Demodex Blepharitis

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins, the edges of the eyelid, which causes a range of uncomfortable symptoms including, dryness, itching, red skin, red eyes, tired eyes, and blurred vision. Blepharitis is commonly caused by an infection of the eyelash follicles and is estimated to affect 50% of people, to varying extents.Other causes can be underlying skin conditions such as rosacea or dermatitis.

Demodex blepharitis is a very common sub-type of blepharitis caused by an infestation of the demodex mite.The demodex mites are extremely common and thought to be present in about 20% of people under 20-years-old rising to nearly 100% in people over 70. While they generally cause no problems, but in susceptible people they can cause symptoms of blepharitis.

What can I do to treat it?

For more severe casesthis chronic condition can be difficult to fully control through treatment at home. Our in-practice eyelid cleaning service offers the ultimate deep hygiene clean for eyelids returning them to their best possible condition which in turn makes home treatments more effective for longer.

What is the service?

Think of it like a dental hygienist visit but for the eyelids. Our specialist optometrists use state of the art tools and techniques to remove all crusts, debris and dead skin before unblocking any clogged glands and thoroughly cleansing the lashes and follicles.

What does the service cost?

A one off treatment costs £99 and takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively you can join our Vision+ programme to pay for the ongoing treatment of blepharitis. This includes all your other eye care and regular examinations as well as receiving generous discounts on glasses and contact lenses from £15 per month.