Permethrin 5% w/w Dermal Cream

Scabies mites are tiny insects that live in the upper layers of human skin. They cause scabies, an itchy skin condition with a rash of red, bumpy bumps. Scabies mites are spread through close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or through sharing contaminated items such as bedding or clothing.

The condition is common and can cause discomfort, but applying itch relief creams can kill the insects and cure your symptoms.

Crab lice, also known as pubic lice, are tiny insects that live in the coarse hair found on the pubic area, chest, armpits, and sometimes the eyelashes and eyebrows. They spread through close sexual contact and can cause intense itching in the affected area.

An anti-itch cream can relieve symptoms, but Permethrin Dermal Cream can treat crab lice and kill them off.

Open the tube and put the cream over cool and dry skin, avoiding the eyes. Once you rub it in, the cream will dissolve into the skin and can be applied over the entire body. Remember, you're using it to treat infestations, and the active ingredient, Permethrin, will kill the insects it comes into contact with.

Here are the instructions according to age:

People over 12: Use one 30g of cream to cover the body, avoiding the head and facial areas. You can use up to two tubes in one application if required.

Children 6-12: Use 15g (half a tube) of Permethrin Dermal Cream to cover the body – apart from the face and head.

Children 2-5: 7.5 grams (a quarter of a tube) should be more than enough to cover the body – apart from the head and face.

Children 1-2: Use 7.5 grams, but apply cream to the scalp, ears and face – avoiding the mouth and eyes.

Children aged 2 Months – 1 Year: Apply one-eighth of the tube to the entire body, including the face, scalp and ears, avoiding the mouth and eyes.

Adults over 65: Apply an entire tube of cream to the face, neck, head and ears.

Adults with crab lice can apply the cream carefully to their external genitalia to relieve symptoms.

You should seek advice from your doctor before using the cream. As Permethrin needs to be applied over the entire body – including the breasts, it might not be suitable for new mothers. There might be more suitable solutions for treating infestations, and your doctor or a registered pharmacist can advise you.

The cream isn't suitable for children under two months old unless specifically prescribed by your GP. Do not use Permethrin Cream if you're allergic to any of the ingredients, including Compositae (the daisy family of flowers).

While the treatment is fine for your skin rash, you shouldn't use it on broken skin as it can cause further inflammation and discomfort. If you notice increased irritation, stop using it and speak to your doctor.