What is the Demodex Mite?
The demodex mite is a very small arthropod which lives in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of many animals. You may know demodex mites as “eyebrow mites,” in a reference to one of their favorite hang-outs. Chances are very high that you are hosting a few demodex mites right now, along with a host of other organisms which feed on your sloughed skin, hair, and other discards from your body. As a general rule, these mites do not cause any problems, but when they proliferate, it can become an issue. Two species of demodex mites are commonly found on humans: Demodex folliculorum and D. brevis. These mites are also often found on dogs, in which case the species is usually D. canis. Demodex mites are classified as parasites, unable to survive away from their hosts, and they can jump to new hosts through physical contact with infested areas. They feed on skin cells and oils found near the skin, anchoring themselves in place. Along with other organisms which call your skin home, demodex
The demodex mite is a very small arthropod which lives in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of many animals. You may know demodex mites as “eyebrow mites,” in a reference to one of their favorite hang-outs. Chances are very high that you are hosting a few demodex mites right now, along with a host of other organisms which feed on your sloughed skin, hair, and other discards from your body. As a general rule, these mites do not cause any problems, but when they proliferate, it can become an issue.
