Demodex Mite (Face Mite)

Natural Habitat

They live almost exclusively inside the hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands of humans, particularly on the face (cheeks, nose, forehead, eyelashes).

Diet & Feeding

They feed on sebum (skin cells and oil) produced by the human skin.

Behavior Patterns

These mites are naturally occurring and live on most adult humans. They are nocturnal, emerging from follicles at night to mate on the surface of the skin before returning to lay eggs inside the glands.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless commensals present on nearly everyone. However, an overpopulation can lead to a condition called demodicosis, causing skin irritation, redness, or aggravating rosacea and blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).

Identified on: 2/14/2026