What Is Demodex in the Eyes?
Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in hair follicles – including your eyelashes. Most people carry small amounts of Demodex without issue, but when their population grows excessively, it can trigger itchiness, tearing, redness, burning, and a sensation of something in the eye. A classic sign of Demodex infestation is oily dandruff at the base of the lashes.
How Does Demodex Affect the Ocular Surface?
An overgrowth of Demodex on the eyelids can disrupt tear film stability and worsen dry eye symptoms. In more severe cases, it can lead to chronic blepharitis and even corneal abrasions. Treating Demodex requires a comprehensive understanding of the ocular surface—not just targeting the mite but restoring the eye’s moisture balance.
When Should You Get Checked?
If you’re experiencing burning, itching, light sensitivity, or you often wake up with inflamed or sticky eyelids, don’t rush to blame allergies or fatigue. It could be Demodex. Diagnosis typically involves microscopic examination of your lashes, and at M’Eye Clinic, we offer professional testing along with a personalized treatment plan.
The Ideal Solution for Ocular Surface Issues
When Demodex disrupts the tear film, wipes alone aren’t enough. Treatment should include a solution that stabilizes eye moisture. One of the most effective tools is scleral lenses, which maintain a constant fluid reservoir between the lens and cornea—reducing friction, shielding against environmental irritants, and supporting corneal recovery.
However, Demodex can interfere with any contact lens, including scleral lenses. Sometimes patients struggle with lenses not because of the lenses themselves, but because of underlying Demodex issues.
Common Treatments for Demodex
- Special cleansing wipes for eyelid hygiene (with proper guidance)
- Non-oily artificial tears to restore tear film balance
- Prescription medications such as antiparasitic drops or antibiotics
- New topical solutions designed specifically for Demodex
At M’Eye Clinic, we work closely with cornea specialists to provide the most effective approach for each patient.
Why Choose M’Eye Clinic?
We don’t treat Demodex as a cosmetic issue. We see it as a potential root cause of vision problems. That’s why we offer a holistic treatment approach, combining:
- Professional eyelid cleaning
- Technological solutions like IPL therapy
- Anti-inflammatory treatments
- Advanced solutions for chronic or vision-threatening symptoms
Our goal is to protect your eye health and ensure your continued comfort with contact lenses—even in challenging cases.
Are Scleral Lenses Still Suitable in These Cases?
Absolutely. Especially when chronic dry eye or corneal damage is involved, scleral lenses can offer a protective and healing environment that helps restore comfort and vision quality.
For those using scleral lenses, one common question is:
How long should you wear scleral lenses each day?
Proper guidance is essential to avoid worsening symptoms and to get the most from your lenses.
Are They Expensive?
Many patients ask about the cost of scleral lenses. While they are an investment, when fitted properly—and combined with effective Demodex treatment—they often lead to significant improvement in quality of life and reduce the need for repeated doctor visits or ineffective treatments.
FAQ – Demodex and Your Eyes
Is Demodex contagious?
Not directly—but sharing eye makeup or poor hygiene can increase the risk of spread.
What’s the difference between regular blepharitis and Demodex-related inflammation?
Demodex blepharitis often presents with oily dandruff at lash roots and morning itching. Demodex is a subtype of blepharitis, but requires a more targeted approach.
Can Demodex be fully eliminated?
Not necessarily—but symptoms can be controlled long-term. Like skin flora, the goal is often balance, not total elimination. Ongoing management may be necessary depending on your case.
What’s the most accurate way to diagnose Demodex?
A microscopic eyelash exam, combined with symptom history and treatment response.
In Conclusion
Demodex is not a life sentence, but it does require precise care. At M’Eye Clinic, we combine advanced diagnostics, personalized treatments, and years of clinical expertise. If you suffer from blepharitis, constant itching, dry eyes, or unexplained eye fatigue—Demodex might be the cause.
Don’t wait—get clarity today.
