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LANACANE Medicated Cream 30g - Soothes Itching & Irritations Fast

LANACANE Medicated Cream 30g - Soothes Itching & Irritations Fast

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  • ✔️ Temporarily relieves itching from insect bites and minor rashes
  • ✔️ Contains benzocaine 1% w/w to numb irritated skin fast
  • ✔️ Steroid-free formula suitable for adults and children over 3
  • ✔️ Compact 30g tube for convenient, targeted application
  • ✔️ Effective for minor skin irritations including contact reactions

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Is Lanacane Cream for Itching Right for You?

 

Itching can be genuinely disruptive — whether it's a persistent patch of irritated skin, an insect bite that won't leave you alone, or a minor rash that flares at the worst possible moment. Lanacane cream for itching has been a trusted over-the-counter option in the UK for decades, offering targeted, temporary relief from a range of minor skin irritations. The 30g tube is compact, easy to apply, and available without a prescription, making it a practical addition to any home medicine cabinet. You can browse the full range of creams and ointments available at Cured Pharmacy if you're comparing topical options.

The active ingredient is benzocaine 1% w/w — a well-established local anaesthetic used topically to numb the skin and reduce the sensation of itch. It's not a steroid, so it works differently from hydrocortisone-based products. That distinction matters for people who want to avoid corticosteroids or who are dealing with itch that isn't driven by inflammation.

 

How Does Lanacane Medicated Cream Work on the Skin?

 

Benzocaine works by temporarily blocking sodium channels in sensory nerve endings near the skin's surface. This interrupts the transmission of itch and pain signals to the brain, providing localised relief without affecting surrounding tissue. It's a surface-level action — the cream doesn't penetrate deeply or enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts when used as directed.

  • Benzocaine binds to voltage-gated sodium channels in peripheral nerve fibres
  • Nerve signal transmission is temporarily inhibited at the application site
  • The sensation of itch or minor pain is reduced within minutes of application
  • Effect is localised — no systemic anaesthetic action at standard topical doses

 

Who Is Lanacane Medicated Cream Suitable For?

 

This cream is designed for adults and children over 3 years of age who are experiencing minor, superficial skin irritation. It's particularly useful when you need quick, temporary relief and don't want to reach for a steroid cream. That said, it's not appropriate for every type of itch — if your skin is broken, infected, or severely inflamed, you should speak to a pharmacist or GP before using it.

  • Adults with insect bites, minor rashes, or localised itching
  • People seeking a non-steroidal option for temporary itch relief
  • Those with mild skin irritation from contact with plants, fabrics, or environmental triggers
  • Children over 3 years, under adult supervision

 

How Does Lanacane Medicated Cream Compare to Hydrocortisone Cream?

 

Feature Lanacane Medicated Cream Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
Active ingredient Benzocaine 1% w/w Hydrocortisone 1% w/w
Mechanism Local anaesthetic — numbs nerve endings Mild corticosteroid — reduces inflammation
Best for Minor itching, insect bites, irritation Inflammatory skin conditions, eczema flares
Steroid-free Yes No

 

How Should You Store Lanacane Medicated Cream?

 

Store the tube below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the cream after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're unsure whether a product is still suitable to use, your pharmacist can advise. Exploring our wider skin care collection may also help you find complementary products for ongoing skin health.

As with any topical medicine, lanacane cream for itching should be used only on intact, uninfected skin. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If you accidentally get the cream in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical advice if irritation persists.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

LANACANE Medicated Cream 30g specifications
Treatment category Topical itch relief / Local anaesthetic
Active ingredient Benzocaine 1% w/w
Mechanism of action Blocks sodium channels in peripheral sensory nerve endings to reduce itch and minor pain
Effective for Minor itching, insect bites, minor skin irritations
Suitable for Adults and children over 3 years
Pack size 30g
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Local anaesthetic (topical)
Preparation Cream
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of LANACANE Medicated Cream 30g

 

What Is Lanacane Medicated Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Lanacane Medicated Cream is a topical local anaesthetic preparation containing benzocaine 1% w/w. It is used to provide temporary relief from minor itching and skin irritations, including those caused by insect bites, minor rashes, contact irritation, and similar superficial skin complaints. It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription from pharmacies and registered online retailers.

Lanacane cream for itching works at the skin's surface and is not intended to treat underlying skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections. If your symptoms are persistent, spreading, or accompanied by other signs such as swelling, fever, or discharge, you should seek advice from a GP or pharmacist rather than relying on this cream alone.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lanacane Medicated Cream?

 

Before applying this cream, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully. Not everyone is suitable for this product.

  • Do not use if you are allergic to benzocaine, other local anaesthetics of the ester type, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Do not apply to broken, infected, severely inflamed, or weeping skin
  • Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes
  • Do not use on large areas of skin or under occlusive dressings unless directed by a healthcare professional
  • Not recommended for children under 3 years without medical advice
  • Speak to your GP or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Known drug interactions at standard topical doses are not clinically significant. However, if you are using other topical preparations on the same area of skin, allow each to absorb fully before applying the next, and seek pharmacist advice if you are unsure about combining products.

  • No significant systemic drug interactions reported at recommended topical doses
  • Avoid concurrent use with other topical anaesthetics on the same skin area

 

How Should You Use Lanacane Medicated Cream?

 

Always use this cream exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not apply more than recommended, and do not use it on areas of skin not affected by itching or irritation.

  1. Wash and gently dry the affected area of skin before application
  2. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto a clean fingertip
  3. Apply a thin layer directly to the itchy or irritated area
  4. Gently rub in until absorbed
  5. Wash your hands after application, unless the hands are the area being treated
  6. Repeat up to three to four times daily as needed
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Minor itching / insect bites Adults Thin layer to affected area Up to 3–4 times daily
Minor skin irritation Children over 3 years Small amount, adult supervision Up to 3 times daily
Minor rashes Adults Thin layer to affected area Up to 3–4 times daily

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

 

Like all medicines, Lanacane Medicated Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area of application. If you notice any worsening of your skin condition after applying the cream, stop use immediately and consult a pharmacist or GP. You can also explore our first aid range for additional skin care support products.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin redness at the application site
  • Temporary mild burning or stinging sensation on application

Less common side effects:

  • Contact dermatitis (allergic skin reaction) — characterised by increased redness, itching, or a rash
  • Skin sensitisation with prolonged or repeated use
  • Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions — seek immediate medical attention if you develop swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing

 

How Should You Store Lanacane Medicated Cream?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the product's quality and safety throughout its shelf life. If you have any doubts about whether a product has been stored correctly, speak to your pharmacist before using it. For other topical products that require careful storage, our skin care collection includes a range of options with clear storage guidance.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicines to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Lanacane Medicated Cream online in the UK?

You can buy Lanacane Medicated Cream 30g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.32. It is available as an over-the-counter medicine and does not require a prescription. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our wider creams and ointments collection for related topical products.

How does Lanacane Medicated Cream work in the body?

Lanacane Medicated Cream contains benzocaine 1% w/w, a local anaesthetic that works by temporarily blocking sodium channels in the sensory nerve endings near the skin's surface. This interrupts the nerve signals that carry the sensation of itch or minor pain to the brain. The action is localised to the area of application and does not produce any significant systemic effect when used as directed.

How do I use Lanacane Medicated Cream step by step?

Start by washing and drying the affected area of skin. Apply a thin layer of cream to the itchy or irritated area and gently rub it in. Repeat up to three to four times daily as needed, and always wash your hands after application unless your hands are the area being treated.

What is the correct dose of Lanacane Medicated Cream for adults?

For adults, apply a thin layer of Lanacane Medicated Cream to the affected area up to three to four times daily. Use only the amount needed to cover the irritated skin — there is no benefit to applying a thick layer. Do not exceed the recommended frequency of application stated in the patient information leaflet.

Can children use Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Lanacane Medicated Cream is not recommended for children under 3 years of age without specific medical advice. For children aged 3 years and over, it may be used under adult supervision, applying a small amount to the affected area up to three times daily. If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for your child, speak to a pharmacist or GP before use.

What are the side effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Most people tolerate Lanacane Medicated Cream well, but some may experience mild redness, a brief stinging sensation, or skin irritation at the application site. Less commonly, contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction — can occur, particularly with prolonged use. If your symptoms worsen after applying the cream, stop use and consult a pharmacist or GP.

Who should not use Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Do not use this cream if you have a known allergy to benzocaine or other ester-type local anaesthetics. It should not be applied to broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin. Children under 3 years, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should seek pharmacist or GP advice before using it.

Can I use Lanacane Medicated Cream during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Lanacane Medicated Cream. While topical application of benzocaine results in minimal systemic absorption, it is always best to seek professional guidance before using any medicine during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh up the benefits and any potential risks.

What happens if I use too much Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Applying more cream than recommended is unlikely to cause serious harm when used on small areas of intact skin, but it will not provide additional benefit and may increase the risk of skin irritation. If you accidentally apply a large amount to a wide area of skin, or if the cream is ingested, contact NHS 111 or your nearest A&E for advice. Always keep the tube out of reach of children.

What are the alternatives to Lanacane Medicated Cream for itch relief?

Alternatives for itch relief include hydrocortisone 1% cream for inflammatory itching, calamine lotion for mild irritation, and oral antihistamines for widespread or allergy-related itching. The right choice depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms. If you are unsure which product is most appropriate, a pharmacist can help you decide — or you can explore our skin care range for further options.

How quickly does Lanacane Medicated Cream start to work?

Benzocaine, the active ingredient in Lanacane Medicated Cream, typically begins to take effect within a few minutes of application as it numbs the sensory nerve endings in the skin. The duration of relief varies depending on the individual and the nature of the irritation, but reapplication up to three to four times daily is permitted. It is not a cure for the underlying cause of itching — it provides temporary symptomatic relief.

How long can I use Lanacane Medicated Cream for?

Lanacane Medicated Cream is intended for short-term use to relieve temporary itching and minor irritation. If your symptoms have not improved after seven days of use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the cream and consult a pharmacist or GP. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask an underlying condition that requires treatment.

Can I use Lanacane Medicated Cream on my face?

Lanacane Medicated Cream should be used with caution on the face and must be kept away from the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If you need to apply it near the face, take care to avoid sensitive areas and do not apply it to broken or inflamed facial skin. If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for your specific concern, speak to a pharmacist before use.

Does Lanacane Medicated Cream interact with other medicines?

At standard topical doses, Lanacane Medicated Cream is not known to cause clinically significant interactions with other medicines. However, you should avoid applying it at the same time as other topical preparations to the same area of skin without pharmacist guidance. If you are taking any prescribed medicines or have a complex medical history, it is always worth checking with your pharmacist before starting a new topical product.

What are the latest findings on benzocaine for topical itch relief?

Benzocaine has been used as a topical local anaesthetic for many decades and its mechanism of action — sodium channel blockade in peripheral sensory nerves — is well established in the clinical literature. It remains a recognised option for short-term symptomatic relief of minor itching and irritation. For the most up-to-date clinical guidance on topical anaesthetics, the BNF and NHS resources provide regularly reviewed information for both patients and healthcare professionals.

How Should You Use Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Always read the patient information leaflet before using Lanacane Medicated Cream. Apply only to the affected area of skin and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If you are using it for the first time, consider applying a small amount to a patch of skin first to check for any sensitivity before wider use.

Follow these steps each time you apply the cream:

What Is the Correct Dose of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Use the smallest amount of cream needed to cover the affected area. Applying more than necessary will not improve the effect and may increase the risk of skin irritation. Always follow the dosage guidance below and do not exceed the recommended frequency of application.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lanacane Medicated Cream?

There is no fixed time of day required for applying Lanacane Medicated Cream — use it whenever itching or irritation is causing discomfort, up to the maximum daily frequency. Many people find it helpful to apply the cream after washing the affected area, as clean, dry skin allows better absorption. Applying it before bed may also help reduce overnight scratching, which can worsen skin irritation.

Space applications evenly throughout the day where possible, rather than applying multiple doses in quick succession. If you miss an application, simply use it when you next need relief — do not double up to compensate.

How Long Can You Use Lanacane Medicated Cream For?

Lanacane Medicated Cream is designed for short-term use only. If your symptoms have not improved within seven days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point during treatment, stop applying the cream and consult a pharmacist or GP. Persistent or recurring itching may indicate an underlying skin condition that requires a different approach to treatment.

Do not use this cream continuously for extended periods without seeking medical advice. Prolonged use of topical local anaesthetics on the same area of skin can occasionally lead to sensitisation, meaning the skin may become more reactive over time.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Most people who use Lanacane Medicated Cream do not experience significant side effects. When reactions do occur, they are usually mild and limited to the area of skin where the cream has been applied. Being aware of what to look out for helps you use the product safely and confidently.

  • Mild redness or flushing of the skin at the application site
  • A brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after application
  • Temporary skin warmth at the treated area

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Less commonly, some people may develop a skin reaction that goes beyond mild redness. This is more likely with prolonged or repeated use, or in individuals who have sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies. If you notice any of the following, stop using the cream and seek pharmacist or GP advice.

  • Contact dermatitis — increased redness, itching, or a new rash developing at the application site
  • Skin dryness or peeling with repeated use
  • Skin sensitisation — the skin becoming more reactive to the cream over time
  • Localised swelling or hives at the treated area

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

Serious side effects from topical benzocaine used as directed are rare. However, hypersensitivity reactions — including allergic reactions — can occasionally occur, particularly in people with a known allergy to ester-type local anaesthetics. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following after applying the cream.

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Widespread skin rash or hives beyond the application site
  • Dizziness or feeling faint

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lanacane Medicated Cream?

If you develop any side effects that concern you, stop using the cream immediately. For mild reactions such as redness or stinging, washing the area with cool water may help. For more significant reactions, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. In the case of a serious allergic reaction, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E without delay.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety information available for all medicines.

Can Lanacane Medicated Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

At the doses used in Lanacane Medicated Cream, clinically significant interactions with other medicines are not expected. The benzocaine acts locally on the skin and is not absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful amounts under normal conditions of use. However, you should avoid applying other topical preparations to the same area of skin at the same time without pharmacist guidance, as this could affect absorption or increase the risk of local irritation.

If you are taking any prescribed medicines, have a complex medical history, or are using multiple topical products, always check with your pharmacist before adding a new product to your routine.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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