Demodex and rosacea revisited.

Demodex mites are part of the vast microbiome living on and within human skin. The interaction of the various microorganisms with the skin plays a key role in the maintenance of homeostasis. The precise role and function of Demodex mites within normal and diseased human skin remains elusive. The emergence of ivermectin as a key therapy for rosacea has refocused interest in the role of Demodex mites in the pathogenesis of this skin disease and the ability of Demodex to modulate the host immune system.