Is your skincare routine attracting microscopic mites that have sex on your face? Expert issues stark warning

YOUR skincare routine could be attracting microscopic creatures that have sex on your face, an expert has warned.

Tiny mites, known as Demodex, feed, mate and lay eggs in the oily folds of the skin – mostly around the noses and eyelashes.

They are said to be particularly common over the Christmas period, when alcohol consumption, stress levels and sudden temperature changes are common.

But one of the biggest risk factors is what we put directly on our skin – think oils, moisturisers and make-up.

Dr Anil Sharma, from Sharma Skin and Hair Surgery in London, says: “During winter, our immune systems can weaken which can result in an increased face mite population.

“They may be feeding off the bacteria and oils left behind by your products.

“This can lead to irritation right after you’ve finished your skincare or make-up routine.”

Nine in 10 people in the UK have at least some Demodex, according to research.

These tiny, eight-legged organisms live in hair follicles and oil glands, primarily on the face, neck and chest.

At just 0.3mm long, they are invisible to the naked eye.

“While generally harmless and helpful for removing dead skin cells, they can irritate the skin when they overpopulate, causing redness, itching or bumps,” Dr Sharma, a former GP, says.

“These mites thrive in oily areas, like the T-zone and hair follicles.

“With a two-week lifespan, they can be managed at home through good skincare and medical guidance if needed.”

There are two main types found on humans:

1. Demodex folliculorum – found in small hair follicles like those around the eyelashes, where they will feed on skin cells
2. Demodex brevis – located near oil glands in hair follicles, they will eat sebum produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands, which help protect and moisturise the skin

So how do you know if you have either?

“If you’re noticing persistent roughness, flaky or scaly skin, itchiness, or unexpected redness, these could be signs of Demodex folliculorum overpopulation,” Dr Sharma says.

“The presence of inflamed bumps or foul resembling whiteheads, as well as symptoms like burning, sensitivity, or even eczema, also point to an excess of these mites.

“In cases where the mites are affecting your eyes, you might develop blepharitis irritation of the eyelids, along with itching or even a loss of eyelashes.”

Both types are more active at night, emerging to feed, mate and lay eggs.

But the signs of Demodex brevis overgrowth are a little different.

“The symptoms often mirror those of Demodex folliculorum but tend to extend beyond the face, sometimes affecting the neck and chest,” the expert says.

“Awareness of these differences can help in identifying which species may be causing irritation.”

While these parasites typically live harmlessly on most people’s skin, there are steps you can take to reduce their numbers, even if you don’t have any symptoms

Dr Anil Sharma

It’s important to remember that Demodex mites, which live for about a fortnight so deep in the pores they can’t simply be washed out, are also highly contagious and can transfer between people, he adds.

“Male and female mites typically mate within the openings of hair follicles, where they lay eggs inside the follicles and oil glands,” Dr Sharma says.

“The larvae hatch in three to four days and mature into adults within a week. They have an overall lifespan of about two weeks.

“These mites emerge at night to feed on dead skin cells before returning to lay eggs.

“When they die, they decompose within the hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

“Demodex mites are contagious, transferring from person to person through contact with hair, eyebrows, or oil glands on the skin.”

Thankfully, they can be treated.

“If you’re experiencing persistent skin irritation, a rosacea flare-up, or ongoing blepharitis, it’s best to consult a doctor,” Dr Sharma says.

“The most commonly prescribed treatment is metronidazole, a topical medication.

“Other options include permethrin, benzyl benzoate, crotamiton, lindane, sulphur products, ivermectin, salicylic acid, selenium sulphide, and pulsed dye laser treatments, but speak to an expert.”

He adds: “If your blepharitis is linked to Demodex mites, your doctor may also recommend daily cleansing of the eye area with warm water.

“Warm compresses can also help to reduce swelling, and your doctor may also exfoliate your eyelids to alleviate discomfort.

“Medicated ointments can help prevent the spread of mites from your eyelashes.

“While some people use tea tree oil as a home remedy, its effectiveness is uncertain, and it can irritate the eyes.”

It’s also worth taking a look at your make-up, skincare and bedding, as these can all exacerbate the issue.

“While these parasites typically live harmlessly on most people’s skin, there are steps you can take to reduce their numbers, even if you don’t have any symptoms,” Dr Sharma says.

How to prevent Demodex mites

To reduce irritation and keep mites in check, you should:

1. Wash your face twice a day

“First, keep your skin clean by washing your face twice a day,” Dr Sharma says.

“Control oil production on your face, and think about adding sulphur to your cleansing routine or incorporating salicylic acid.

“It’s important to avoid harsh scrubs, cleanse the area between your eyebrows, and thoroughly clean your eyelids.”

2. Avoid thick, greasy products

And choose your moisturising products wisely.

“Avoid greasy products that can add extra oil or clog your pores, and be sure to exfoliate regularly,” he adds.

3. Keep sheets and pillowcases clean

“Additionally, make sure to wash your sheets and pillowcases often,” the expert says.

“You could even consider using silk pillowcases, which can help prevent the spread of microbes.”

4. Check for allergies

It is also a good idea to confirm you’re not actually allergic to any ingredients, Dr Sharma adds.

“If you suspect an allergy, start by patch testing,” he says.

“Apply a small amount of the product on a discreet area, like behind your ear or on the inner arm, then wait 24 to 48 hours to see if any reaction occurs.

“If your skin becomes irritated or red, it’s best to avoid that product.

“It’s also helpful to review the ingredients list for common allergens like fragrances, dyes, or preservatives, which often trigger reactions.”

5. Clean your make-up brushes often

When was the last time you washed your make-up brushes?

According to Dr Sharma, you should try to do it before each use.

“But really, I recommend washing your brushes at least once a week,” he adds.

“A gentle cleanser like baby shampoo or a brush-specific cleanser works well.

“To clean, run the bristles under lukewarm water, apply the cleanser, and gently massage it through the brush to lift away oils and buildup.

“Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, then reshape and lay the brushes flat on a towel to dry.

“Avoid standing them upright when wet, as water can seep into the handle and damage the bristles.”

6. Don’t share

As mites can spread very easily, you should keep your mascara to yourself.

“Make sure you discard old make-up and avoid sharing cosmetics with others,” Dr Sharma says.

That includes eye, face and lip products, as well as towels!

7. Prep your skin with hypochlorous

“Prep your skin by cleansing with a hypochlorous acid spray,” Dr Sharma says.

“This helps hydrate, reduce irritation, and limit the buildup that mites thrive on, keeping their population in a healthy balance.”

8. Monitor symptoms

“Finally, keep an eye out for redness in the centre of your face, and monitor any itching or scaling,” the skincare expert says.

“If you notice persistent issues, consult a dermatologist, especially if you have an underlying condition.”

He added that various factors can influence Demodex mite activity.

“Certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, can create an environment that promotes mite proliferation,” he adds.

“Additionally, individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV or AIDS, are at a higher risk of developing a Demodex infestation.

“Medications that suppress the immune system, including immunosuppression and chemotherapy, can also increase susceptibility.

“The skin’s phototype plays a role in creating an environment conducive to mites, as can exposure to sunlight.

“Lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and smoking can further encourage mite growth.

“Moreover, stress is another factor that may lead to an increase in mite activity.

“Interestingly, habits like consuming hot beverages or spicy foods and experiencing abrupt temperature changes can also create a more favourable environment for these mites.

“Limiting your exposure to these factors can help individuals take proactive steps in managing and preventing Demodex infestations.”