The prevalence of hair follicle mites in caucasian New Zealanders.

Seventeen of 88 persons examined were positive for hair follicle mites of the genus Demodex, with eight having single species infestation of D. brevis, seven having D. folliculorum, and two persons being infested with both species. Prevalence increased from 8 percent to 75 percent according to age group. There was no correlation of infestation with host sex skin type, hygiene, use of cosmetics, or exposure to sun or other UV light. Demodex infestations in caucasian New Zealanders are similar to those reported from northern hemisphere countries.