You have tiny maggot like beings in your eyelashes that feed off your skins naturals juices

You Have Tiny Maggot-Like Beings in Your Eyelashes That Feed Off Your Skin’s Natural Juices

Have you ever thought about what lives in your eyelashes? Well, brace yourself because the truth might make you squirm. It turns out that you have tiny maggot-like beings called Demodex living in the follicles of your eyelashes, feeding off your skin’s natural juices. Yes, you read that right!

These microscopic creatures, belonging to the genus Demodex, are arachnids, just like spiders and ticks. They have elongated bodies with short, stubby legs and are transparent, making them almost invisible to the naked eye. While they are found in different areas of the body, including the forehead and cheeks, they are most commonly found in the follicles of the eyelashes.

But why are they there, and what purpose do they serve? Demodex mites feed on the sebum, or oil, produced by your skin and the dead skin cells around your eyelash area. They live their entire lives in and around your hair follicles, occasionally crawling out at night to mate- which is why you might experience some itching around your eyes.

While having these microscopic creatures in your eyelashes may sound unsettling, they are a natural part of your body’s ecosystem. They are present on almost every adult’s skin, although the population density may vary. The number of Demodex mites can increase due to factors such as poor hygiene, excessive oil production, immune system deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances. However, they are generally harmless and do not cause any noticeable symptoms unless their population becomes excessive.

Demodex mites are most commonly associated with two species: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. D. folliculorum are typically found in the hair follicles, while D. brevis reside in the oil glands connected to these follicles. Although they are often present in small numbers and go unnoticed, populations can escalate under certain circumstances, leading to skin and eyelash problems.

Excessive Demodex mite populations can cause conditions such as blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, and demodicosis, a skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and flaky skin. These conditions can be uncomfortable and may require medical attention. If you suspect an issue, make sure to consult with a dermatologist or an eye care specialist who can provide appropriate treatment.

To keep Demodex mites in check, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices. Regularly washing your face and eyelids with a mild cleanser can help remove excess oils and dead skin cells, minimizing their food source. Avoiding the sharing of makeup and makeup tools can also reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Additionally, if you wear contact lenses, make sure to follow proper disinfection and hygiene protocols.

While Demodex mites have been a topic of interest in recent years, further research is still needed to fully understand their impact on our health. However, it is important to note that having Demodex mites in your eyelashes is a common occurrence and does not indicate poor hygiene or an unhealthy lifestyle. So, don’t fret about these teeny-tiny creatures; they are just a part of the natural world that exists on and within us.

Source: ThoughtCo