Gently Resolve Demodectic Mange
Many people do not like treating their dog with heavy chemicals or strong medications when it has demodectic mange. Numerous people have successfully used our Zolfo shampoo to treat demodex (I do recommend you combine Zolfo with Mineral Plus Crème anti-bacterial shampoo). The technique used is detox (Purifying Mask) – cleanse (Zolfo & Mineral Plus Crème) – hydrate (pH Balance conditioner). Once you have treated the skin, you can regrow hair using our Mineral H shampoo followed by pH Balance conditioner.
What Is Demodectic Mange?
Demodectic mange (demodicosis) is a skin condition caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites. These tiny mites normally live in small numbers in the hair follicles of most dogs and cause no problems. Mange develops when the immune system cannot keep their numbers in check, which is why it is most often seen in puppies, in older dogs, and in pets that are stressed or have another underlying health issue.
Unlike sarcoptic mange (scabies), demodectic mange is not considered contagious to other healthy dogs or to people.
Signs of Demodectic Mange in Dogs
- Patchy hair loss, often starting around the eyes, mouth, face and front legs
- Red, scaly or thickened skin
- Bumps, crusts or darkened skin in affected areas
- Itching that ranges from mild to severe, especially if a secondary infection develops
- In widespread cases, inflamed skin over large areas of the body
Only a veterinarian can confirm demodex, usually with a skin scraping or hair sample. Because the same signs can come from allergies, ringworm or other mites, a diagnosis comes first.
Why Gentle Bathing Therapy Helps
Mange damages the skin barrier, and a damaged barrier invites secondary bacterial and yeast infections. Harsh, stripping products can make that worse. Supportive bathing focuses on cleansing without stripping, calming the skin, and restoring hydration so the skin can recover. Many groomers and owners use it alongside the treatment plan from their veterinarian.
The Iv San Bernard Detox, Cleanse, Hydrate Protocol
- Detox: apply Purifying Mask to help draw out impurities before cleansing.
- Cleanse: wash with Zolfo shampoo combined with Mineral Plus Crème anti-bacterial shampoo.
- Hydrate: finish with pH Balance Conditioner to restore the protective sebum layer.
Iv San Bernard products are concentrated. Dilute them about 1 part product to 3 parts water and leave the product on the skin for around 5 minutes before rinsing, so it has time to work.
Regrowing Hair After Mange
Once the skin has been treated and has calmed down, the focus moves to hair regrowth. Use Mineral H Shampoo followed by pH Balance Conditioner. Hair grows in cycles, so expect regrowth to take weeks to months. Browse our full range of hair regrowth products and products for crusty, itchy or irritated skin.
When to See Your Veterinarian
- Before starting any treatment, to confirm the diagnosis
- If hair loss is spreading or covers large areas of the body
- If the skin is oozing, bleeding, painful or has a strong odor
- If your dog seems lethargic, is losing weight or is not eating
- In adult dogs, since adult-onset demodex is often linked to another underlying condition
Not sure which products fit your pet’s skin? Schedule a product consultation with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is demodectic mange contagious?
Demodectic mange is generally not considered contagious to healthy dogs or to people. Demodex mites live naturally on most dogs and only cause disease when the immune system cannot keep them under control.
Can demodectic mange be treated without harsh chemicals?
Your veterinarian should confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan. Many owners and groomers support that plan with gentle bathing therapy, such as a detox, cleanse and hydrate routine using Purifying Mask, Zolfo with Mineral Plus Crème, and pH Balance Conditioner.
How long does it take for hair to grow back after mange?
Once the skin is healthy, regrowth typically takes several weeks to a few months because hair grows in cycles. Mineral H Shampoo followed by pH Balance Conditioner is used to support regrowth.
What does demodectic mange look like?
It usually starts as patchy hair loss around the eyes, mouth, face or front legs, often with red, scaly or crusty skin. A skin scraping by a veterinarian is needed to confirm it.