Tuesday 11 August 2015

Still battling the demodex mites but winning!

Since my last post, I saw my dermatologist and was recommended to try IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) to reduce the redness in my cheeks, nose and chin where the veins are damaged.  

I had my first session 4 weeks ago at the dermatologist and am due for my second session tomorrow. 

The head dermatologist came to inspect my face before the session and she said that I had done a great job of reducing the mites but they were still evident around my nose creases and on my chin. I realised that I hadn't been focussing on those areas since it was the pimples and pustules on my cheeks which had been causing me the most concern.  Since then I have paid particular attention to the chin and nose creases and there has been a nice improvement. 

During the session, the zapping was uncomfortable particularly around the base of the nose and nostril flaps.  I figured that if I don't make a fuss it will be over faster so I gritted my teeth and tried to focus on my breathing.

The following four days were spent being very gentle on my skin and using a thin application of Advantan cream (daily) and regular applications of Aloe Vera gel to soothe the burning feeling.  I found some Solosite gel in the cupboard and it was nice but if it was touched after application it was a bit messy to deal with.  

After my skin felt calm again, I continued with my current demodex mite eradication.

Currently I am using Quellada lotion once a day.  The best time to apply it is in the evening just as the mites are starting to emerge.   



You may recall, I was using Lyclear with great results but after a couple of months I noticed discomfort most likely from the preservative (formaldehyde).  My dermatologist said to use whichever feels the best.  Most people wouldn't react to the amount of formaldehyde so it's a matter of trying it.  The Lyclear is certainly easier to apply.  The Quellada is wetter and therefore takes a bit longer to work into the skin.

Here are the latest images of my cheeks.