All 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 link Demodex mites to worsening Rosacea symptoms. In this article, we delve deeper into the world of two closely related mites: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis , and their impact on Rosacea. We’ll also briefly discuss the latest treatment methods and prevention strategies.

The Two Demodex Mites and Rosacea: An Underlying Connection

The Demodex folliculorum mite, commonly known as the skin mite, lives in hair follicles and sebaceous glands and is mainly 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. The Demodex brevis mite, located deeper in the skin, contributes to inflammation and can worsen the condition.

Rosacea Treatment: Breakthroughs and Innovations

If you suffer from inflamed and irritated eyes and nothing seems to help, 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 containing Lotilaner is sold under the brand name Xdemvy and was approved as a medication 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 a growing understanding of the role of Demodex mites in Rosacea, researchers continue to develop new treatments. Acaricides, in addition to traditional medications and creams, have shown 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 you start taking medication - via your GP - it is advisable to visit a skin therapist. The skin therapist knows a lot about Rosacea and is aware of the latest developments. While Tea Tree oil and improved eyelid hygiene are often recommended on the internet as home remedies against Demodex mites, caution is advised. Because Tea Tree oil is irritating, especially for sensitive skin. But a balanced skin care routine as part of medical advice based on the latest insights can be your key to controlling your Rosacea symptoms.

The role of Demodex mites in Rosacea is still a topic of research and debate among dermatologists and researchers. Some studies suggest a correlation between higher densities of Demodex mites on the skin and symptoms of Rosacea, especially in the forms of Rosacea that are characterized by pimples and bumps. These studies imply that the mites or the bacteria that carry the mites may 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 mites may be present in increased 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 Rosacea.

Discover how Medicadermis uses light and laser therapy for effective Rosacea treatment

In the fight against Rosacea, in addition to a balanced skincare routine, finding the right treatment is essential. Medicadermis offers medical light and laser therapies, supplemented with expert personal skin advice, to support you in managing your Rosacea symptoms. We focus on reducing inflammation, minimizing redness and improving your overall skin health. With our extensive treatment options, Medicadermis is ready to answer your skin question. But we understand that all the choices we offer online can be difficult. And that you sometimes need advice in addition to the information we share online. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation in the Medicadermis Skin Therapy practice with our skin therapist. But an accessible contact in the form of a free video consultation is of course also possible. Discover which treatment best suits your needs. Get compliments with a clear, even and firm skin . Enjoy a minimal recovery time with sustainable results.

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.