Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It leads to intense itching, especially at night, and a pimple-like skin rash. While scabies can affect anyone, it’s more common in crowded areas and among people with weakened immune systems. In this article, we’ll explore the best shampoos and treatments that can help kill scabies and provide relief from its symptoms.
Understanding Scabies and Its Symptoms
Before we dive into the shampoos that kill scabies, it’s essential to understand the condition and its symptoms. Scabies is caused by the female scabies mite, which burrows into the skin to lay eggs. The eggs hatch into larvae, which then mature into adult mites. The entire life cycle of the scabies mite takes around 10-15 days.
The symptoms of scabies include:
- Intense itching, especially at night
- A pimple-like skin rash, often in areas like the fingers, wrists, armpits, and genital area
- Small, raised bumps or blisters on the skin
- Sores or crusts on the skin due to scratching
Shampoos That Kill Scabies
While shampoos are not the primary treatment for scabies, they can be used to help kill the mites and relieve symptoms. Here are some shampoos that can be effective against scabies:
Permethrin Shampoo
Permethrin is a topical cream rinse that is commonly used to treat scabies. It’s available over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription. Permethrin shampoo is applied to the hair and scalp, left on for 10 minutes, and then rinsed off. It’s essential to repeat the treatment in 7-10 days to ensure that all mites are killed.
Lindane Shampoo
Lindane is another OTC shampoo that can be used to treat scabies. However, it’s not recommended for children under two years old, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions. Lindane shampoo is applied to the hair and scalp, left on for 4 minutes, and then rinsed off.
Crotamiton Shampoo
Crotamiton is an OTC shampoo that can be used to treat scabies. It’s applied to the hair and scalp, left on for 20-30 minutes, and then rinsed off. However, it’s essential to note that crotamiton may not be as effective as permethrin or lindane in killing scabies mites.
Home Remedies for Scabies
In addition to shampoos, there are several home remedies that can help relieve scabies symptoms and kill the mites. Here are some of the most effective home remedies:
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiparasitic and antifungal properties that can help kill scabies mites. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply it to the affected area.
Sulfur Soap
Sulfur soap has been used for centuries to treat scabies. It’s available OTC and can be applied to the affected area, left on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinsed off.
Neem Oil
Neem oil has antiparasitic properties that can help kill scabies mites. Mix a few drops of neem oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply it to the affected area.
Prescription Treatments for Scabies
In severe cases of scabies, prescription treatments may be necessary. Here are some of the most effective prescription treatments:
Ivermectin
Ivermectin is an oral medication that can be used to treat scabies. It’s available by prescription only and is usually taken in two doses, 7-10 days apart.
Permethrin Cream
Permethrin cream is a topical treatment that can be used to treat scabies. It’s available by prescription only and is applied to the affected area, left on for 8-14 hours, and then rinsed off.
Preventing Scabies
Preventing scabies is crucial, especially in crowded areas and among people with weakened immune systems. Here are some tips to prevent scabies:
- Avoid close contact with people who have scabies
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on high heat
- Dry-clean or seal in a plastic bag for 3-7 days any items that can’t be washed
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, especially in areas where the person with scabies has been
Conclusion
Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation that can cause intense itching and a pimple-like skin rash. While shampoos can be used to help kill scabies mites, they are not the primary treatment. Permethrin, lindane, and crotamiton shampoos are effective against scabies, but it’s essential to repeat the treatment in 7-10 days to ensure that all mites are killed. Home remedies like tea tree oil, sulfur soap, and neem oil can also help relieve scabies symptoms and kill the mites. In severe cases, prescription treatments like ivermectin and permethrin cream may be necessary. By understanding scabies and its symptoms, using effective treatments, and taking preventive measures, you can help kill scabies mites and relieve symptoms.
| Shampoo | Active Ingredient | Application Time | Repeat Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permethrin Shampoo | Permethrin | 10 minutes | 7-10 days |
| Lindane Shampoo | Lindane | 4 minutes | 7-10 days |
| Crotamiton Shampoo | Crotamiton | 20-30 minutes | 7-10 days |
Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. If you suspect you have scabies, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is the best shampoo to kill scabies?
The best shampoo to kill scabies is one that contains permethrin, an insecticide that is commonly used to treat scabies. Permethrin shampoos, such as Nix or Rid, are available over-the-counter (OTC) and are effective in killing scabies mites and their eggs. These shampoos typically require a 10-minute application before rinsing, and may need to be repeated in 7-10 days to ensure that all mites are eliminated.
It’s essential to note that while permethrin shampoos are effective, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially young children, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any scabies treatment, especially if you have a weakened immune system or are taking medications that may interact with permethrin.
Can I use regular shampoo to treat scabies?
No, regular shampoos are not effective in treating scabies. Regular shampoos are designed to clean the hair and scalp, but they do not contain the necessary ingredients to kill scabies mites. In fact, using regular shampoo alone may even spread the scabies mites to other parts of the body, making the infestation worse. To effectively treat scabies, you need a shampoo that contains an insecticide, such as permethrin or lindane.
Additionally, regular shampoos may not be able to penetrate the skin deeply enough to reach the scabies mites, which burrow into the skin to lay their eggs. Permethrin shampoos, on the other hand, are specifically designed to penetrate the skin and kill the mites and their eggs, making them a more effective treatment option.
How do I use a permethrin shampoo to treat scabies?
To use a permethrin shampoo to treat scabies, start by washing your hair with a regular shampoo to remove any dirt or oil. Then, apply the permethrin shampoo to your hair and scalp, making sure to cover all areas thoroughly. Leave the shampoo on for 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Be sure to rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly to remove all of the shampoo.
It’s also essential to wash your clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on a hot setting to kill any scabies mites that may have fallen off your body. This will help prevent re-infestation and ensure that the treatment is effective. You may also need to repeat the treatment in 7-10 days to ensure that all mites are eliminated.
Are there any home remedies that can help treat scabies?
Yes, there are several home remedies that may help treat scabies, although it’s essential to note that these remedies may not be as effective as permethrin shampoos. One home remedy is to use tea tree oil, which has antiparasitic properties that may help kill scabies mites. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and apply it to the affected area.
Another home remedy is to use sulfur powder, which has been used for centuries to treat scabies. Mix the sulfur powder with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area, leaving it on for 24 hours before washing it off. However, it’s essential to note that these home remedies may not be suitable for everyone, especially young children or people with sensitive skin.
Can I use lindane shampoo to treat scabies?
Lindane shampoo is another option for treating scabies, although it is not as commonly used as permethrin shampoos. Lindane shampoo is available by prescription only and is typically used to treat scabies in people who are allergic to permethrin or have not responded to permethrin treatment. However, lindane shampoo can have serious side effects, such as seizures and neurological problems, especially in young children and people with certain medical conditions.
Due to the potential risks associated with lindane shampoo, it’s essential to use it only under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, lindane shampoo may not be as effective as permethrin shampoos in killing scabies mites, and may require repeated treatments to ensure that all mites are eliminated.
How long does it take to get rid of scabies with shampoo treatment?
The length of time it takes to get rid of scabies with shampoo treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the effectiveness of the treatment. Typically, permethrin shampoos can kill scabies mites and their eggs within 10-15 minutes of application. However, it may take several days or even weeks to completely eliminate the mites and relieve symptoms.
It’s essential to repeat the treatment in 7-10 days to ensure that all mites are eliminated, as scabies mites can survive off the human body for up to 72 hours. Additionally, it’s crucial to wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on a hot setting to prevent re-infestation.
Can I use scabies shampoo on my children?
Permethrin shampoos are generally safe for use in children over 2 months old, although it’s essential to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any scabies treatment on children. For children under 2 months old, it’s recommended to use a different treatment, such as a cream or lotion, that is specifically designed for infants.
When using permethrin shampoo on children, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid applying the shampoo to the face, eyes, or mouth. Additionally, be sure to rinse the shampoo thoroughly to prevent any irritation or allergic reactions. It’s also essential to wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on a hot setting to prevent re-infestation.