Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Lyclear Express Spray 100ml

Lyclear Express Spray 100ml

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Kills head lice with clinically established permethrin 1%
  • ✔️ Fast 10-minute contact time — no overnight application needed
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 months and over
  • ✔️ Spray format ensures easy, thorough scalp coverage
  • ✔️ Two-dose course tackles both live lice and newly hatched nymphs

Price Checker

Regular price £11.99
Sale price £11.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Lyclear Express Head Lice Spray?

 

Head lice are one of the most common childhood complaints in the UK, affecting millions of families every year. If you've spotted the telltale signs — persistent scalp itching, tiny eggs clinging to hair shafts, or live lice moving through the hair — you'll want something that works quickly and reliably. Lyclear Express Spray 100ml is a clinically established head lice spray containing permethrin 1%, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide with a well-documented track record in treating head lice infestations. Available without a prescription, it's a practical first-line option for households dealing with an active infestation. You can find it alongside other treatments in our Head Lice collection.

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) spread through direct head-to-head contact and are not a sign of poor hygiene. The NHS confirms that anyone can get head lice, regardless of hair type or cleanliness. Lyclear Express Spray is designed to be straightforward to apply, making it suitable for busy parents and carers who need an effective solution without complicated preparation.

 

How Does Lyclear Express Spray Work?

 

Permethrin, the active ingredient in Lyclear Express Spray, belongs to the pyrethroid class of insecticides. It targets the nervous system of head lice by binding to sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, causing prolonged nerve firing, paralysis, and ultimately death of the louse. Unlike some older treatments, permethrin has a residual effect on the hair shaft, which may offer some protection against re-infestation for a short period after treatment.

  • Permethrin 1% binds to sodium channels in louse nerve cells
  • Disrupts normal nerve signal transmission
  • Causes paralysis and death of live lice
  • Residual activity on hair may reduce immediate re-infestation risk
  • Does not rely on physical suffocation, unlike dimeticone-based products

 

Who Should Use Lyclear Express Spray?

 

Lyclear Express Spray is suitable for adults and children aged 6 months and over. It is particularly useful when a quick, rinse-off treatment is preferred over leave-on lotions. Children under 2 years should only be treated under the supervision of a healthcare professional. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using this product.

  • Adults and children aged 6 months and over with confirmed head lice
  • Households where multiple family members need treating simultaneously
  • Those who prefer a spray format over a lotion or shampoo
  • People who have not responded to dimeticone-based treatments

 

How Does Lyclear Express Spray Compare to Other Head Lice Treatments?

 

Feature Lyclear Express Spray 100ml Dimeticone Lotion (e.g. Hedrin)
Active ingredient Permethrin 1% Dimeticone 4%
Mechanism Neurotoxic — disrupts louse nervous system Physical — coats and suffocates lice
Contact time 10 minutes 8 hours (overnight)
Suitable age 6 months and over 6 months and over
Resistance risk Some resistance reported in UK lice populations No known resistance

 

Is Lyclear Express Spray Safe to Store at Home?

 

Lyclear Express Spray should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It is flammable, so keep it away from naked flames and do not puncture or incinerate the container. Store out of reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing other scalp or hair care concerns alongside a lice infestation, speak to your pharmacist about the best approach.

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.

Lyclear Express Spray 100ml specifications
Treatment category Head lice treatment
Active ingredient Permethrin 1%
Mechanism of action Pyrethroid insecticide — disrupts sodium channels in louse nerve cells
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 months and over
Pack size 100ml
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Pyrethroid insecticide
Preparation Topical spray
Route of administration Topical (scalp and hair)

Specifications of Lyclear Express Spray 100ml

 

What Is Lyclear Express Spray and What Is It Used For?

 

Lyclear Express Spray 100ml is a topical insecticidal spray used to treat head lice infestations (pediculosis capitis) in adults and children aged 6 months and over. It contains permethrin 1% as its active ingredient. Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that kills live head lice by disrupting their nervous system. The NHS recommends wet combing or insecticidal treatments as the two main approaches to managing head lice, and permethrin-based products are among the established insecticidal options available over the counter in the UK.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lyclear Express Spray?

 

Before using this head lice spray, read the following carefully. Do not use Lyclear Express Spray if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to permethrin, any pyrethroid, pyrethrin, or any other ingredient in the spray
  • The person being treated is under 6 months of age
  • The scalp has open wounds, broken skin, or an active skin infection
  • The person has severe or persistent asthma (pyrethroids may trigger bronchospasm in sensitive individuals)

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or treating a child under 2 years of age. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If the spray accidentally contacts the eyes, rinse thoroughly with water immediately.

Drug interactions: No significant drug interactions are known for topically applied permethrin at this concentration. However, always inform your pharmacist of any other medicines you are using.

  • No clinically significant interactions with oral medicines have been established for topical permethrin 1%
  • Do not use alongside other scalp treatments without pharmacist advice

 

How Should You Use Lyclear Express Spray?

 

Always use Lyclear Express Spray exactly as described in the patient information leaflet. If you are unsure about anything, ask your pharmacist. The spray is applied to dry hair — not wet — which distinguishes it from some other lice treatments.

  1. Ensure hair is completely dry before application
  2. Shake the bottle well before use
  3. Spray onto the hair and scalp, working section by section to ensure full coverage from roots to tips
  4. Pay particular attention to the nape of the neck and behind the ears, where lice commonly congregate
  5. Leave the product on for 10 minutes — do not rinse off before this time
  6. Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water and shampoo
  7. While hair is still damp, comb through with a fine-tooth nit comb to remove dead lice and eggs (nits)
  8. Repeat the treatment after 7 days to kill any lice that may have hatched from surviving eggs
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Head lice infestation Adults and children 6 months+ Sufficient to cover all hair and scalp Two applications, 7 days apart
Head lice infestation Children under 2 years Under medical supervision only As directed by healthcare professional

If lice are still present after two full courses of treatment, consult your pharmacist. Resistance to permethrin has been reported in some UK lice populations, and an alternative treatment such as a dimeticone-based product may be more appropriate. You can explore other options in our Skin Care collection or speak directly to one of our pharmacists.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

 

Like all medicines, Lyclear Express Spray can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the scalp.

Common side effects:

  • Mild scalp itching or irritation (this may also be a symptom of the lice infestation itself)
  • Temporary burning or stinging sensation on the scalp
  • Mild redness of the scalp

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or hives at the site of application
  • Numbness or tingling of the scalp
  • Eye irritation if product contacts the eyes

Stop using the product and seek medical advice if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin rash. These reactions are rare but require prompt attention.

 

How Should You Store Lyclear Express Spray?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the product's effectiveness and keeps your household safe. If you're managing other family health products at home, our Baby and Toddler collection also includes guidance on safe storage of children's medicines.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • This product is flammable — keep away from naked flames, sparks, and sources of ignition
  • Do not puncture or incinerate the container, even when empty
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not store in a bathroom or other humid environment

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 Lyclear Express Spray online in the UK?

You can buy Lyclear Express Spray 100ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £11.99. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter medicine. Browse our full range of treatments in the Head Lice collection for additional options.

How does Lyclear Express Spray work in the body?

Lyclear Express Spray contains permethrin 1%, a synthetic pyrethroid that works by binding to sodium channels in the nerve cell membranes of head lice. This causes prolonged, uncontrolled nerve firing, leading to paralysis and death of the louse. It acts locally on the scalp and hair and is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream at the concentrations used in this product.

How do I use Lyclear Express Spray step by step?

Apply the spray to completely dry hair, covering the entire scalp and all hair from roots to tips. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and comb through with a fine-tooth nit comb while the hair is still damp. Repeat the process after 7 days to catch any lice that hatch from eggs after the first treatment.

How long do I leave Lyclear Express Spray on my hair?

You should leave Lyclear Express Spray on the hair and scalp for exactly 10 minutes before rinsing. Do not leave it on for longer than directed, and do not rinse it off before the 10 minutes are up, as this may reduce its effectiveness. Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet included with the product.

Is Lyclear Express Spray safe for children?

Lyclear Express Spray is suitable for children aged 6 months and over, but children under 2 years should only be treated under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Always keep the spray away from a child's eyes and mouth during application. If you have any concerns about using this head lice spray on a young child, speak to your pharmacist or GP first.

Can I use Lyclear Express Spray if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your GP or pharmacist before using Lyclear Express Spray. While topical permethrin is not significantly absorbed systemically, caution is always advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your healthcare professional can advise on the safest treatment option for your situation.

What are the side effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

The most common side effects are mild scalp irritation, itching, or a temporary burning sensation, which usually resolve quickly after rinsing. Less commonly, some people experience a skin rash, numbness, or tingling at the application site. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction — such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing — stop using the product and seek medical attention immediately.

Do I need to repeat the treatment with Lyclear Express Spray?

Yes — a second application is recommended 7 days after the first. This is because permethrin may not kill all lice eggs (nits) during the initial treatment, and a second dose targets any lice that hatch in the intervening week. Skipping the second treatment is one of the most common reasons an infestation persists.

What happens if Lyclear Express Spray does not work?

If lice are still present after completing two full courses of treatment, this may indicate permethrin resistance, which has been reported in some UK lice populations. In this case, speak to your pharmacist about switching to a dimeticone-based product, which works by a different physical mechanism. You can explore alternative treatments in our Hair Care collection.

What are the alternatives to Lyclear Express Spray?

The main alternatives to permethrin-based treatments are dimeticone products (such as Hedrin), which physically coat and suffocate lice rather than using an insecticide. Wet combing with a fine-tooth comb and conditioner is also a non-chemical option recommended by the NHS. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate treatment based on your circumstances and any previous treatments used.

Can Lyclear Express Spray be used on coloured or chemically treated hair?

There is no specific evidence that Lyclear Express Spray damages coloured or chemically treated hair, but it is always advisable to check with your pharmacist if you have concerns. Some people with chemically treated hair may find their scalp is more sensitive, so monitor for any unusual irritation during and after application. If irritation is significant, rinse off immediately and seek pharmacist advice.

How long does a head lice infestation last without treatment?

Without treatment, a head lice infestation will not resolve on its own and can persist indefinitely, as lice continue to reproduce on the scalp. The NHS advises treating head lice as soon as they are detected to prevent spread to other household members or close contacts. Using a head lice spray like Lyclear Express promptly is the most effective way to break the cycle.

Should I treat everyone in the household at the same time?

The NHS recommends checking all household members for head lice and treating only those in whom live lice are confirmed. Treating people who do not have lice is not necessary and may contribute to unnecessary product use. However, all confirmed cases in the household should be treated on the same day to prevent re-infestation.

Is Lyclear Express Spray the same as Lyclear Cream Rinse?

Both products contain permethrin as the active ingredient, but they differ in formulation and application method. Lyclear Express Spray is applied to dry hair and left for 10 minutes, whereas Lyclear Cream Rinse is typically applied to freshly washed, towel-dried hair. Always read the specific instructions for whichever product you are using, as application methods differ.

What are the latest findings on permethrin resistance in UK head lice?

Resistance to permethrin and other pyrethroids has been documented in head lice populations across the UK and Europe, with some studies suggesting it is relatively widespread. This is why the NHS and pharmacists sometimes recommend rotating between insecticidal and non-insecticidal treatments. If you suspect resistance, speak to your pharmacist about switching to a dimeticone-based alternative.

How Should You Use Lyclear Express Spray?

Lyclear Express Spray is applied directly to dry hair — this is important, as applying it to wet hair will dilute the active ingredient and reduce its effectiveness. Make sure you cover the entire scalp and all hair thoroughly before starting the timer.

What Is the Correct Dose of Lyclear Express Spray?

There is no fixed volume dose for Lyclear Express Spray — you should use enough product to thoroughly saturate all hair and scalp. For longer or thicker hair, more product will be needed to ensure complete coverage. Two applications, spaced 7 days apart, constitute a full course of treatment.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lyclear Express Spray?

There is no specific time of day required for application, but many people find it easiest to use Lyclear Express Spray in the evening, when there is more time to complete the full process without rushing. Ensure hair is fully dry before you start — applying it straight after a shower or bath will not be effective. Treat all confirmed cases in the household on the same day to prevent re-infestation between family members.

How Long Can You Use Lyclear Express Spray For?

Lyclear Express Spray is intended for short-term use to treat an active head lice infestation. A standard course consists of two applications, 7 days apart. If lice are still present after completing both treatments, do not continue applying the product repeatedly — speak to your pharmacist, as this may indicate permethrin resistance and an alternative treatment may be needed. It is not intended for use as a preventative measure or for long-term routine application.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

Most people tolerate Lyclear Express Spray well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Because head lice themselves cause scalp itching, it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether irritation is from the infestation or the treatment — but in most cases, any discomfort settles quickly after rinsing.

  • Mild scalp itching or irritation
  • Temporary burning or stinging sensation on the scalp
  • Mild redness at the site of application
  • Temporary increase in scalp itching immediately after application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

A smaller number of people may experience more noticeable reactions, particularly those with sensitive skin or a history of skin conditions. These effects are not dangerous in most cases but should be monitored.

  • Skin rash or hives (urticaria) at the application site
  • Numbness or tingling of the scalp
  • Eye irritation if the spray accidentally contacts the eyes
  • Mild oedema (swelling) of the scalp skin

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

Serious side effects from topical permethrin at 1% concentration are rare. However, allergic reactions can occur in people who are sensitive to pyrethroids or pyrethrins. Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread skin rash, or dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lyclear Express Spray?

For mild side effects such as scalp irritation or stinging, rinsing the product off thoroughly with water and shampoo is usually sufficient. Avoid scratching the scalp, as this can worsen irritation and increase the risk of secondary skin infection. If side effects persist beyond 24–48 hours after rinsing, or if you are concerned at any point, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice.

Can Lyclear Express Spray Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been established for topically applied permethrin 1% at the concentrations used in Lyclear Express Spray. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. However, you should avoid using other scalp treatments, medicated shampoos, or topical products on the scalp at the same time without first checking with your pharmacist, as this could increase the risk of local irritation.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery