Lyclear Dermal Cream 5% w/w – Scabies & Crab Lice Treatment
Lyclear Dermal Cream contains 5% permethrin, a clinically proven anti-parasitic pyrethroid that kills the mites and lice responsible for scabies and crab louse infections. A single overnight application is usually all that is needed, making it one of the most effective and convenient treatments available over the counter.
Suitable for adults and children from 2 months of age (under medical supervision for infants under 2 months).
Key Benefits
- Treats scabies and crab lice infestations
- Single application usually sufficient
- Works in 8–12 hours — ideal for overnight use
- Rubs into skin easily and absorbs well
- Available without prescription
- Suitable from 2 months of age (under supervision)
How to Use – Scabies
Apply to clean, dry, cool skin. Cover the entire body from the neck down, paying particular attention to: between fingers and toes, wrists and elbows, armpits, external genital area, buttocks, palms of hands, and soles of feet. Women should also apply to the breast area. Leave on for 8–12 hours, then wash off thoroughly.
Amount required by age:
- Adults and children over 12 years: 1 full 30g tube
- Children 6–12 years: ½ tube (15g)
- Children 2 months–5 years: ¼ tube (7.5g)
How to Use – Crab Lice
Apply to the pubic area, around the anus, inner thighs down to the knees, and hair on the lower trunk. Check facial hair and apply if lice or eggs are present. Leave on for 8–24 hours before washing off. Most people require approximately one-third of a tube.
Do not apply to eyebrows or eyelashes. Remove lice or eggs in these areas carefully with tweezers and seek medical advice if needed.
For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Always read the patient information leaflet before use.
Want to know more about scabies and its treatments? Read our blog post here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is one treatment enough for scabies?
Usually yes. However, treatment may be repeated after at least 14 days if symptoms persist, new lesions appear, or reinfestation is suspected.
When should treatment be repeated for crab lice?
If live lice are found 7 days after treatment, a second application should be carried out.
Should my partner or close contacts be treated?
Yes. Anyone with whom you have had close physical or sexual contact may also require treatment to prevent reinfestation.
Why am I still itchy after treatment?
Itching can continue for several weeks after successful treatment as the skin reacts to dead mites and their debris. This does not necessarily mean the treatment has failed. If symptoms worsen, new burrows appear, or itching persists beyond several weeks, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I use it on my eyebrows or eyelashes?
No. Do not apply to eyelashes or eyebrows. Lice or eggs in these areas should be carefully removed with tweezers.
Can older adults and children use this treatment?
Children under 18 years and adults over 70 years should be treated under appropriate medical supervision for crab lice treatment. Children under 2 months should only be treated under medical supervision.
What precautions should I take?
- For external use only
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes
- Do not use if allergic to permethrin or any other ingredient
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
How should I store Lyclear® Dermal Cream?
- Store below 25°C
- Do not freeze
- Do not dilute the cream
- Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
When should I seek medical advice?
Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms do not improve after treatment, new lesions appear, the infestation occurs in very young infants, the cream is accidentally swallowed, or you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Important Purchase Information
- You must be 18 years or older to purchase this medicine
- A pharmacist may contact you to ensure the product is suitable and safe for your use
- Supply is restricted to patients in the Republic of Ireland
Always read the package leaflet carefully before use and follow the instructions provided.