Demodex Blepharitis Treatment in University Hills, California
Demodex Blepharitis — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- Cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at eyelash base
- Itchy, red, and irritated eyelids
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Crusty or sticky eyelashes upon waking
- Foreign body sensation in eyes
Treatment Options
- XDEMVY (lotilaner) prescription eye drops
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy
- ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)
- Tea tree oil-based lid scrubs
- BlephEx eyelid exfoliation
Demodex blepharitis is an inflammatory eyelid condition caused by microscopic Demodex mites living in eyelash follicles. When these mites multiply excessively, they trigger chronic inflammation, irritation, and damage to the meibomian glands. The condition affects approximately 25 million Americans and is characterized by distinctive cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at the base of eyelashes.
Demodex Blepharitis affects the eyelids and surrounding structures, impacting both comfort and appearance. University Hills residents experiencing persistent lid symptoms should seek evaluation to distinguish between conditions that look similar but require different treatments.
Dr. Bonakdar on Demodex Blepharitis
Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert demodex blepharitis diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.
What is Demodex Blepharitis?
Demodex blepharitis is an inflammatory eyelid condition caused by microscopic Demodex mites living in eyelash follicles. When these mites multiply excessively, they trigger chronic inflammation, irritation, and damage to the meibomian glands. The condition affects approximately 25 million Americans and is characterized by distinctive cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at the base of eyelashes.
How is Demodex Blepharitis treated?
Treatment options include XDEMVY (lotilaner) prescription eye drops, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment), Tea tree oil-based lid scrubs. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.
What are the symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis?
Common symptoms include Cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at eyelash base, Itchy, red, and irritated eyelids, Burning or stinging sensation, Crusty or sticky eyelashes upon waking, Foreign body sensation in eyes. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.
What are the symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis?
University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:
- Cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at eyelash base
- Itchy, red, and irritated eyelids
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Crusty or sticky eyelashes upon waking
- Foreign body sensation in eyes
- Eyelash loss or misdirected lashes
- Dry eye symptoms
How is Demodex Blepharitis treated?
Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:
Demodex Blepharitis FAQs for University Hills Patients
Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Demodex Blepharitis Care for University Hills Residents
Eyelid and adnexal conditions like demodex blepharitis are among the most common reasons patients visit our University Hills-area practice. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. While often not sight-threatening, these conditions affect comfort, appearance, and quality of life. Dr. Bonakdar provides precise diagnosis to distinguish between conditions that look similar but require different treatments, and offers both medical and procedural options depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition.
About University Hills
Academic community surrounding UC Irvine
Population: 15,000+
Languages Spoken in University Hills
Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for University Hills
- Comprehensive eye examinations
- Contact lens fittings
- Glasses and eyewear
- Eye disease treatment
- Emergency eye care
Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from University Hills
University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.
801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get DirectionsUniversity Hills Neighborhoods We Serve
- University Park
- UCI Campus Area
Zip codes: 92617
Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Demodex Blepharitis
Corneal Specialty Practice
Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including demodex blepharitis, with advanced slit lamp and topography diagnostics.
Scleral Lens Expertise
Custom scleral and specialty contact lens fittings for irregular corneas, dry eye, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
Same-Day Urgent Visits
University Hills patients with acute corneal symptoms can often be seen the same day for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Coordinated Surgical Care
When corneal surgery is needed, we coordinate with top corneal surgeons and manage your complete pre- and post-operative care.

Your Demodex Blepharitis Specialist in University Hills
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating demodex blepharitis and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.
Patient Stories from University Hills
See why your neighbors in University Hills trust us with their vision.
Comprehensive Exam
"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."
Comprehensive Exam
"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."
Schedule Your Demodex Blepharitis Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.