Collarettes

Collarettes are waxy, sleeve-like cuffs of debris that wrap around the base of the eyelashes and are one of the most important visible clues associated with Demodex blepharitis. They may appear with itchy eyelids, redness, burning, dry eye symptoms, lash crusting, lid margin irritation, or recurring inflammation along the lash line. Unlike ordinary eyelid flakes, collarettes form around the lash follicle, where Demodex mites can live and contribute to buildup, sensitivity, and chronic eyelid discomfort. This section explains what eyelash collarettes look like, why they matter, and how they may help identify Demodex-related eyelid concerns.