What you need to know about mites?
Demodex is a skin disease caused by a microscopic mite called Demodex folliculorum.
The mite nests in the hair follicles of human skin and feeds on dead skin cells. When the body is weakened, the parasite digs into the deeper layers of the skin - this is when the inflammatory process begins.
You may not notice Demodex folliculorum itself - microscopic examination is necessary for diagnosis.
Patients complain of certain symptoms after the mite penetrates the skin.
Symptoms may include:
- itchy or scaly skin
- redness
- increased skin sensitivity
- burning sensation
- skin that feels rough like sandpaper
- eczema
Many people with mites in their skin don’t know it. A small number of mites is unlikely to cause any symptoms.
D. folliculorum naturally occurs in human skin. However, the mites can be spread by contact with someone else who has them.
Though D. folliculorum isn’t an uncommon occurrence, you may be at an increased risk for getting these mites if you have:
- a weakened immune system
- dermatitis
- skin infections
- alopecia
- acne, especially inflammatory types
- rosacea
Source
https://www.healthline.com/health/demodex-folliculorum#risk-factors
