Face mites, also known as demodex mites, are tiny eight-legged parasites that live in the hair follicles and oil glands of the skin. While they are a normal part of skin flora, an overgrowth of face mites can lead to symptoms like itchy skin, redness, and rashes. This condition is known as demodectic mange or demodicosis. Many people wonder if Vaseline (petroleum jelly) can help treat an infestation of face mites. Here is a comprehensive look at the evidence.
What are face mites?
Face mites, or demodex mites, are microscopic arachnids that are related to spiders and ticks. There are over 100 species of demodex mites, but only two live on humans: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis.
- D. folliculorum live in the hair follicles mainly on the face, forehead, cheeks, nose, and eyelashes.
- D. brevis live in the sebaceous glands of the skin and are found mostly on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and eyes.
These mites eat skin cells and oils found deep within hair follicles. They are usually harmless and found on the skin of most adults. Having a small number of face mites is normal. However, if their population grows out of control, they can cause discomfort and skin issues.
Signs and symptoms of a face mite infestation
When face mite populations grow unchecked, they can cause a condition called demodectic mange or demodicosis. Symptoms include:
- Itchy skin, especially around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, and nose
- Redness and inflammation
- Rashes, pimples, or pustules
- Dry, scaly skin
- Hair loss
- Crusting or scabbing around hair follicles
In severe cases, rosacea-like symptoms may develop including redness, swelling, and acne. Blepharitis, or eyelid inflammation, is also common with a face mite infestation around the eyes. Demodicosis usually requires treatment as the mites will not go away on their own.
Does Vaseline help treat face mites?
Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is an ointment made from mineral oils and waxes. It helps moisturize and soften dry skin. Many people wonder if applying Vaseline can help treat facial demodicosis by suffocating or trapping the mites.
Unfortunately, there is no evidence that Vaseline is an effective treatment for face mites. Since the mites live deep inside hair follicles and oil glands, Vaseline cannot reach them. The ointment may help temporarily moisturize irritated skin caused by the mites, but it does not kill face mites or cure an infestation.
Why Vaseline does not work
Here are some reasons why using Vaseline does not help cure a face mite infestation:
- Does not suffocate mites – Vaseline cannot penetrate deep into hair follicles so it cannot smother the mites.
- Does not trap mites – Mites remain mobile and Vaseline cannot immobilize them.
- Does not have miticidal properties – Vaseline does not kill mites.
- Only treats symptoms – While it may soothe dry, itchy skin, it does not address the root cause.
Overall, Vaseline is not an effective treatment for eliminating face mites. The mites will continue to thrive and reproduce even with regular Vaseline use.
Evidence for Vaseline and face mites
There are currently no scientific studies investigating the efficacy of Vaseline for treating demodex mites. However, some dermatologists theorize that occlusive products like Vaseline may help reduce water loss and inflammation of the skin caused by mites. But there is no proof that it kills mites or stops their reproduction.
Anecdotal evidence online shows mixed results. Some people claim that applying Vaseline reduced their symptoms of itchiness and redness caused by face mites. But others found no improvement or reduction in mite populations with continued Vaseline use.
While Vaseline may provide some symptom relief, overall there is no reliable evidence it can successfully treat a face mite infestation. More research is needed on its effects on demodex mites.
Effective treatments for face mites
If you have an overgrowth of face mites, see your dermatologist. They can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe effective treatments. Proven options for eliminating face mites include:
Medicated creams/gels
Prescription topical medications contain compounds that kill mites, such as:
- Ivermectin
- Metronidazole
- Tea tree oil
- Permethrin
- Crotamiton
Research shows topical ivermectin and metronidazole gels work better than placebo for reducing mite populations and improving rosacea symptoms related to mites.
Oral medications
Oral ivermectin tablets may be prescribed for severe, stubborn infestations. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or metronidazole may also help reduce mite populations and inflammation.
In-office treatments
Dermatologists may perform in-office treatments like:
- Ivermectin or permethrin creams
- Cryodestruction therapy to freeze mites
- Laser therapy
- Photodynamic therapy
- Intense pulsed light
These professional treatments are effective at killing mites and provide longer lasting results compared to topical creams alone.
Lifestyle changes
Good hygiene can help prevent mite overgrowth. Tips include:
- Washing face twice daily
- Regularly cleaning pillowcases and towels
- Avoiding sharing makeup or washcloths
- Treating underlying skin conditions like rosacea
Proper face washing and hygiene helps control mite populations and reduce recurrence.
The takeaway
In summary, there is currently no reliable scientific evidence showing Vaseline is an effective treatment for facial demodex mites. While it may provide temporary relief for irritated skin, Vaseline does not kill mites or cure an infestation. Speak to your dermatologist about proven treatments like topical and oral medications, in-office procedures, and proper hygiene to successfully eliminate face mites.