How to treat a subcutaneous mite on the face? - briefly
Effective management includes topical acaricidal therapy (e.g., 5 % permethrin cream applied once daily for seven days) combined with a single oral dose of ivermectin (200 µg/kg). Maintain rigorous skin hygiene and avoid oily cosmetics to reduce the risk of reinfestation.
How to treat a subcutaneous mite on the face? - in detail
Treating a subdermal mite infestation on the face requires a systematic approach that includes accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, and supportive skin care.
First, confirm the presence of the parasite through dermatoscopic examination or skin scraping examined under a microscope. Identification of the mite species guides the choice of therapeutic agents.
Medication options:
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Topical acaricides:
- 5% permethrin cream applied to the affected area once daily for three consecutive days.
- Benzyl benzoate 25% lotion applied for 10 minutes, then washed off; repeat after 48 hours.
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Oral agents (reserved for extensive or refractory cases):
- Ivermectin 200 µg/kg as a single dose; a second dose may be given after 7 days if lesions persist.
- Albendazole 400 mg daily for three days as an alternative when ivermectin is contraindicated.
Adjunctive measures:
- Cleanse the skin with a mild, non‑irritating cleanser twice daily.
- Apply a soothing barrier ointment (e.g., petroleum jelly) after medication to reduce irritation.
- Avoid scratching; use antihistamine tablets (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) to control pruritus.
Follow‑up:
- Re‑examine the skin 7–10 days after treatment completion.
- If live mites are still detectable, repeat the chosen topical regimen or add a single oral dose of ivermectin.
- Document any adverse reactions and adjust therapy accordingly.
Prevention:
- Disinfect personal items (towels, pillowcases) at 60 °C or with a bleach solution.
- Limit close facial contact with infested individuals until treatment is confirmed successful.
A disciplined regimen combining precise identification, evidence‑based pharmacotherapy, and diligent after‑care maximizes cure rates and minimizes recurrence.