NRS: Mites can mimic rosacea signs

[David Pascoe]

Reaction to Mites May Mimic Rosacea Signs

Some patients who have red scaly faces may in reality have an increased reaction to the Demodex mite rather than rosacea, according to Dr. Joseph Bikowski, clinical assistant professor of dermatology, Ohio State University.

Dr. Bikowski noted that he has treated more than 100 patients with this condition, which involved reaction to these microscopic mites that are normal inhabitants of human skin. In these cases, he reported that patients treated with a topical medication for Demodex cleared within two to four weeks and remained clear for one to two years.

"Individuals with red scaly skin may have rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or both, but another possibility is an increased reaction to Demodex," he said.

This is a quote from the NRS's Rosacea Review. If you have scales along with your regular rosacea symptoms (i.e. redness, papules, pustules, swelling) then you should investigate the possibility of seborrheic dermatitis or demodex mites contributing to your symptoms.

[Mike T]

Can this demodex survive years of daily cleansing and moisturising on the face?

[David Pascoe]

Yes the mites are a normal inhabitant of the skin and cleansing and moisturizing won't eradicate them.

[davem81]

Sounds good. What topical medication is being referred to in this article?

[David Pascoe]

Though the article didn't mention them by name, it is likely to be topical ivermectin or permethrin. Both of these should only be used with the support of your doctor though.

[davem81]

David,

Sorry if you've answered this before, but could you elaborate a little about Ivermectin and permethrin? I have recently seen a new dermatologist. He refused me Ivermectin, but has prescribed topical permethrin 1% - but he made it clear it was an 'at your own risk' arrangement. I haven't yet applied it as I'm nervous about a reaction, but I'm very keen on exploring the demodex theory further.

Any further info or references would be very much appreciated!

[milkmaid]

I stopped using rx's about 4 yrs ago. An allergist I've gone to did give me the ivermectin pill to try and I immediately cleared but it wasn't something I could continue to take. I would be interested in trying a topical of it though. I have tried the permethrin with no results. I didn't like the fact that it lowers the bodies immune respone (or something like that), I just didn't like the side effects. I can't figure out if I can put on my posts what works for me so I'll just tell you here.

Asprin 2-4/day, and I would never reccomend that to anyone and am in no way a medical pro. It just stops the inflamation for me. (Tried tylenol and advil with no help).
Used Pyretine-6 and XR for about 2yrs with decent results.
I now daily use a mild cleanser, was using an organic tea trea oil cleanser but lately ran out and have been using the cleansers that come with the Nia-24 starter or sample pack (something like that).
I use Cerave after washing and drying my face-so it doesn't get watered down. After about 2-10mins, I use the Nia cream (can't remember what it's called right now), or sometimes use the sunscrean.
Then I use a really nice makeup-I also can't remember what it's called right now, but it's very light compared to what I used to have to use.

The redness is still there, sometimes worse, sometimes better, but I can say for at least a year I have been clear of the big p&p's and the asprin definately controls the swelling in my face. I haven't reacted immediatley from anything for a long time. I have come a long way, but having the skin barrier repaired has made a huge difference. I am at this point considering some of the peptides or maybe this ivermectin topical might be helpfull. Good luck all, and thanks for the post.

[David Pascoe]

David,

Sorry if you've answered this before, but could you elaborate a little about Ivermectin and permethrin? I have recently seen a new dermatologist. He refused me Ivermectin, but has prescribed topical permethrin 1% - but he made it clear it was an 'at your own risk' arrangement. I haven't yet applied it as I'm nervous about a reaction, but I'm very keen on exploring the demodex theory further.

Any further info or references would be very much appreciated!

The usage of ivermectin and permethrin to treat mites is not controversial per se, but their correct and safe use topically and orally in humans is not well documented. Your dermatologist is cautious because there is a potential for a bad reaction.

There is a lot of interest in demodex mites, their eradication, their overgrowth, and their possible link to rosacea symptoms.

You will find a lot of pages on the net where people are experimenting themselves. I would personally err on the conservative side and try to find a doctor who will support you trying these anti-demodex treatments. That way you will sure that you have good medical information rather than just internet anecdotes.

davidp.