STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- Eyelash extensions, individually bonded with glue to existing eyelashes, can invite mites called Demodex to set up residence in your eyelashes
- Demodex, aka eyelash lice, can cause redness, inflammation, blood shot eyes and blocked oil glands, and can contribute to conditions like blepharitis, blepharoconjunctivitis and blepharokeratitis
- Demodex can be confused with blepharitis, but the treatments are completely different and, unlike blepharitis, Demodex can spread to others
- Demodex is often explained by lack of hygiene since eyelash extension wearers sometimes keep them on for weeks, fearing that washing will cause the lashes to fall out
- To treat a Demodex buildup medical professionals recommend tea tree oil, which patients can use at home