Before using Lyclear or any other medication, consult with a healthcare provider. Information in this article is for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice.
What is Lyclear and its Active Ingredient?
Lyclear is a brand name for topical medications primarily used to treat parasitic skin infestations. Its active ingredient, permethrin, is a synthetic insecticide belonging to the pyrethroid family. These compounds are modeled after naturally occurring insecticides found in chrysanthemum flowers. Lyclear comes in different formulations, such as a dermal cream for treating scabies and crab lice, and a creme rinse for head lice. The specific formulation determines its use and application method.
How Does Lyclear Work?
The permethrin in Lyclear works by attacking the nervous system of the parasites. When applied to the skin or hair, it interacts with the sodium channels in the nerve cells of the mites and lice, leading to neuromuscular paralysis and ultimately, death. The treatment is also effective against the eggs, preventing a new infestation from hatching. This dual-action approach makes Lyclear highly effective in eliminating the problem at its source and providing relief from the intense itching and irritation.
Different Lyclear Products and Their Uses
There are several Lyclear products on the market, each formulated for a specific type of infestation. It is crucial to use the correct product for the condition you are treating.
- Lyclear Dermal Cream: This formulation is commonly used for treating scabies and crab lice infestations. For scabies, it requires full-body application, while for crab lice, it is applied to affected hair-bearing areas.
- Lyclear Creme Rinse: This product is specifically designed for treating head lice and is applied to the scalp and hair.
- Lyclear Treatment Shampoo/Spray/Lotion: Some Lyclear products for head lice use a physical mode of action to suffocate and dehydrate the lice rather than relying solely on insecticide, which helps prevent resistance.
How to Use Lyclear Dermal Cream for Scabies
Proper application is essential for the success of Lyclear treatment for scabies. A single application is often enough, but a second treatment may be needed in some cases as directed by a healthcare professional.
- Preparation: Take a cool bath or shower and dry your skin thoroughly before application. Avoid hot water, as it can increase absorption.
- Application: Apply a thin, even layer of the cream to your entire body from the neck down, including the soles of the feet and palms of the hands as directed by a healthcare professional or product instructions. Pay special attention to:
- The skin between fingers and toes
- Creases of the wrists, elbows, and armpits
- External genitalia and buttocks
- Skin under the fingernails and toenails (use a toothpick)
- Duration: Leave the cream on for the recommended duration as specified by the product instructions or a healthcare professional. If you must wash your hands during this period, reapply the cream to the washed areas.
- Washing Off: After the recommended time, wash the cream off with soap and water.
Treating Head Lice with Lyclear
Head lice treatment requires a different application method than for scabies, typically using a shampoo or rinse formulation.
- Check: Check dry hair strand by strand with the provided anti-lice comb to confirm the infestation.
- Apply: Apply enough Lyclear treatment shampoo evenly to dry hair, ensuring the scalp and all hair are covered as directed by the product instructions.
- Massage and Wait: Massage the product in thoroughly, especially behind the ears and on the nape of the neck. Leave on for the specified duration.
- Comb and Rinse: Before rinsing, comb through the hair with a nit comb to remove dead lice and eggs. Then, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Repeat: A second application after a specific interval may be necessary to kill any newly hatched lice, as directed by a healthcare professional or product instructions.
Management of the Environment
To prevent reinfestation, it is critical to treat the living environment at the same time as treating individuals.
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels that have been used recently in hot water (at least 60°C or 140°F).
- Dry clean any items that cannot be washed.
- Seal non-washable items, such as stuffed toys, in plastic bags for a specified period.
- Vacuum all carpets and upholstery thoroughly.
Lyclear Compared to Other Treatments
| Feature | Lyclear (Permethrin) Cream | Ivermectin (Oral Tablets) | Benzyl Benzoate Solution | Malathion Lotion (Prioderm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Neurotoxin that paralyzes and kills parasites | Paralyzes and kills parasites systemically | Antiseptic and antiparasitic agent | Organophosphate that kills parasites |
| Application | Topical cream applied to the skin | Oral tablets | Topical emulsion applied to the skin | Topical lotion for the scalp |
| Scabies Treatment | Full-body application left on for a specific duration | Used when topical treatments fail or for crusted scabies | Requires multiple applications | Less commonly used for scabies now |
| Head Lice Treatment | Cream rinse or other formulations applied to hair | Generally not used for head lice | Used for head and body lice | Effective against lice, can be irritating |
| Suitable for Pregnant/Nursing? | Consult doctor | Not recommended | Safe to use | Consult doctor |
| Side Effects | Mild stinging, itching, redness, tingling | Dizziness, nausea, fever | Skin irritation, stinging | Skin irritation, flammability |
What to Expect and Potential Side Effects
After treating an infestation with Lyclear, some side effects may occur, although they are generally mild and temporary.
- Itching and Irritation: A slight stinging or burning sensation is common during or shortly after application. Itching may also persist for a period after successful treatment, which is a normal reaction to the dead mites and not a sign of failure. Moisturizers can help alleviate this post-scabies eczema.
- Rashes and Redness: Skin redness or a rash can also occur.
- Tingling or Numbness (Paraesthesia): Some people may experience unusual sensations like tingling or prickling on the skin.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, more severe reactions like blistering, reddening, or urticaria may indicate an allergy. Immediately contact a doctor if this occurs.
- Headaches: Headaches have been reported but are rare.
Conclusion
Lyclear, with its active ingredient permethrin, offers a highly effective and proven solution for treating common parasitic infestations such as scabies and lice. By paralyzing and killing the parasites and their eggs, it provides reliable relief from the associated symptoms. However, successful treatment depends on correct application, treating all close contacts, and thoroughly cleaning the environment to prevent reinfestation. While side effects are typically mild, it is crucial to follow the instructions carefully, consider all precautions, and consult a healthcare professional, especially for young children or during pregnancy. Adherence to these guidelines ensures Lyclear delivers its full therapeutic benefits.
Note: Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a pharmacist or doctor before using Lyclear.
