Demodex Mite (Face Mite)

Natural Habitat

Found almost exclusively in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of mammals, including humans, particularly on the face (nose, forehead, cheeks, chin).

Diet & Feeding

They feed on sebum (skin oil) and dead skin cells accumulated within hair follicles.

Behavior Patterns

These mites are nocturnal, often emerging on the skin surface at night to mate before returning to follicles. They spend their entire life cycle (about 14-18 days) on the host.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless commensals present on most adult humans. However, overpopulation can be associated with skin conditions like rosacea, blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), or demodicosis (itching and irritation).

Identified on: 2/26/2026