If you’re a lash extension lover, you already know how vital a consistent eyelash wash routine is. Dirty lashes don’t just affect retention; they can cause blepharitis, styes, conjunctivitis, or even an infestation of lash mites. That’s right! Mites in eyelashes are more common than you think.
Before you panic, take a deep breath. These tiny organisms are a natural part of your body’s microbiome, but when neglected, they can quickly become a problem. Let’s explore what causes them, how to reduce and get rid of eyelash mites, and how the Prolong Lash Cleanser range helps prevent and manage an outbreak.
What Are Lash Mites?
Would you flip out if we told you that microscopic-sized mites live on your lashes? These organisms, called Demodex folliculorum, are invisible to the naked eye and actually serve a function: they feed on dead skin cells and excess oils from your skin.
As UCLA Health explains, “Eyelash mites are a normal part of the body’s microbiome. As long as their numbers stay low, Demodex mites are harmless.”
However, when the balance shifts, due to buildup, makeup residue, or poor lash hygiene, these mites multiply rapidly, leading to irritation and inflammation. That’s when a natural relationship turns into an infestation.
What Are the Symptoms of Lash Mites?
Suppose you’ve ever woken up with itchy eyes or noticed yellowish buildup around your lash line; that might be a sign of mites in eyelashes. Although other symptoms include:
- Redness or irritation around the eyelids.
- Crusty, sticky residue at the lash base.
- Dry or watery eyes.
- Swollen eyelids or a sensation of “something crawling”.
- Sensitivity to light or blurry vision in advanced cases.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “Anywhere from 42% to 81% of people with blepharitis also have an infestation of Demodex mites.” These numbers show just how easily lash mites can thrive when hygiene slips.
How Do You Get Eyelash Mites?
Wondering how do you get eyelash mites? The truth is, everyone has them to some degree. The problem begins when you fail to keep your lash line clean. Here’s what contributes to overgrowth:
- Infrequent cleansing: Not using an eyelash-cleaning solution allows oil, makeup, and skin cells to accumulate, creating a perfect breeding ground for mites.
- Improper lash aftercare: Skipping daily lash washes or using the wrong products can leave behind residue that fuels mite activity.
- Sleeping in makeup: Residual mascara and liner clog follicles, trapping mites and bacteria.
- Dirty pillowcases or lash tools: Mites can transfer from fabric or shared makeup brushes.
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Excess oil production: Oily skin and humid weather promote faster mite reproduction.
During the day, lash mites burrow into follicles; at night, they emerge to feed and reproduce, making consistent cleansing twice daily essential for prevention.
How to Get Rid of Eyelash Mites
The solution is more straightforward (and cleaner) than you think. To eliminate eyelash mites, a combination of good hygiene, the right products, and consistent aftercare is necessary.
Here’s how to reset your lash health:
- Use a professional eyelash cleaning solution: Choose an oil-free, ophthalmologically tested cleanser designed for lash extensions, like the Prolong Lash Cleanser Foaming Pump. This product safely removes oils, dead skin, and residue that mites feed on, without compromising the longevity of your extensions.
- Wash twice daily: Morning and night, gently lather the cleanser with a lash brush along the lash line. Rinse thoroughly with water or saline solution. This twice-daily eyelash wash routine prevents mite reproduction and supports lash retention.
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The Role of Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) in Lash Health: Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) is a naturally occurring antimicrobial compound produced by the body’s white blood cells to fight bacteria and support healing. In lash and eye care, it’s valued for its ability to gently sanitise the eyelid area without causing irritation or affecting eyelash extensions.
HOCl, when used as a fine mist, helps reduce bacteria and debris that can contribute to Demodex (lash mite) activity, while calming inflammation around the lash line. It’s completely safe for daily use, even on sensitive eyes, and offers an added layer of protection between your regular lash cleansing routine and your next lash refill. To find the best optometrist-formulated HOCl spray designed for lash extension wearers, visit Eyethos Beauty.
Maintain lash-safe habits:
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- Wash pillowcases weekly.
- Avoid sharing makeup or brushes.
- Use oil-free eyeliner (like Prolong Lash Oil-Free Eyeliner), which washes off easily with Prolong Lash Clenser.
- Always remove makeup before bed.
What sets Prolong Lash apart is its science-led testing credentials:
Our formula has undergone:
- Ophthalmological and dermatological testing for ocular safety.
- HRIPT (Human Repeat Insult Patch Test) confirms non-irritancy and safety for sensitive skin.
- ISO 17516 compliance verifying microbiological purity.
- FDA and MoCRA compliance, ensuring it meets the highest cosmetic safety standards.
These rigorous tests uphold the brand’s reputation as the world’s most tested lash cleanser, trusted by professionals in over 67 countries.
How Prolong Lash Helps Prevent Lash Mites
Your lash artist is right when they say, "washing your lashes is everything". Prolong Lash offers a range of aftercare products designed to maintain lash health and prevent mite overgrowth:
- Eyelash Extension Cleanser 100ml Foaming Pump: A ready-to-use, gentle foam that thoroughly cleans your lash line.
- Essentials Care Pack: Includes everything you need: foaming pump, cleansing brush, makeup remover cloth, and lash brush.
- Oil-Free Eyeliner: Creates beautifully defined eyes without compromising retention.
Each product in the Prolong Lash range is vegan, cruelty-free, pH-balanced, and ophthalmologically tested, ensuring complete safety and compatibility with lash adhesives and sensitive eyes.
The result? A scientifically validated, globally trusted aftercare system that protects against lash mite overgrowth while maintaining perfect lash retention.
Eyelash mites might sound alarming, but they’re a natural part of your skin’s ecosystem. The key is balance, and the best way to maintain that balance is through consistent, gentle cleansing.
If you can do one thing for your lash health, make it this: wash your lashes daily with a professional-grade eyelash cleaning solution.
Clean lashes are beautiful lashes, free from irritation, buildup, and mite colonization.
Prolong Lash’s proven, tested formulas give both lash artists and lash enthusiasts peace of mind because when it comes to eye safety, Prolong Lash is the world’s most tested and trusted lash cleanser.
