanced skincare routine, light and laser therapy can also play a valuable role in reducing inflammation and vascular reactivity.

At Medikadermis, this treatment is always tailored to the individual skin. Factors such as sensitivity, skin barrier, and the type of rosacea are taken into account, because no two skins react the same way.

For those who wish to delve deeper into the possibilities of a rosacea treatment in The Hague and the way a skin therapist approaches this, additional information is available on the Medicadermis website.

Because the range of options and information online can sometimes be overwhelming, it can be helpful to look together at what suits your situation. You are therefore welcome for a personal consultation. consultation in practice, or if you find that more accessible, via a video consultation.

In this way, a treatment plan is created that is aimed not only at reducing symptoms but also at sustainably improving skin condition.

Sources and footnotes

• Du, J., Gao, R., & Zhao, J. (2021). The Effect of Volatile Oil from Chinese Mugwort Leaf on Human Demodecid Mites In Vitro. Acta Parasitologica, 66(2), 615-622.
• Forton, FMN (2020). The Pathogenic Role of Demodex Mites in Rosacea: A Potential Therapeutic Target Already in Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea? Dermatol Ther (Heidelb), 10(6), 1229–1253.
• Smith, G., Manzano-Marín, A., Reyes-Prieto, M., Antunes, CSR, Ashworth, V., Goselle, O.N., ... Braig, H.R. (2022). Human Follicular Mites: Ectoparasites Becoming Symbionts. Molecular Biology and Evolution, 39(6), msac125.
• Yeu, E., Wirta, D.L., Karpecki, P., Baba, S.N., & Holdbrook, M. (2023). Lotilaner Ophthalmic Solution, 0.25%, for the Treatment of Demodex Blepharitis: Results of a Prospective, Randomized, Vehicle-Controlled, Double-Masked, Pivotal Trial (Saturn-1). Cornea, 42(4), 435–443.
• Zamecnik, A. (2023, July 26). FDA approves first-ever therapy for Demodex blepharitis. GlobalData's Pharma Intelligence Center.