How I Cured My Ocular Rosacea: Banishing Demodex for Radiant, Healthy Skin and Eyes!

How I Cured My Ocular Rosacea: Dr. Tara’s Approach

Remedies for Rosacea aren’t the easiest thing to figure out; there are tons of products on the market (some with insane prices,) but the question is, do they work?

Medical professionals recommend using products that are not only similar to the skin’s natural moisturizers but also something rich in plant oils, antioxidants, and without any alpha-hydroxy acids. ¹

I don’t know about you, but that sounds pretty confusing to me!

Key Points on How I Cured My Ocular Rosacea: 

• Ocular Rosacea is more than just eye irritation – It can be a sign of deeper health issues, often triggered by lifestyle and environmental factors.
• Common symptoms include redness, dryness, burning, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.
• Demodex mites are a major trigger for those with Rosacea, though common and almost everyone has them.
• Treatment options vary, range from natural remedies, like warm compresses and non-toxic skincare, to clinical interventions such as antibiotics or oral medications.
• Gut health and dietary changes play a vital role in controlling inflammation and reducing flare-ups.
• Simple lifestyle changes – Adjusting air quality, skincare, and overall routine can significantly improve symptoms over time.
• Ocular Rosacea can be mistaken for other conditions such as dry eye disease, allergic conjunctivitis, or even reactions to Botox. Professional guidance is recommended.
• You’re not alone—many people have found relief through a combination of care and lifestyle shifts.

Beyond Medications and Quick Fixes

When my ocular rosacea first flared up, my eyes felt dry, itchy, and irritated almost every day. I visited two eye doctors, hoping for answers, but they told me it was just part of getting older or related to acne rosacea on my skin.

They gave me hydrating eye drops, but they didn’t help much. That’s when I realized I needed to dig deeper. As I learned more, I found that triggers—like spicy foods—were quietly making things worse. While medications can help with severe symptoms, real progress came through small, daily changes that kept flare-ups in check and reduced the strain on my body’s blood vessels over time.

It became clear that managing ocular rosacea isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about understanding the root causes and making mindful changes that truly work.

What Exactly are Type 4 Ocular Rosacea Symptoms?

Let’s start at the beginning. What is this exhausting condition that’s been making your eyes so sensitive and scratchy? I’ll break down the basics of Ocular Rosacea, touching on why your eyes are more than just a window to your soul—they’re a window to your health, too.

Ocular Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the eyes that causes redness, dryness, itching, and many other symptoms. It often develops in people who already have Rosacea, but can also be a precursor to facial Rosacea and sometimes even occurs in people independent of other types of Rosacea.

Ocular Rosacea primarily affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50.⁽²⁾ It is more common in people who tend to blush and flush easily.

While red cheeks aren’t a direct symptom of Ocular Rosacea, they are a symptom of the other 3 types of Rosacea.

Symptoms of type 4 Ocular Rosacea:

• Redness
• Dryness
• Itchiness
• Swelling
• Sensitivity
• Sensitivity to light
• Worsening symptoms in the morning
• Worsening symptoms over time (progressive)
• Watering of the eyes
• Gritty or sandy feeling of the eye
• Burning

Can Other Eye or Vision Conditions be Mistaken for Ocular Rosacea?

Ocular Rosacea is often misdiagnosed, or not diagnosed at all because it’s not easy to detect in the optometrist’s office (it’s usually based on symptoms you are telling them, but not necessarily detected in an eye exam.) 

Other conditions that can mimic Ocular Rosacea:

• Dry Eyes
• TED (Thyroid Eye Disease)
• Reaction to Botox
• Lupus Erythematosus
• Herpes Simplex
• Seborrheic Dermatitis
• Pink Eye
• Atopic Dermatitis
• Blepharoconjunctivitis 

Why Do My Eyes Look Like I’ve Cried All Night?

Eyelid Redness & Tears

Ever wake up with your eyes feeling gritty, red, or swollen? These are the symptoms that scream Ocular Rosacea, and if they’re happening to you, it’s time to visit your eye doctor to get a correct diagnosis! Ocular Rosacea can mimic many other conditions so it’s very important that you do not perform any self-help treatments without visiting a professional first! Eyes are not something to fool around with! 

The Usual Suspects:

Factors that Cause Ocular Rosacea

Diving into causes, let’s explore what’s really going on behind your eyes. Is it genetics, environment, or something as tiny as a mite? Understanding the underlying causes of your worsening eye symptoms can help us tackle this problem more effectively.

The exact cause of Ocular Rosacea is yet unknown. It may be due to one or more factors, including: ²

• Genetics
• Environmental factors (smoke, dust, irritants)
• Bacterial involvement
• Blocked glands in the eyelids
• Eyelash Mites (Demodex Mites)

Understanding the Link:

Demodex Mites a Cause for Ocular Symptoms?

Blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid, can often accompany facial Rosacea and the reason is often the same as to why the Rosacea symptoms may be worsening: Demodex Mites. While there are certainly many other causes of Ocular Rosacea besides Demodex Mites, it should be carefully considered.

On a personal note, I started to notice my eyes becoming very dry in the later years of my Rosacea. This was around the time my Rosacea symptoms worsened, but I didn’t make a connection. I went to two different eye doctors complaining of dry eyes, blurry vision, morning redness, swelling, and frequent irritation. Both doctors examined my eyes, prescribed hydrating eye drops, and blamed my symptoms on hormonal changes. That didn’t sound quite right to me, but I dutifully used the prescription… without relief. 

Research Unveiled:

Demodex Folliculorum and Demodex Brevis

When I began my research of Rosacea, I often read about Ocular Rosacea, or redness and irritation of the eyes, which can be associated with Rosacea of the skin. All of the medical websites I read (Healthline, Mayo Clinic, WebMD) said the same things I had always read about Rosacea: no one knows why it happens, and there is no cure.

Luckily, I found information about two types of Demodex Mites—Demodex Folliculorum and Demodex Brevis—that live in the hair follicles and pores of human skin. These mites are particularly fond of eyelashes, and you can have up to 100 mites in a single follicle.

How I Treated My Condition Without Typical Medication

After more research, I found specialized topical products made for eyelashes to reduce the Demodex population and relieve my blepharitis with only natural ingredients. With my new eye doctor’s guidance, I started using an ocular foam nightly on my lids and lashes.

Note: This was a personal recommendation, and I advise consulting your eye doctor before using any eye-care product.

Technically, there is no definitive “cure” for Ocular Rosacea or Rosacea in general. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to manage your symptoms and keep those Rosacea Triggers in check! And if you keep those flare-ups down for a year, maybe you can consider that cured!

Here are some traditional treatment options you may want to discuss with your eye doctor:

• Incorporating steroid eye drops and ointments to mitigate redness and swelling.
• Utilizing antibiotic pills or ointments to address both eye infections and rosacea affecting the skin.
• Implementing artificial tears to maintain eye moisture. (Avoid using eye drops designed for bloodshot eyes as they can exacerbate ocular rosacea symptoms.)
• Engaging in eyelid scrubs to ensure ocular hygiene and prevent infections. Here’s how: Gently clean your eyelids using a washcloth, a and a specialized eyelid cleanser, or diluted baby shampoo with warm water. Additionally, adhere to your doctor’s recommendations regarding warm compress applications to your closed eyes.

But traditional medical treatments aren’t for everyone!

When I made changes to the air quality in my household and began to choose natural detergent and facial products without artificial colors and fragrances, my eyes began to calm down.

Day by day, I saw small improvements. I used the prescribed eye foam each night and also began my whole health journey of focusing on reducing internal inflammation through dietary changes. 

It wasn’t easy but I learned about the connection between Gut Health and Rosacea and made changes to my diet to help manage my Rosacea. The core of my Rosacea Diet is knowing what foods to avoid, and what foods can be replaced with something else.  For example, coconut milk for cow’s milk and herbal tea for black tea can go a long way in decreasing your body’s overall inflammation, thereby preventing such strong allergic reactions we see in OR.

It’s important to understand that demodex mites live on ALL human skin and eyes. People with Rosacea tend to react to them, almost like an allergic reaction. In my opinion, this is what is causing the redness and irritation in Ocular Rosacea: an increased population of mites living on the eyes, as well as a hypersensitivity to them.

Natural Home Remedies vs. Medical Treatments:

A Combined Approach to Tackling Ocular Rosacea

It turns out there are other natural products on the market made especially for Ocular Rosacea and Demodex Mites such as We Love Eyes. This brand uses tea tree oil which can be very irritating for some, but is also very effective at killing Demodex Mites. It’s important that if you opt for a topical treatment, you follow the package instructions exactly and of course get a proper diagnosis from your eye doctor before attempting a treatment such as this.

The Role of Environmental Factors in Managing Ocular Rosacea

Did you know that the personal products you choose, and the quality of the air you breathe play a huge role in your overall health? And did you know the food you eat and how you live your day-to-day life can impact not just your overall health, but your eyes as well? Let’s discuss some lifestyle tweaks that could make a big difference in managing Ocular Rosacea symptoms.

One of the major factors in Ocular Rosacea is chronic eye irritation and inflammation. This is not just caused by Demodex Mites, but by allergens and irritants you may have never thought of.  Some of these may include:

• Air freshener and plug-ins
• Harsh cleaning chemicals
• Scented or colored laundry detergent (especially for bedding or washcloths)
• Soaps/cleansers with fragrance and colors
• Smoke
• Pollution
• Dust
• Mildew
• Carpeting
• Eye makeup (often contaminated with asbestos and mercury)
• Fake Eyelashes (and glue)

How to Use a Warm Compress, the right way!

Warm compresses are one of those treatments for ocular rosacea that are so incredibly effective but often get overlooked. When combined with an eye foam made to target Demodex mites, warm compresses can make a real difference! They work by unclogging those blocked oil glands in your eyelids, which brings relief from that frustrating dryness, irritation, and inflammation. The heat softens any hardened oils stuck in the glands, which is especially important if you’re dealing with Meibomian gland dysfunction.

My optometrist expressed that most people are incorrectly leaving out one key step of compress usage:

💡 Key Tip: Most people just warm their eyelids but skip the essential part—gently massaging near the lash line afterward. That massage helps loosen and release the trapped oils, kind of like melting butter. For the best results, don’t forget to massage after the heat to really clear those oil glands.

A quick reminder: always use a new, fresh, and CLEAN washcloth each time you do this to avoid bacteria, and make sure the water is warm—not too hot. If you stick with this routine, you’ll likely notice a big improvement. And if you’re unsure of how to make a warm compress for your eyes, it’s so important to follow the right method so you’re getting the full benefit.

I’m a fan of a few new, research-backed methods that maintain the therapeutic target of 40°C (104°F) for longer than traditional hot towels. This very recently published [PubMed research article] by Dr. Gladys Lee goes through the details if you’re interested! ³

What is Dry Eye Syndrome Caused by Botox?

I’ve never had Botox myself, but it’s become so common that it’s worth discussing—especially if you have ocular rosacea. While Botox is often recommended for certain conditions, it can actually cause or worsen dry eye syndrome and affect the delicate face muscles near the eyes.

Amina I. Malik, MD, Chief of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, advises caution with Botox near the eyes, as it can reduce blinking and tear production, making dryness even worse. Education around these potential side effects is essential for anyone considering this treatment. ⁴

As Dr. Kherani explains ,

“Botox relaxes the orbicularis oculi muscles, so patients may not have the same power to contract.”

This reduced muscle function can lead to less blinking and, as a result, decreased tear production, causing more dryness. Dr. Fezza also notes that Botox can affect the tear glands, making dry eye symptoms worse by reducing tear flow.

Dry Eye Syndrome due to Botox is rarely discussed in the medical community, yet its symptoms overlap with those of ocular rosacea—a sign that something deeper is going on. I’ve seen patients with both ocular rosacea and facial rosacea prescribed Botox, only to find their condition worsened.

If you’re considering Botox, be sure to research thoroughly and weigh all options, including potential long-term side effects.

The Often Overlooked Role of Demodex Mites by Healthcare Professionals: The Importance of Professional Guidance

Why Aren’t More Doctors Talking About This?

It’s not that doctors completely overlook Demodex mites. The truth is, everyone has Demodex mites living on their skin, so they’re often not seen as a primary concern in treatment. However, what I’ve discovered through my own experience is that for those of us with rosacea, these mites can trigger or worsen flare-ups. While there’s still limited research linking Demodex mites to rosacea, my journey with The Rosacea Method has shown me that addressing Demodex can be a game changer for managing symptoms.

For me, the solution was a combination of over-the-counter eyelash cleaning foam, warm compresses, and switching to non-toxic makeup and skincare products. Along with dietary and lifestyle changes, these steps helped soothe my eyes and keep my flare-ups under control. Now, my eyes no longer itch, burn, or turn red, and I haven’t used my prescribed hydrating eye drops in years.

When to See a Doctor: Navigating Your Healthcare Journey

Sometimes, home remedies just don’t cut it. They just can’t provide relief from eye problems, indicating the need for specialist care. When it comes to your eyes, it’s very important that any changes to your vision or any eye issues or even concerns about potential vision loss should be reviewed by an eye doctor. Why? Because Ocular Rosacea can mimic other potentially dangerous conditions like thyroid eye disease, Botox-induced dry eye disease, conjunctivitis, infection, and many others.

Once you have a correct diagnosis, you can start an appropriate care regime, possibly including an antibiotic treatment. With a correct diagnosis concerning your eye dysfunction and an appropriate treatment plan, you can begin the process of healing. 

Diagnosis 101: How to Confirm It’s Ocular Rosacea

Feeling uncertain? It’s time to visit your doctor.  Knowing what to expect at your appointment can ease some of that anxiety.

Make a list of the symptoms you’ve been experiencing and ask your doctor if it may be Ocular Rosacea. There are many other causes of Ocular Rosacea which are NOT Demodex Mites, and this is a condition that cannot be self-diagnosed.

If you are not comfortable asking your doctor questions or if you feel your eye doctor is not up to date on Demodex Mites, proper treatment of Ocular Rosacea, or even the side effects of Botox, it may be time to find a new doctor. It’s important to have a healthcare provider you trust, and it’s okay to seek a second opinion!

Your Ocular Rosacea Action Plan

Wrapping up, let’s create a personalized plan to manage your Ocular Rosacea.

First and foremost, get your diagnosis! Understand if you are experiencing a simple irritation or eye dysfunction.

Next, consider environmental triggers such as air fresheners, artificial colors, and air quality. Consider old or toxic makeup containing heavy metals that may be causing an allergic reaction… and throw it away!

Finally, meet with a Rosacea specialist or Ocular Rosacea specialist to consider all treatment options. 

How You Can Cure Ocular Rosacea Too!

Ocular Rosacea doesn’t have to be a roadblock that keeps you from enjoying life’s beautiful moments, but it also isn’t a cakewalk. Think of it as a hurdle, it’s 100% possible to overcome, you just need a little hard work to get there.

And that’s what we’re here for!

I’ve created The Rosacea Method with the sole purpose of educating you about all things Rosacea and Ocular Rosacea, and giving you the tools you need to show Ocular Rosacea who’s boss!

So let’s take this step-by-step and tackle your Rosacea the natural way!

How I Cured My Ocular Rosacea Article FAQs

References

1. Oliveira CMM, Almeida LMC, Bonamigo RR, Lima CWG, Bagatin E. Consensus on the therapeutic management of rosacea – Brazilian Society of Dermatology. An Bras Dermatol. 2020 Nov-Dec;95 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):53-69. doi: 10.1016/j.abd.2020.08.001. Epub 2020 Oct 10. PMID: 33172727; PMCID: PMC7772594. ↩︎
2. Rodrigues-Braz D, Zhao M, Yesilirmak N, Aractingi S, Behar-Cohen F, Bourges JL. Cutaneous and ocular rosacea: Common and specific physiopathogenic mechanisms and study models. Mol Vis. 2021 May 13;27:323-353. PMID: 34035646; PMCID: PMC8131178. ↩︎
3. Kherani F, Fezza J. Botox Aids The Ocular Surface. Did you know that botox is being used off-label for epiphora, entropion, and the healing of ocular surfaces? Five experts talk about these little-known uses for the neurotoxin. EyeNet Magazine. January 2023;37-39 ↩︎

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Dr. Tara O’Desky nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.