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Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml

Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml

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  • ✔️ Kills head lice with clinically recognised permethrin 1%
  • ✔️ Two-treatment course clears infestations in 14 days
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 months+
  • ✔️ Shampoo format rinses out in just 10 minutes
  • ✔️ 200ml bottle provides enough for whole-family treatment

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What Is Head Lice Shampoo and Does It Work?

 

Head lice are a common problem in the UK, particularly among school-age children — but they can affect anyone, regardless of hair type or hygiene. If you've spotted the telltale signs of an infestation, such as an itchy scalp or tiny eggs (nits) attached to the hair shaft, you'll want a treatment that actually works. Head lice shampoo containing permethrin is one of the most widely used options available over the counter. Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml contains permethrin 1%, a clinically recognised insecticide that targets lice directly. You can browse our full range of treatments in our head lice collection if you'd like to compare options.

Head lice infestations are not a sign of poor hygiene. The NHS confirms that lice spread through direct head-to-head contact, which is why they're so common in schools and households. Treating promptly — and correctly — is the key to clearing an infestation without it spreading further.

 

How Does Lyclear Treatment Shampoo Work?

 

Lyclear Treatment Shampoo works through the action of permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. Here's how it targets lice:

  • Permethrin binds to sodium channels in the nerve cell membranes of lice.
  • This disrupts normal nerve impulse transmission, causing paralysis.
  • Paralysed lice are unable to feed or move, and die within hours.
  • Permethrin also has some ovicidal (egg-killing) activity, though a second treatment is still recommended to catch any newly hatched lice.

The shampoo formulation allows the active ingredient to penetrate the hair shaft and reach lice close to the scalp. It's rinsed out after 10 minutes, making it a straightforward treatment to use at home.

 

Who Should Use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

 

This treatment is suitable for a wide range of people. It can be used by adults and children aged 6 months and over. It's particularly useful for families dealing with an active infestation, or for individuals who have confirmed live lice through wet combing. The NHS recommends treating all affected household members at the same time to prevent re-infestation.

  • Adults and teenagers with confirmed head lice
  • Children aged 6 months and over (with adult supervision)
  • Households where multiple members are affected
  • Those who prefer a shampoo format over lotion or spray treatments

 

How Does Lyclear Shampoo Compare to Other Head Lice Treatments?

 

Feature Lyclear Treatment Shampoo Dimeticone Lotion (e.g. Hedrin)
Active ingredient Permethrin 1% Dimeticone 4%
Mechanism Neurotoxic to lice Physical suffocation of lice
Application time 10 minutes 8 hours (or overnight)
Suitable from 6 months 6 months

 

Is Lyclear Treatment Shampoo Suitable for Sensitive Scalps?

 

If you have a sensitive scalp or a history of skin reactions, it's worth checking the ingredients before use. Lyclear Treatment Shampoo should not be used by anyone with a known allergy to permethrin or to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (such as chrysanthemums). Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes during application. If you're looking for complementary scalp care products, our hair care collection includes a range of gentle options.

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 Treatment Shampoo 200ml specifications
Treatment category Head lice treatment
Active ingredient Permethrin 1%
Mechanism of action Synthetic pyrethroid — disrupts lice nervous system causing paralysis and death
Effective against Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and eggs
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 months and over
Pack size 200ml
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Pyrethroid insecticide
Preparation Shampoo
Route of administration Topical (scalp)

Specifications of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml

 

What Is Lyclear Treatment Shampoo and What Is It Used For?

 

Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml is an over-the-counter insecticidal shampoo used to treat head lice infestations. Its active ingredient, permethrin 1%, is a synthetic pyrethroid that kills live lice by disrupting their nervous system. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be used in accordance with the product instructions or pharmacist guidance.

Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. They are spread by direct head-to-head contact and are particularly common among primary school children. The NHS advises that the most reliable way to confirm an infestation is wet combing — using a fine-toothed detection comb on damp, conditioned hair. Once confirmed, a suitable treatment such as this lice treatment shampoo should be applied promptly.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

 

Before using this product, read the following carefully. Do not use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to permethrin or any other ingredient in the shampoo
  • You have a known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (e.g. chrysanthemums, ragweed)
  • The person being treated is an infant under 6 months of age
  • You have broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin on the scalp

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using this product if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have asthma. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth during application. If the product gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Regarding drug interactions, permethrin shampoo is applied topically and is not significantly absorbed systemically, so clinically meaningful drug interactions are unlikely. However, always inform your pharmacist of any medicines you are currently taking.

  • No significant interactions are currently documented for topical permethrin at this concentration
  • Do not use alongside other scalp treatments without pharmacist advice

 

How Should You Use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

 

Follow these steps carefully to ensure the treatment is as effective as possible. Using the shampoo incorrectly — for example, leaving it on for too short a time — may reduce its effectiveness.

  1. Wet the hair thoroughly with warm water.
  2. Apply enough shampoo to cover the entire scalp and hair from root to tip.
  3. Work into a lather and ensure all areas of the scalp are covered.
  4. Leave the shampoo on for 10 minutes — do not rinse early.
  5. Rinse the hair thoroughly with warm water.
  6. Use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove dead lice and eggs from the hair.
  7. Repeat the full treatment after 7 days to eliminate any lice that have hatched since the first application.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Head lice treatment Adults and children aged 6 months+ Sufficient to cover scalp and hair Two applications, 7 days apart
Head lice treatment Infants under 6 months Not recommended without medical advice Seek GP guidance

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

 

Like all medicines, Lyclear Treatment Shampoo can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the scalp.

Common side effects:

  • Mild scalp itching or irritation
  • Temporary burning or stinging sensation on the scalp
  • Redness of the scalp
  • Tingling feeling during or after application

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or hives (urticaria)
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat (seek urgent medical attention if this occurs)
  • Difficulty breathing (rare — may indicate an allergic reaction)

It's worth noting that some itching after treatment may simply be a reaction to the dying lice rather than a side effect of the shampoo itself. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult your pharmacist. You can also find additional skin-related products in our skin care collection if you need to soothe post-treatment irritation.

 

How Should You Store Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety. Follow these guidelines:

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

If you're managing a household infestation and need additional support products, our baby and toddler collection includes gentle products suitable for younger family members.

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 Treatment Shampoo online in the UK?

You can buy Lyclear Treatment Shampoo 200ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for £11.99. No prescription is needed as it is a Pharmacy (P) medicine available over the counter. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door.

How does Lyclear Treatment Shampoo work in the body?

Lyclear Treatment Shampoo contains permethrin 1%, a synthetic pyrethroid that works by binding to sodium channels in the nerve cell membranes of head lice. This disrupts normal nerve signalling, causing paralysis and death of the lice. Because it is applied topically and rinsed off, systemic absorption is minimal.

How do I use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo step by step?

Wet the hair thoroughly, apply enough shampoo to cover the scalp and all hair from root to tip, and work into a lather. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Use a fine-toothed nit comb afterwards to remove dead lice and eggs, and repeat the full treatment after 7 days.

How many times do I need to use Lyclear shampoo to clear head lice?

Two treatments are recommended, applied exactly 7 days apart. The first application kills live lice, while the second targets any lice that have hatched from eggs since the initial treatment. Skipping the second application is one of the most common reasons infestations return.

Is Lyclear Treatment Shampoo safe for children?

Yes, Lyclear Treatment Shampoo is suitable for children aged 6 months and over when used as directed. For infants under 6 months, you should seek advice from a GP or pharmacist before use. Always supervise children during application and avoid contact with their eyes.

Can I use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your pharmacist or GP before using Lyclear Treatment Shampoo. While topical permethrin has limited systemic absorption, a healthcare professional can advise on the safest treatment option for your individual circumstances. Do not self-treat without seeking guidance first.

What are the side effects of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

The most common side effects are mild scalp irritation, itching, tingling, or a temporary burning sensation during or after application. These usually resolve quickly once the shampoo is rinsed out. Rarely, an allergic reaction may occur — if you notice swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical attention.

What should I do if Lyclear shampoo gets in my eyes?

If the shampoo accidentally contacts your eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with plenty of clean, lukewarm water for several minutes. Do not rub your eyes. If irritation persists after rinsing, seek advice from a pharmacist or visit your nearest minor injuries unit.

Who is not suitable for Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

This product is not suitable for infants under 6 months, or for anyone with a known allergy to permethrin or plants in the Asteraceae family such as chrysanthemums. People with asthma or severely broken skin on the scalp should consult a pharmacist before use. Always check the full ingredient list if you have known sensitivities.

What are the alternatives to Lyclear Treatment Shampoo for head lice?

Alternatives include dimeticone-based products (such as Hedrin), which work by physically coating and suffocating lice rather than using an insecticide. Malathion-based treatments are another option available from pharmacies. You can explore our full head lice collection to compare available treatments.

Does Lyclear Treatment Shampoo kill nits (eggs) as well as live lice?

Permethrin has some ovicidal activity, meaning it can affect lice eggs, but it does not reliably kill all eggs in a single application. This is why a second treatment after 7 days is essential — to eliminate any lice that hatch from surviving eggs after the first application. Using a nit comb after each treatment also helps remove eggs manually.

How long does it take for Lyclear Treatment Shampoo to work?

Permethrin begins acting on lice almost immediately upon contact, with lice typically dying within hours of application. You may still see some movement shortly after rinsing, but this should cease as the permethrin continues to work. Dead lice and eggs can then be removed using a fine-toothed nit comb.

Can the whole family use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo at the same time?

Yes — the NHS recommends treating all affected household members simultaneously to prevent re-infestation. Check each person's hair using a wet detection comb first to confirm live lice before treating. The 200ml bottle provides enough product for multiple applications, making it practical for family use.

What is the best time to use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

There is no specific time of day required, but many people find it easiest to apply during bath or shower time. Ensure you have 10 uninterrupted minutes for the shampoo to work before rinsing. Treating in the evening can be practical for families, as it allows time for thorough combing afterwards without rushing.

What are the latest recommendations on treating head lice in the UK?

The NHS currently recommends either wet combing or an insecticidal or dimeticone-based treatment as the two main approaches to managing head lice. Permethrin-based products like this head lice shampoo remain a recognised treatment option. For children in school settings, the NHS advises against exclusion from school and encourages prompt treatment to limit spread. You can also find complementary products in our hair care collection.

How Should You Use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

Using Lyclear Treatment Shampoo correctly is essential to clearing a head lice infestation effectively. Always read the product label before use and follow these steps carefully to get the best result.

What Is the Correct Dose of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

There is no fixed volume dose — you should apply enough shampoo to thoroughly cover the scalp and all hair. Longer or thicker hair will naturally require more product. The 200ml bottle is designed to provide sufficient product for multiple applications across a family.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

There is no medically required time of day for application. Many families find it easiest to use during bath or shower time in the evening, as this allows time for thorough nit combing afterwards without rushing. Treating all affected household members at the same time — as recommended by the NHS — is also more practical to coordinate in the evening.

Mark the date of your first treatment and set a reminder for exactly 7 days later so you don't miss the second application.

How Long Can You Use Lyclear Treatment Shampoo For?

Lyclear Treatment Shampoo is intended for short-term use only — two applications, 7 days apart, per treatment course. It is not designed for ongoing or preventative use. If lice persist after completing both treatments, speak to your pharmacist, as resistance to permethrin can occasionally occur and an alternative treatment may be needed.

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 Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

Most people tolerate Lyclear Treatment Shampoo well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Because the shampoo is applied topically and rinsed off after 10 minutes, systemic absorption of permethrin is minimal, which limits the risk of widespread side effects.

  • Mild scalp itching or irritation during or after application
  • Temporary burning or stinging sensation on the scalp
  • Redness or mild inflammation of the scalp
  • Tingling feeling that resolves after rinsing

It's worth knowing that some itching after treatment may simply be a response to the dying lice rather than a direct reaction to the shampoo itself. This is normal and should settle within a day or two.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

Less commonly, some people may experience a more pronounced skin reaction. If you notice any of the following, stop using the product and consult your pharmacist or GP.

  • Skin rash or hives (urticaria) on the scalp or surrounding skin
  • Increased scalp dryness or flaking after use
  • Localised swelling around the scalp or hairline
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally contacts the eyes

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur, particularly in people with a known allergy to permethrin or related compounds. Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a sudden widespread rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop use immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

Do not use this product again if you have previously had an allergic reaction to permethrin or any ingredient in the shampoo.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lyclear Treatment Shampoo?

For mild side effects such as scalp irritation or tingling, rinsing the hair thoroughly with cool water is usually sufficient. Avoid scratching the scalp, as this can worsen irritation. If symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours, speak to your pharmacist. For any signs of a serious allergic reaction, seek emergency medical help immediately.

You can report suspected side effects of any medicine in the UK via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Lyclear Treatment Shampoo Interact With Other Medicines?

Because permethrin is applied topically and rinsed off, clinically significant interactions with other medicines are unlikely. However, you should avoid using other scalp treatments, medicated shampoos, or hair products at the same time without first checking with your pharmacist. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

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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