What is Lyclear Dermal Cream (Permethrin) for?

Lyclear Dermal Cream contains permethrin 5%, an antiparasitic medicine used to treat scabies. Scabies is caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash. The cream works by killing the mites and their eggs, helping to clear the infestation.

How Does Lyclear Dermal Cream Work?

Permethrin targets the nervous system of the mites, paralysing and killing them. It also destroys their eggs, which prevents the cycle of reinfestation.

When to Consider Lyclear Dermal Cream

You may be prescribed Lyclear Dermal Cream if you have:

Scabies diagnosed by a healthcare professional
Itching that is worse at night, with a rash often between the fingers, wrists, armpits, or waistline
A confirmed infestation in your household or close contacts

Who Should Use Lyclear Dermal Cream

Adults and children over 2 months old who have been diagnosed with scabies

Anyone living in the same household or in close physical contact with an infected person, as simultaneous treatment prevents reinfection

Who Should Not Use Lyclear Dermal Cream

Infants under 2 months old (unless advised by a doctor)
People allergic to permethrin, chrysanthemums, or any of the cream’s ingredients

Alternative Treatments for Scabies

Benzyl benzoate lotion
Malathion lotion (sometimes used when permethrin is unsuitable)
Oral ivermectin (for resistant or severe cases, usually prescribed by a specialist)
Alongside medication, it is essential to wash clothing, bedding, and towels at 60°C and treat close contacts at the same time.

Can You Buy Lyclear Dermal Cream Over the Counter?

Yes. Lyclear Dermal Cream is a Pharmacy medicine (P) in the UK. This means it can be purchased directly from a pharmacy without a prescription, but the pharmacist will ask a few questions to check it is safe and appropriate for you.

How to Use Lyclear Dermal Cream for Scabies

Preparation
Make sure your skin is clean, cool, and dry before application.
Remove jewellery and trim nails short. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to apply cream under nails.

Application
Adults and children over 2 years: apply a thin layer of cream to the entire body from the neck down, including the soles of the feet, between fingers and toes, under fingernails, armpits, buttocks, and genital area.
Infants and young children: also apply to the face, ears, and scalp (avoiding the eyes and mouth).

Coverage
Use enough cream to cover all skin evenly. Adults generally need up to one full tube (30 g) for a single application.

Leave On
Leave the cream on for 8 to 12 hours (overnight is easiest). Do not bathe or shower during this time.

Washing Off
After 8 to 12 hours, wash off thoroughly with soap and water. Put on clean clothes.

Repeat if Needed
In most cases, one application is enough. Sometimes a second treatment after 7 days is recommended. Always follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s advice.

Household Measures
Everyone in close contact, including family and sexual partners, should be treated at the same time.
Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used in the previous few days at 60°C. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for 3 days.

After Treatment
Itching may continue for 2 to 3 weeks even after successful treatment. This does not always mean the scabies are still present. If symptoms persist beyond this, see your doctor.

Active ingredient:

Permethrin 5% w/w

Inactive ingredients (excipients):

Cetostearyl alcohol
Liquid paraffin
Isopropyl myristate
Macrogol cetostearyl ether
Carbomer 934P
Sodium hydroxide
Chlorocresol (as a preservative)
Purified water

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have skin allergies or sensitivities.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

Itching or burning where the cream is applied
Redness or tingling of the skin
Dryness or mild irritation

Uncommon side effects (up to 1 in 100 people):

Rash or worsening of existing scabies rash
Numbness, stinging, or prickling sensation in the skin

Rare side effects (up to 1 in 1,000 people):

Allergic reactions such as swelling, severe itching, or blistering
Worsening of asthma symptoms in people with a history of asthma

Important to know:

Itching often continues for 2–3 weeks after treatment, even if the scabies mites are gone. This is due to the body’s reaction to the mites and their waste, not because the cream hasn’t worked.

If irritation is severe or you notice signs of an allergic reaction, stop using the cream and speak to a doctor or pharmacist immediately.