Demodex Mites May Be Causing Your Eyelid Irritation

Ophthalmologists explain the common condition of Demodex blepharitis and how to prevent it.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Turns out, eye mites referred to as Demodex mites are a common part of the skin's microbiome, but an overgrowth can lead to blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid. Ophthalmologists explain that Demodex mites can thrive when eye makeup is not thoroughly removed, leading to a buildup of debris and oils that create an ideal environment for the mites. While blepharitis caused by Demodex mites is a common condition, there are steps people can take to prevent and treat it.

Why it matters

Demodex blepharitis is a prevalent condition, affecting over 55% of the 45 million adults who visited the eye doctor in 2022. Understanding the causes and preventative measures is important, as Demodex mites can lead to itchy, red, and irritated eyelids if left unchecked.

The details

Demodex mites, including Demodex brevis which lives on the oil glands along the eyelids and Demodex folliculorum which resides in the lash follicles, are a normal part of the skin's microbiome. However, an overgrowth of these mites can trigger inflammation and blepharitis. Factors like aging, rosacea, immune changes, and poor eyelid hygiene can contribute to Demodex mite overgrowth. Heavy eye makeup that is not thoroughly removed can also trap debris and oils, creating an ideal environment for the mites to thrive.

  • According to a 2022 study, 25 million of the 45 million adults who visited the eye doctor that year were diagnosed with Demodex blepharitis.

The players

Diane Hilal-Campo, MD

A board-certified ophthalmologist in Oakland, New Jersey.

Ashley Brissette, MD

An ophthalmologist in New York City who also works with Clinique.

Balvinder Bharj, OD

An optometrist in Jersey City.

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What they’re saying

“By the age of about 60, 100% of adults have had Demodex on their face.”

— Diane Hilal-Campo, MD, Board-certified ophthalmologist

“Demodex mites carry bacteria on their surface and within their digestive tract as they feed off the bacteria on the eyelids and lashes. When mite numbers increase, bacterial load increases as well, which can trigger inflammation of the eyelids and ocular surface.”

— Ashley Brissette, MD, Ophthalmologist

“Heavy eye makeup, especially when not thoroughly removed, can trap debris and oils at the lash base, while shared cosmetics, poor makeup brush hygiene, or infrequent replacement of mascara can also introduce additional bacteria and disrupt the natural balance.”

— Ashley Brissette, MD, Ophthalmologist

The takeaway

While Demodex mites are a common and normal part of the skin's microbiome, an overgrowth can lead to irritated, itchy eyelids. Proper eyelid hygiene, including thoroughly removing eye makeup, can help prevent Demodex blepharitis and maintain the delicate balance of the eye's ecosystem.