Demodex mites were discovered in 1841 and are tiny little microscopic mites which live all over our bodies… all of us. This may seem gross but it’s not, it’s just part of our evolution and part of life. We never see them or know they are there. They eat our dead skin cells and for most of us never cause a problem. Many years ago, scientists discovered a connection between rosaceans and a higher population of demodex mites on their faces. There is also research which shows an increase in demodex mite population on acne skin as well. Now they don’t know for sure if the mites are causing the rosacea or if the mites are there because of the rosacea, but either way, if you have Subtype II with red marks, papules, pustules, and enlarged pores, chances are you would improve tremendously by controlling the mite population on your face.
While many people, including myself, have success addressing the demodex mite population on their faces, there are dermatologists and medical doctors who don’t believe there is any correlation between rosacea and demodex mites. Unfortunately this leaves many people struggling for a solution, when it could be very easy. Please keep in mind that ANY demodex mite treatment works by killing the population of mites, and this may cause your rosacea to get worse before it gets better. (This did not happen to me.) Many people give up before giving the treatment a chance to work because if they see worsening at all, they panic and stop.
Some signs of a demodex mite reaction are red dots or bumps on your cheeks upon waking, sandpaper feel to your skin, and Type II (papules and pustules.) Also ocular rosacea and cycles of worsening symptoms are signs you may do well with a natural demodex mite treatment.
The current treatment for demodex mites is prescription Soolantra which is usually very effective. There are also natural alternative options which must be used carefully, as certain skin types will react differently to different products.
Ultimately, it would be most effective to simultaneously address both internal inflammatory issues as well as demodex mites topically. Eventually a person with rosacea would like to get to a place where they no longer need a demodex mite treatment because they are no longer reacting to mites. (This was the case for me.) If you choose to only use a topical demodex mite treatment, you will likely improve the texture and pustules on your skin, but will not see a significant change in the redness or flushing. Addressing internal inflammation through dietary changes and cleanses will be the most effective long-term option for controlling both rosacea and demodex mites.
Healing Rosacea Naturally 