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Eyelash Mites: How to Get Rid of Eyelash Mites?
WHAT ARE LASH MITES?
Eyelash mites are caused by two types of Demodex mites. The two types are called Demodex folliculorumand Demodex brevis. Both types of mites are microscopic, so you can’t see them with the naked eye. They’re naturally prevalent in your hair follicles, where they feed on dead skin cells.
In most cases, having eyelash mites is nothing to worry about as everyone has a small amount of them. However, they can become problematic in large numbers and an infestation can in fact worsen or cause skin issues. If an individual has an infestation of mites, they will crawl into the hair follicle and feed on the oil in the pore as well as the dead skin cells, which can eventually lead to eyelash loss.
DO EYELASH EXTENSIONS CAUSE LASH MITES?
We’re here to set the record straight! Eyelash extensions do NOT cause lash mites, Lash mites are actually caused by poor hygiene. So, why do people think that lash extensions cause lash mites? Unbelievably, many people still assume that you cannot wash or clean lash extensions as this will cause them to shed, but this is simply not the case. If anything, it’s not cleaning eyelash extensions that will cause the lashes to prematurely shed! This is an outdated misconception because by using a professional lash glue and Superbonder, your clients can swim, shower, and wash their lashes to their heart’s content.
ARE EYELASH MITES HARMFUL?
The good news is that lash mites are generally harmless in small numbers. In fact, most people have a few of these critters in their lash follicles without even realising it. However, in some cases, an overpopulation of lash mites can lead to various issues, such as:
❗Itchiness and Irritation: Excessive lash mite activity can cause itchiness and discomfort, which may lead clients to rub their eyes, potentially damaging their lashes.
❗Redness and Inflammation: An infestation of lash mites can cause redness and inflammation along the lash line, which is not only uncomfortable but can also affect the appearance of lash extensions.
❗Lash Shedding: Lash mites feed on the oils and dead skin cells around the lash follicles. In large numbers, they can contribute to premature lash shedding.
RECOGNISING EYELASH MITE INFESTATIONS
As a Lash Technician, you may be the first to notice signs of lash mites in your clients. Keep an eye out for:
🔺Excessive Lash Shedding: If your client is experiencing more lash shedding than usual, it could be a sign of lash mites. Lash mites can weaken the natural lashes, making them more likely to fall out prematurely.
🔺Persistent itching: Clients complaining of persistent itching around their lash line could be experiencing lash mite-related irritation.
🔺Redness and swelling: Inflamed lash follicles may indicate a lash mite issue.
🔺Visible debris: In some cases, clients might notice tiny white or translucent specks at the base of their lashes – these could be lash mites or their waste.
HOW TO GET RID OF EYELASH MITES？
Now that you know why Lash Technicians should care about lash mites, let’s talk about prevention and management. If you suspect a client has lash mites, it’s important to handle the situation with care and professionalism:
🔸Educate Your Clients: Inform your clients about lash mites, their symptoms, and the importance of proper lash hygiene and aftercare. Knowledge is power, and prevention starts with awareness.
🔸Disposable Lash Tools: Whenever possible, use disposable lash tools and eyelash brushes to minimise the risk of cross-contamination.
🔸Encourage Regular Eyelash Cleansing: Before each lash extension appointment, ensure your clients wash their lashes thoroughly. Recommend lash shampoo and a cleansing eyelash brush to your clients to help them keep their lash follicles clean and reduce the risk of lash mite overgrowth.
🔸Avoid Overuse of Heavy Lash Products: Excessive use of heavy lash serums and oils can create an environment conducive to lash mite infestation. Advise your clients to use such products in moderation.
🔸Practice Good Salon Hygiene: Always maintain impeccable hygiene in your lash studio. Disinfect your lash tools, change disposable items, and wash your hands thoroughly between clients.
🔸Avoid Sharing: Remind your clients not to share makeup, towels, or pillowcases with others to reduce the chances of mite transmission.
🔸Refer to a Professional: Keep an eye out for any signs of lash mites during your eyelash extension appointments. If you suspect an issue or a severe infestation, it’s best to refer your client to a medical professional.
