The demodex mite is a very small arthropod which lives in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of many animals. You may know demodex mites as “eyebrow mites,” in a reference to one of their favorite hang-outs. Chances are very high that you are hosting a few demodex mites right now, along with a host of other organisms which feed on your sloughed skin, hair, and other discards from your body. As a general rule, these mites do not cause any problems, but when they proliferate, it can become an issue.

Two species of demodex mites are commonly found on humans: Demodex folliculorum and D. brevis. These mites are also often found on dogs, in which case the species is usually D. canis. Demodex mites are classified as parasites, unable to survive away from their hosts, and they can jump to new hosts through physical contact with infested areas. They feed on skin cells and oils found near the skin, anchoring themselves in place.

Along with other organisms which call your skin home, demodex mites can actually be beneficial. They help to process waste materials from your body, keeping things more tidy and sometimes reducing the risk of infections and other health problems as a result of accumulated waste. However, in some circumstances, the demodex mite can proliferate, causing skin rashes, skin sloughing, and hair loss. The mites have also been linked with acne, with some doctors suggesting that a profusion of the mites can clog the pores.

In dogs, demodectic mange can be a very serious condition, requiring prompt medical treatment. Both humans and dogs have a number of options when it comes to treating conditions related to the demodex mite. Medications can be used to kill the mites themselves, typically through topical application, while creams can sooth inflamed, irritated skin which has responded to an infestation of the demodex mite. Some home remedies recommend covering the area with oil or other substances to essentially suffocate the mites; this is not advised, as this can cause damage to the skin, depending on what is used to cover it. Motor oil, for example, a popular treatment for demodectic mange at one time, can cause serious health problems.

In some cases, the demodex mite can also carry bacteria which can lead to skin infections and other health problems. Since getting rid of the mites is impossible and undesired, the best course of action for avoiding such infections is to keep your skin clean, regularly scrubbing dead skin and excess oils away.