Latest news with #Demodex
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- General
- Daily Mirror
Eight-legged mites live in your eyebrows and can cause serious sight problems
While many of us dream of having fluttering eyelashes and well-shaped eyebrows, there is actually a far more pressing reason to keep on top of your most visible facial follicles. Indeed, few may know that their lashes and brows could well serve as a breeding ground for tiny cigar-shaped arachnids, known as Demodex mites or eyelash mites, that thrive in hair follicles and oil glands, where they feast and flourish on dead skin. Commonly found on a person's eyelids and eyelashes, and elsewhere on the face, these eight-legged parasites cannot be seen with the naked eye and are usually harmless in small numbers. However, should an infestation grow out of control, this can result in issues with your skin and eyesight. So, how do we know when there's an issue? As explained by MedicalNewsToday, given that eyelash mites occur in healthy people, many may not even know that their eyelids are providing food and shelter for a miniature population, with symptoms only arising once an infestation really takes hold. Symptoms may include blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids that can result in itching, burning, dryness, irritation, watering, and blurred vision. Sufferers may also experience the sensation of having heavy eyelids. As well as blepharitis, these mites could result in conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the delicate membrane covering the eyeball, or Keratitis, the inflammation of the cornea. Findings published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology also determined that infestation can result in madarosis, or eyelash loss, due to hair follicles becoming inflamed. According to Healthline, if left untreated, vision problems can occur. You should seek out a doctor if you experience any changes, to rule out any additional causes. Your GP may prescribe a medicated ointment to trap mites to stop further spread, while addressing any underlying skin conditions, including dermatitis, inflammatory acne, and alopecia Some studies show that 50 per cent diluted tea tree oil is effective at banishing mites in the eyelash area and reducing inflammation. You can pick this up over the counter at your local pharmacist; however, do make sure to consult your doctor first before applying this, bearing in mind the sensitivity of the eye area. In order to keep mites at bay, there are a few daily habits you can implement into your existing hygiene routine. Firstly, make sure to avoid sharing mascara or make-up tools, and steer clear of oily or greasy makeup. Make sure to wash your face twice daily with a non-soap cleanser, taking care to gently cleanse the eye area with just water. Periodic exfoliation, thus removing those oh so tempting dead skin cells from the reach of parasites, could also work wonders. Given that Demodex mites are widely underdiagnosed, it can be tricky to know if those around you have them. If you suspect this to be the case, however, do make sure to avoid close contact, as these pests can very easily jump to another hospitable-looking host, should they wish.
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Surgeons' issue serious health warning to those who wash bedding under 60 degrees
An eye surgeon is warning Brits of a huge rise in a health condition that causes your eyes to swell and become inflamed. With nicer weather on the horizon, many of us will be wanting to chuck our bedding out on the line to dry in the warm heat. While washing your bedding is a common occurrence for most people, experts are now saying that Brits should be careful about what heat they are washing their bedding on. Eye surgeons have issued a serious warning to anyone who washes their bedding at a temperature lower than 60 degrees. This is due to a significant rise in cases of demodex blepharitis, which is an eye condition caused by a type of parasite. One surgeon has reported a "huge increase" in cases, which is becoming a massive issue for those living in the UK, reports the Express. As a result, people are being urged to make sure they are washing their bedding at 60 degrees at least Demodox blepharitis is caused by dust mites that enter into a person's eyes at night while they are in bed. This can lead to inflammation, redness and swelling. However, by simply putting your washing on a higher temperature, this condition can easily be prevented. Eye surgeon Julian Stevens said: "This is a massive issue. Me and my colleagues are seeing more and more people at the clinic for demodex and optometrists on the high street are also seeing a huge increase." He believes this increase is due to more people washing their bedding at lower temperatures, thus unknowingly allowing the mites to survive. He added: "And the reason is that, whereas our parents used to wash at 60°C and hotter, everyone's now using low-temperature washes." A study has found that anything above 54 degrees is a "lethal temperature" for the mites, however many people are unaware of this and continue to do their washing at lower temperatures. According to the NHS, blepharitis is a condition that involves the eyelids becoming itchy and swollen. Thankfully it is not often a serious condition and can be treated by washing the eyelids. The symptoms of the condition can include sore and itchy eyelids, a gritty feeling, flakes or crusts at the base of the lashes, and washing up with your eyelids stuck together. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you should clean your eyelids twice a day, reducing to once when the condition lessens. However, the NHS urges that you should persist with cleaning your eyes even when the symptoms subside. On top of this, people are cautioned not to wear contact lenses or use eye makeup, such as mascara and eyeliner, when experiencing symptoms. Healthline states that there are two types of Demodex mites - folliculorum and brevis. The former is more common and they reside in your hair follicles and consume skin cells. Typically found on the face - around the host's eyes - these mites can cause bother to your eyes and eyelashes. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. However, the American Academy of Ophthalmology does state that while it may feel uncomfortable to know these mites are on your skin, the mites have "long been considered a friendly bystander of normal skin". The problems instead begin when they excessively multiply, which the academy says can lead to chronic blepharitis and other eye problems. One treatment for Demodex mites is over-the-counter remedies that include low concentrations of tea tree oil or hypochlorous-based acid, which can come in the form of scrubs, sprays or wipes. However, the Centers for Dry Eye does caution that individuals should always dilute the tea tree oil before use, as well as perform a patch test on a small area of skin. Users should also avoid direct contact with the eye and seek advice from an ophthalmologist. Other advice includes keeping good eyelid hygiene, not sharing personal items, changing your eye makeup regularly, eating a healthy diet and staying hydrated. And above all else, keep your bedding clean.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Invisible parasites roam on your face every night while sleeping. Could they be causing skin problems?
While sleep is often viewed as a peaceful escape from the demands of the day, it's also when an invisible ecosystem on your face springs to life. Every night, microscopic creatures called Demodex mites emerge from your pores. These eight-legged parasites, which reside around the outer part of hair follicles, feed on the oily substances your skin naturally produces. You can't see them or feel them, but nearly every adult human hosts these mites. Measuring just 0.15 to 0.4 millimeters in length — smaller than the tip of a needle — they are a permanent and largely unnoticed presence on our skin. Up to five mites can occupy just one square centimeter of your face. And despite the unsettling thought, experts say their presence is typically harmless. Why They're on Your Skin According to Alejandra Perotti, an associate professor of invertebrate biology at the University of Reading, the mites become most active while you sleep. 'While we are sleeping, they come out and are very happy, mating, visiting relatives, walking on our faces. The moment we wake up, they go back inside the pore,' Perotti said. These mites aren't freeloaders. In fact, they perform a sort of maintenance service by clearing out pore blockages. In return, the human body provides melatonin — a sleep-inducing hormone produced in the skin — which gives the mites the energy they need to survive. Their ability to resist ultraviolet light also helps them thrive, as UV rays typically damage small organisms' DNA. When Problems Arise Though usually harmless, Demodex mites can sometimes cause skin and eye issues, particularly when their population increases uncontrollably. Dr. Richard Locksley, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, explained that overgrowth — a condition known as demodicosis — is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as older adults or those undergoing chemotherapy. In such cases, the body may react to both the mites and the bacteria they carry, leading to inflammation. Dr. Roberto Ricardo-Gonzalez, a dermatologist also at UCSF, noted that this inflammation can appear as rosacea, acne, flaking, or dryness, especially on oily areas of the face like the cheeks and forehead. Doctors can diagnose mite-related conditions by examining skin or eyelash samples under a microscope. Dr. Cory Lappin, an optometrist in Ohio, pointed out that demodex waste and eggs often accumulate at the base of the eyelashes, causing dryness, itching, and even recurring sties in some patients. Reducing the Risk Fortunately, preventing mite overgrowth is often as simple as practicing good hygiene. Experts recommend gently washing the face each night with a cleanser to remove excess oil and debris. It's also advised to remove makeup and false lashes before sleeping to avoid irritation around the eyes. Those with acne-prone skin may benefit from using a topical retinoid once or twice weekly, but moderation is key. Excessive cleansing or skin dryness can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, prompting the mites to multiply. Additionally, a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate sebum production, which acts as food for these parasites. In cases where overgrowth leads to persistent irritation, dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral ivermectin to bring the mite population under control, although total eradication isn't possible. In 2023, the FDA also approved medicated eye drops specifically to treat eyelid inflammation caused by demodex mites. Demodex mites have likely lived on human skin for centuries, passed on shortly after birth through close contact, especially from mothers. Yet, as Perotti's 2022 research suggests, these mites may be undergoing what she describes as 'a long-term evolutionary death.' This means that, while they're still here now, their long-term survival may be uncertain. Despite how strange it may sound, these tiny organisms are just another part of the human body's ecosystem — mostly silent, invisible, and surprisingly useful.
See - Sada Elbalad
16-05-2025
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
The Skin Microbiome: The Invisible Guardian of Skin
Dr. Magdy Badran The skin is not just a protective barrier — it's a dynamic ecosystem and the body's first line of defense against harmful invaders. Living on its surface is a vast, invisible community of microorganisms known as skin microbiome. Far from being harmful, most skin microbes work with our bodies to protect, repair, and regulate. An imbalance in microbiome (dysbiosis) has been linked to various skin disorders. As science continues to uncover the importance of this microbial world, skincare is evolving toward nurturing the microbiome rather than sterilizing it. What Is the Skin Microbiome? The skin microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that naturally inhabit the human skin. These microbes vary depending on the part of the body, the individual, age, sex, lifestyle, environment, and even climate. Some microbes reside in oily regions like the face and back, while others prefer dry or moist areas such as the elbows or armpits. Key Players in the Skin Microbiome Beneficial bacteria – Such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes, which help protect against harmful bacteria and produce antimicrobial substances. Fungi – Primarily from the Malassezia genus, which feed on skin oils and help maintain balance. Viruses and bacteriophages – Infect bacteria and may help regulate bacterial populations. Microscopic mites – Like Demodex, which live in hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Functions of the Skin Microbiome The skin microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining the health and integrity of the skin. It acts as a protective shield by competing with harmful microbes for space and nutrients, thereby preventing infections. Beneficial bacteria on the skin produce antimicrobial substances that deter pathogens. The microbiome also helps regulate the immune system, teaching it to tolerate harmless organisms and respond appropriately to threats. It contributes to maintaining the skin's acidic pH, which is crucial for barrier function. Some microbes promote wound healing by stimulating tissue repair. The microbiome supports hydration by preserving the skin's natural oils. It also plays a role in controlling inflammation and preventing allergic reactions. A balanced microbiome keeps the skin calm and resilient. Overall, it is essential for both physical protection and immune harmony. Factors Affecting Skin Microbiome Health The health the skin microbiome is influenced by several lifestyle and environmental factors. Overuse of antiseptics and harsh soaps can strip away beneficial microbes, weakening the skin's natural defenses. Similarly, both topical and oral antibiotics disrupt microbial diversity, potentially leading to imbalances and overgrowth of harmful organisms. Diet also plays a crucial role—diets high in sugar and unhealthy fats promote inflammation, which negatively impacts the microbiome. Chronic stress alters hormone levels and immune responses, indirectly disturbing microbial stability. Environmental exposures, such as air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, and extreme weather, further affect the skin's microbial composition. Inadequate hygiene or excessive cleanliness can also disturb microbial equilibrium. Skin care products with alcohols and preservatives may be too harsh for the microbiome. Even clothing materials and personal habits, like smoking, can influence microbial health. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is essential to support a healthy and resilient skin microbiome. Acne and the Skin Microbiome Acne is a common skin condition often influenced by imbalances in the skin microbiome. While Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) naturally resides in healthy skin, certain strains can become overactive, triggering inflammation and clogged pores. These harmful strains produce enzymes and inflammatory substances that damage skin tissue and attract immune responses. A disrupted microbiome—often due to harsh skincare products, antibiotics, or hormonal changes—can reduce microbial diversity and promote acne flare-ups. Beneficial microbes that usually keep C. acnes in check may decline, allowing the harmful strains to dominate. Restoring microbial balance through gentle skincare and targeted probiotics is a promising approach. Supporting the skin microbiome may reduce acne severity and improve overall skin health. Eczema and the Skin Microbiome Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is strongly linked to imbalances in the skin microbiome. People with eczema often have reduced microbial diversity and an overgrowth of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that can worsen inflammation and skin barrier damage. This imbalance weakens the skin's defense, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens. The disrupted microbiome also impairs the immune system's ability to regulate inflammation properly. Maintaining or restoring a healthy microbial balance through gentle skincare and probiotic treatments can help reduce eczema flare-ups. Psoriasis and the Skin Microbiome Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with changes in the skin microbiome. Research shows that people with psoriasis often have altered microbial communities, including decreased diversity and an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria. Certain bacteria may trigger or worsen inflammation by interacting with the immune system, contributing to the characteristic redness and scaling. This microbial imbalance can disrupt the skin barrier, making symptoms more severe. Restoring a healthy microbiome through targeted therapies and gentle skincare may help reduce inflammation and support skin healing. Understanding the skin microbiome's role in psoriasis opens new avenues for treatment. Supporting microbial balance is increasingly seen as part of comprehensive psoriasis care. Fungal Infections and the Skin Microbiome Fungal infections occur when there is an overgrowth of certain fungi on the skin, often due to an imbalance in the skin microbiome. The genus Malassezia is a common resident fungus that usually coexists peacefully but can proliferate excessively under certain conditions, causing issues like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Factors such as humidity, weakened immunity, or disruption of bacterial communities can trigger fungal overgrowth. This imbalance disturbs the skin's natural defense, leading to irritation, inflammation, and infection. Maintaining a balanced microbiome through proper hygiene and avoiding harsh antimicrobials helps prevent fungal infections. Sleep and the Skin Microbiome Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy skin microbiome. During deep sleep, the body undergoes repair processes that help restore the skin barrier and balance microbial communities. Poor or insufficient sleep can disrupt immune function, leading to inflammation and an imbalance in skin microbes. This imbalance may increase the risk of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and dryness. Adequate sleep supports the production of antimicrobial peptides, which protect against harmful bacteria. Moreover, good sleep helps regulate stress hormones that otherwise negatively impact the skin microbiome. Prioritizing quality sleep is essential for maintaining skin health and microbial harmony. Water and the Skin Microbiome Water quality and usage significantly affect the skin microbiome. Chlorinated or hard water can disrupt the delicate balance of skin microbes by altering pH levels and stripping natural oils, which serve as nutrients for beneficial bacteria. Overexposure to water—especially hot showers—can damage the skin barrier, leading to dryness and microbial imbalance. Conversely, staying well-hydrated from within supports healthy skin by maintaining elasticity and optimal conditions for microbial life. Polluted or contaminated water may introduce harmful microbes that compete with or kill off protective bacteria. Using filtered or lukewarm water and limiting prolonged exposure helps protect the microbiome. Balanced water practices are key to maintaining skin health and microbial harmony. Tips for a Healthy Skin Microbiome Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome involves gentle and mindful care. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid stripping beneficial microbes. Avoid over-washing, as excessive cleansing can disrupt microbial balance. Incorporate moisturizers that support skin barrier function and provide nutrients for microbes. Limit the use of harsh antiseptics and antibiotics unless medically necessary. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and pollution, which can damage microbial communities. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin health from within. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress negatively affects the microbiome. Lastly, consider using skincare products formulated to nurture beneficial microbes, promoting resilience and skin vitality. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! 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Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Elanco Animal Health Sells Xdemvy Royalties To Blackstone in $295 Million Deal
Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE:ELAN) on Monday announced the sale of certain future tiered royalties and commercial milestones associated with Xdemvy (lotilaner ophthalmic solution) 0.25% for the human health application of lotilaner to Blackstone Life Sciences and Blackstone Credit & Insurance for $295 million in cash. The company will use the proceeds to accelerate debt reduction, positioning Elanco to achieve an expected net leverage ratio of 3.9x to 4.3x adjusted EBITDA by the end of 2025. Also Read: Elanco Animal's Outlook Lags Street Expectations, But Analyst Sees Time For Elanco's Commercial Investment To Payoff Elanco will repay portions of its outstanding term loans on a pro-rata basis, which is expected to reduce interest expense by approximately $10 million, offset by the sale of approximately $10 million of royalties based on Elanco's initial 2025 guidance. In 2019, Elanco exclusively licensed lotilaner to Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:TARS) for exploration as a solution to several unmet human health needs. In 2023, Xdemvy became the first lotilaner-based product approved for human use and the only FDA-approved medicine for Demodex blepharitis, a common eyelid disease in humans caused by Demodex mites. The agreement applies to certain tiered royalties associated with Xdemvy's U.S. net sales from April 2025 through August 2033 and certain commercial milestones. Elanco retains the rights to all royalty payments on net sales outside the U.S. and any future human applications of lotilaner beyond ophthalmic solutions. Elanco Animal Health is scheduled to release its first quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, May 7. Analysts expect adjusted earnings per share of 31 cents and sales of $1.21 billion, as per data from Benzinga Pro. Elanco Health Stock Prediction For 2025 Equity research analysts on and off Wall Street typically use earnings growth and fundamental research as a form of valuation and forecasting. But many in trading turn to technical analysis as a way to form predictive models for share price trajectory. Some investors look to trends to help forecast where they believe a stock could trade at a certain point in the future. Looking at Elanco Animal Health, an investor could make an assessment about a stock's long term prospects using a moving average and trend line. If they believe a stock will remain above the moving average, which many believe is a bullish signal, they can extrapolate that trend into the future using a trend line. For Elanco Animal Health, the 200-day moving average sits at $12.34, according to Benzinga Pro, which is above the current price of $9.75. For more on charts and trend lines, see a description here.
