Itchy Eyelids? It Could Be Mites!

One of the microorganisms that can cause eyelid  inflammation, itching and dry eyes is actually a mite. Dr. B can see evidence of these critters using the biomicroscope, and may prescribe an eyelid wipe formulated to kill them. “Tea tree oil acts against bacteria, fungus, mites, and inflammation, all of which may be involved in some forms of blepharitis” said the Ophthalmology Times.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “On average, mites have a three-week lifespan, and hygiene is critical for interrupting their life cycle, said Dr. Tseng. ‘Mites should die out if you don’t let them mate.’ Unfortunately, eyelids are less accessible to thorough cleaning because they are surrounded by the nose, eyebrow, and cheekbone”.

Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic for certain organisms that cause eyelid irritation which can lead to dry eyes and styes. Eyelid wipes formulated with tea tree oil like Quidel lid’n lash wipes provide enough to be effective at removing bacteria, debris and dandruff, yet not too strong to cause irritation. They also provide moisture and skin-firming hyaluronate to tighten eye wrinkles as an added plus.

Another product that Dr. B will prescribe for certain cases is Demodex wipes from Ocusoft, which “adds buckthorn seed oil to the tea tree oil, as both ingredients have been shown to be effective against Demodex mites”, according the the Review of Optometry.

“In addition to its application in various pathologies, tea tree oil also being used quite successfully as a makeup remover and ingredient in face wash and shampoo.” – Covalent Careers.

Eyelid wipes aren’t just for eyelid mites. The tea tree oil and other ingredients in them keeps bacteria, fungus, and other microorganisms in check, as well as possessing inherent anti inflammatory properties.  That’s why Dr. B recommends using an eyelid wipe daily for general eyelid hygiene, to remove make-up and hydrate the skin.

 

Sources:

https://www.ophthalmologytimes.com/ote-articles/tea-tree-oil-proposed-blepharitis

https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/managing-blepharitis-tried-true-new-approaches

https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/getting-a-grip-on-blepharitis

https://covalentcareers.com/resources/the-many-uses-of-tea-tree-oil-for-eyes-and-skin/

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