What are the ticks on eyelashes? - briefly
«Ticks» on the eyelashes are microscopic ectoparasites, most commonly Demodex mites or crab lice (Phthirus pubis), that inhabit the hair follicles and associated glands. Infestation can cause itching, redness, and visible moving specks along the lash line.
What are the ticks on eyelashes? - in detail
Ticks observed on the eyelashes are microscopic ectoparasites, most commonly the species Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. These mites inhabit the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the eyelid margin, feeding on cellular debris and secretions. Adult Demodex measures 0.2–0.4 mm, rendering it invisible to the naked eye; detection requires slit‑lamp examination or microscopic analysis of epilated lashes.
Typical signs include:
- Fine, moving specks at the base of lashes
- Irritation, redness, or swelling of the eyelid margin (blepharitis)
- Formation of cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) around each lash
- Excessive tearing or a gritty sensation
Diagnosis proceeds by:
- Collecting several lashes with sterile tweezers
- Placing lashes on a glass slide with a drop of immersion oil
- Examining under high magnification (400–1000×) for characteristic elongated bodies and gnathosoma
Therapeutic options focus on reducing mite density and alleviating inflammation:
- Topical tea‑tree oil formulations (0.5 % concentration) applied to the lid margin twice daily
- Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) for severe infestations, administered as a single dose and repeated after one week if necessary
- Maintenance hygiene: daily lid scrubs with diluted hypochlorous acid or commercial lid‑cleansing pads
Preventive measures include:
- Regular removal of eyelash debris using sterile cotton swabs
- Avoidance of oily cosmetics that may provide a nutrient source for the mites
- Periodic monitoring in individuals with chronic blepharitis or rosacea, conditions associated with higher Demodex colonization
Effective management requires adherence to the prescribed regimen for at least four weeks, after which repeat microscopic assessment confirms eradication. Persistent symptoms warrant re‑evaluation for secondary bacterial infection or alternative dermatologic disorders.