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Permethrin (Lyclear) 5% Cream - 30g (brand may vary)

Permethrin (Lyclear) 5% Cream - 30g (brand may vary)

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  • ✔️ Clinically proven first-line treatment for scabies infestations
  • ✔️ Kills scabies mites and reduces egg viability effectively
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged two months and over
  • ✔️ Full-body coverage in one convenient 30g tube
  • ✔️ Two-application course clears most infestations within weeks

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What Is Permethrin 5% Cream and How Does It Treat Scabies?

 

Permethrin 5% cream is a clinically established topical treatment for scabies — a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Scabies spreads through prolonged skin-to-skin contact and causes intense itching, particularly at night, along with a characteristic rash. It affects people of all ages and backgrounds, and it's more common than many people realise. According to the NHS, scabies is treated with insecticide creams or lotions, with permethrin being the first-line recommended option. You can find this and other topical treatments in our creams and ointments collection.

Each 30g tube contains permethrin at a concentration of 5% w/w. One tube is typically sufficient to treat one adult. The brand may vary — you may receive Lyclear or an equivalent licensed generic — but the active ingredient and strength remain the same.

 

How Does Permethrin 5% Cream Work Against Scabies Mites?

 

Permethrin belongs to a class of medicines called pyrethroids. It works by targeting the nervous system of the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Specifically, it disrupts sodium channel function in the mite's nerve cell membranes, causing prolonged depolarisation — essentially paralysing and killing the parasite. It also has ovicidal activity, meaning it can kill mite eggs as well as adult mites, which is why a second application one week later is often recommended to catch any newly hatched mites.

  • Binds to voltage-gated sodium channels in mite nerve cells
  • Prevents normal nerve signal transmission
  • Causes paralysis and death of adult mites
  • Reduces viability of mite eggs (ovicidal effect)

 

Who Is Permethrin 5% Cream Suitable For?

 

This cream is suitable for most adults and children aged 2 months and over who have been diagnosed with scabies. It's also used to treat close contacts of an infected person, even if they have no symptoms yet — because scabies can be present for weeks before itching begins. The NHS recommends treating all household members and close contacts at the same time to prevent re-infestation.

  • Adults and teenagers with confirmed or suspected scabies
  • Children aged 2 months and over (under medical guidance for infants)
  • Household contacts of someone with scabies, whether symptomatic or not
  • People who have had close physical contact with an infected individual

 

How Does Permethrin 5% Cream Compare to Other Scabies Treatments?

 

Feature Permethrin 5% Cream Malathion 0.5% Liquid
First-line NHS recommendation Yes Second-line
Application method Cream, applied to whole body Aqueous liquid, applied to whole body
Suitable age 2 months and over 6 months and over (check product)
Contact time 8–12 hours 24 hours

 

How Should You Store Permethrin 5% Cream and Is It Right for You?

 

Store the cream below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have sensitive or broken skin, speak to your pharmacist before using this product. It is not suitable for people with known hypersensitivity to permethrin, any pyrethroid, or pyrethrin. If you're also managing other skin conditions, browse our skin care range for complementary products.

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.

Permethrin 5% Cream (Lyclear) 30g specifications
Treatment category Scabies and parasitic skin infestations
Active ingredient Permethrin 5% w/w
Mechanism of action Pyrethroid insecticide — disrupts mite nerve cell sodium channels
Effective against Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies mite)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 2 months and over
Pack size 30g tube
Strength 5% w/w
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Pyrethroid insecticide
Preparation Topical cream
Route of administration Topical (applied to skin)

Specifications of Permethrin 5% Cream (Lyclear) 30g

 

What Is Permethrin 5% Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Permethrin 5% cream is a topical antiparasitic medicine used to treat scabies — an infestation of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The mites burrow into the outer layers of skin, laying eggs and causing an intensely itchy rash. The NHS identifies permethrin cream as the first-choice treatment for scabies in the UK. It is available over the counter from a registered pharmacy without a prescription.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Permethrin 5% Cream?

 

Before applying this cream, read the following carefully. Not everyone is suitable for this treatment without medical advice first.

Do not use permethrin 5% cream if you:

  • Are allergic to permethrin, any pyrethroid insecticide, or pyrethrin
  • Have an allergy to any other ingredient in the cream (check the PIL for excipients)
  • Are treating an infant under 2 months old without medical supervision

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have severely broken, infected, or inflamed skin
  • Have a known history of epilepsy or seizures (avoid large-area application without advice)
  • Are treating a young child or elderly person

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions are known at topical doses
  • Avoid applying alongside other topical medicines to the same area without pharmacist guidance

 

How Should You Use Permethrin 5% Cream?

 

Correct application is essential for the treatment to work. Follow these steps carefully. If you are unsure, ask your pharmacist — they can walk you through the process.

  1. Wash and dry your skin thoroughly before applying. Allow skin to cool completely (do not apply immediately after a hot bath).
  2. Apply the cream to the entire body surface from the neck downwards, including between fingers and toes, under fingernails, the soles of feet, and the genital area.
  3. In children under 2 years, elderly patients, and immunocompromised individuals, also apply to the face, scalp, and neck — avoiding the eyes and mouth.
  4. Leave the cream on for 8 to 12 hours (overnight application is ideal).
  5. Wash the cream off thoroughly after the contact period.
  6. Apply a second treatment 7 days later to catch any newly hatched mites.
  7. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used in the 48 hours before treatment at 50°C or above.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Scabies Adults and children ≥2 months Apply to whole body (up to 30g per application) Two applications, 7 days apart
Scabies (young children/elderly) Under 2 years / elderly Apply to whole body including face and scalp Two applications, 7 days apart

If you are treating multiple household members — which the NHS strongly recommends — you may need more than one tube. Browse our skin care collection for additional products to support skin recovery after treatment.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Permethrin 5% Cream?

 

Like all medicines, permethrin 5% cream can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. It's worth noting that some symptoms — particularly itching — may actually be a sign that the treatment is working, as the body reacts to dead mites.

Common side effects:

  • Mild itching at the application site
  • Burning or stinging sensation on the skin
  • Temporary skin redness or rash

Less common side effects:

  • Skin numbness or tingling
  • Worsening of existing eczema
  • Oedema (swelling) at the application site
  • Allergic contact dermatitis (rare)

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare but require immediate medical attention. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash. Stop using the cream and call 999 if this occurs. If you're also managing a skin condition such as a fungal infection alongside scabies, see our athletes foot and fungal infections range for relevant treatments.

 

How Should You Store Permethrin 5% Cream?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product 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 permethrin 5% cream online in the UK?

You can buy permethrin 5% cream directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, without a prescription. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, meaning it is available over the counter but sold under pharmacist supervision. Simply add it to your basket and complete a short health questionnaire to ensure it is appropriate for you.

How does permethrin 5% cream work in the body?

Permethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide that works by binding to voltage-gated sodium channels in the nerve cell membranes of the scabies mite. This disrupts normal nerve signal transmission, causing paralysis and death of the mite. It also has some activity against mite eggs, which is why two applications one week apart are recommended.

How do I apply permethrin 5% cream step by step?

Wash and dry your skin, then allow it to cool before applying. Apply the cream from the neck downwards to every part of the body, including between fingers and toes, under nails, and the genital area. Leave it on for 8 to 12 hours — overnight is ideal — then wash it off thoroughly and repeat the process seven days later.

How long does permethrin 5% cream take to work?

Permethrin kills the scabies mites during the application period, but itching can persist for up to four weeks after successful treatment. This is a normal immune response to dead mites and eggs remaining in the skin, not a sign that the treatment has failed. If itching continues beyond four weeks or worsens, speak to your GP.

What is the correct dose of permethrin 5% cream for adults?

For adults, apply up to the full 30g tube across the entire body surface from the neck downwards. The treatment is applied twice — once initially and again seven days later. One 30g tube is generally sufficient for one adult application, so you may need two tubes for the full course.

Can children use permethrin 5% cream safely?

Yes, permethrin 5% cream is suitable for children aged 2 months and over. In young children under 2 years, the cream should also be applied to the face, scalp, and neck — unlike in adults — while carefully avoiding the eyes and mouth. For infants under 2 months, only use under direct medical supervision. You can find further child-appropriate health products in our baby and toddler collection.

Is permethrin 5% cream safe to use during pregnancy?

Permethrin is generally considered to carry a low risk during pregnancy, as systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. However, you should always consult your GP or midwife before using any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can confirm whether this is the most appropriate treatment for your situation.

What are the side effects of permethrin 5% cream and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are mild skin irritation, itching, burning, or stinging at the application site — these usually resolve on their own within a few days. Applying a simple, fragrance-free moisturiser after washing off the cream can help soothe the skin. If you experience severe redness, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop using the cream and seek medical advice promptly.

Who is eligible to use permethrin 5% cream?

Most adults and children aged 2 months and over with confirmed or suspected scabies are eligible to use this cream. It is also recommended for all close household contacts of an infected person, even if they have no symptoms. People with known allergies to pyrethroids or pyrethrin should not use this product and should speak to their GP about alternatives.

What happens if I miss the second application of permethrin cream?

The second application, applied seven days after the first, is important because it targets any mites that hatched from eggs after the initial treatment. If you miss it, apply the cream as soon as you remember — ideally within a day or two of the scheduled date. If significant time has passed, speak to your pharmacist for guidance on whether to restart the course.

What are the alternatives to permethrin 5% cream for scabies?

The main alternative topical treatment for scabies in the UK is malathion 0.5% aqueous liquid, which is used as a second-line option when permethrin is not suitable or has not worked. In severe or crusted (Norwegian) scabies, a GP may prescribe oral ivermectin. Your pharmacist can advise on which option is most appropriate for your circumstances.

How long do you need to use permethrin cream for scabies?

The standard course consists of two applications — the first on day one and the second on day seven. Beyond this, further applications are not routinely recommended unless advised by a GP. If symptoms persist after completing both applications, you should seek medical review rather than applying additional doses independently.

Do I need to treat everyone in my household at the same time?

Yes — the NHS strongly recommends that all members of the same household and any close physical contacts are treated simultaneously, even if they have no symptoms. Scabies can be present for up to six weeks before itching begins, so untreated contacts can re-infect you. Treating everyone at the same time breaks the cycle of transmission.

What are the latest studies on permethrin cream for scabies?

Permethrin 5% cream remains the most widely studied and recommended topical treatment for scabies globally. Clinical evidence consistently supports its efficacy as a first-line agent, with cure rates typically reported above 90% following two applications. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to recommend it as the preferred first-line treatment for scabies in the UK.

Can I use permethrin cream if I have eczema or sensitive skin?

If you have eczema or particularly sensitive skin, you should speak to your pharmacist or GP before using permethrin 5% cream, as it may cause additional irritation on already inflamed skin. In some cases, a short course of a mild topical corticosteroid may be recommended alongside scabies treatment to manage eczema flares. Browse our skin care range for supportive products.

How Should You Use Permethrin 5% Cream?

Before applying, wash your entire body with soap and water and allow your skin to cool and dry completely — applying to warm or damp skin can increase absorption and reduce effectiveness. It's important to apply the cream methodically so no area is missed.

Wash all clothing, towels, and bed linen used in the 48 hours before treatment at 50°C or above to prevent re-infestation.

What Is the Correct Dose of Permethrin 5% Cream?

The dose depends on the patient's age and body surface area. One 30g tube is typically sufficient for a single full-body application in an average adult. You will need two tubes to complete the full two-application course. Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet supplied with your product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Permethrin 5% Cream?

Evening application is widely recommended because it allows the cream to remain on the skin for the full 8 to 12 hours overnight without disruption. Applying before bed also makes it easier to avoid washing hands prematurely, which is a common reason for treatment failure — if you must wash your hands during the contact period, reapply cream to them immediately afterwards.

Avoid applying the cream immediately after a hot bath or shower, as warm skin increases blood flow and may enhance systemic absorption. Allow your skin to cool for at least 30 minutes first.

How Long Can You Use Permethrin 5% Cream For?

The standard treatment course is two applications, seven days apart. This is sufficient for the vast majority of uncomplicated scabies cases. You should not apply additional doses beyond the recommended course without medical advice, as repeated unnecessary use is not beneficial and may cause skin irritation.

Itching may persist for up to four weeks after completing treatment — this is a normal immune response and does not indicate ongoing infestation. If symptoms have not improved after four weeks, or if new burrows appear, consult your GP rather than repeating the treatment independently.

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 Permethrin 5% Cream?

Most people tolerate permethrin 5% cream well, but some mild skin reactions at the application site are not unusual. These are generally short-lived and resolve without treatment once the cream is washed off.

  • Itching or pruritus at the application site
  • Burning or stinging sensation on the skin
  • Temporary skin redness (erythema)
  • Mild rash at the site of application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Permethrin 5% Cream?

A smaller number of people may experience more noticeable skin reactions. These are still generally mild but worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Numbness or tingling of the skin (paraesthesia)
  • Oedema (localised swelling) at the application site
  • Worsening of pre-existing eczema or dermatitis
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Skin discomfort or tenderness

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Permethrin 5% Cream?

Serious adverse reactions to permethrin 5% cream are rare. However, a small number of people may experience a hypersensitivity or allergic reaction. Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid heartbeat, or a widespread severe rash. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the cream immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department without delay.

It is also worth noting that itching after treatment is very common and does not necessarily indicate a side effect or treatment failure. The body's immune response to dead mites and their eggs can cause itching for up to four weeks after a successful course of treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild skin irritation, burning, or stinging, you can apply a simple, fragrance-free emollient or moisturiser to soothe the skin after washing off the cream. Avoid scratching, as this can break the skin and increase the risk of secondary bacterial infection. If irritation is severe or does not settle within a few days, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice.

You should report any suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety monitoring in the UK.

Can Permethrin 5% Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been identified with permethrin 5% cream at standard topical doses, as systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. However, you should avoid applying other topical medicines to the same skin areas at the same time without pharmacist guidance, as this could affect absorption or cause local irritation. Always inform your pharmacist of any other medicines you are using, including over-the-counter products and herbal remedies.

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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