Do You Put Scabies Cream in Your Hair?

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Do You Put Scabies Cream in Your Hair? Understanding and Treating Scalp Infestations

No, you generally should not put scabies cream in your hair. While scabies can sometimes infest the scalp, standard scabies cream (permethrin 5%) is typically not formulated or recommended for use on the scalp or hair unless specifically directed by a doctor.

Understanding Scabies and Its Symptoms

Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. These microscopic mites burrow into the skin, lay eggs, and cause intense itching, particularly at night. While scabies commonly affects areas like the hands, wrists, elbows, and genitals, it can also, though less frequently, infest the scalp. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Intense itching, especially at night.
Tiny, raised bumps or blisters.
Burrow tracks visible on the skin.
Crusted scabies (in severe cases, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems).

Scabies on the Scalp: Is It Common?

While scabies predominantly affects other areas of the body, scalp involvement can occur, especially in infants, young children, and elderly individuals with weakened immune systems or other medical conditions. When scabies infests the scalp, it can manifest as intense itching, redness, and small bumps or pustules. It can be easily mistaken for other conditions like dandruff, eczema, or psoriasis.

Why Standard Scabies Cream Isn’t Usually for the Hair

Standard scabies creams, like permethrin 5%, are designed for application to the skin below the neck. There are several reasons why they are generally not recommended for use on the scalp and hair:

Concentration: The concentration may be too strong for the sensitive skin of the scalp.
Application Difficulty: Applying cream evenly to the scalp and ensuring it reaches the burrowing mites can be challenging due to the presence of hair.
Rinse-Out: Permethrin creams are typically washed off after a specific period, which may be difficult to achieve thoroughly with thick hair.
Alternative Treatments: There are other medications (discussed below) that are more suitable for treating scalp scabies.

Alternative Treatments for Scalp Scabies

If you suspect scabies on your scalp, it’s essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Some alternative or complementary approaches may be considered, although their effectiveness might vary:

Oral Ivermectin: This medication is often prescribed for widespread or crusted scabies and can effectively treat scalp infestations.
Lindane Shampoo: This shampoo used to be common, but due to concerns over neurotoxicity, it’s usually reserved for cases where other treatments have failed and used under strict medical supervision.
Specialized Topical Creams: A doctor might prescribe a specific cream or lotion formulated for use on the scalp.
Supportive Care: This includes treating any secondary skin infections, managing itching with antihistamines, and washing bedding and clothing in hot water.

The Correct Application of Scabies Cream (For Body Use)

While you generally don’t put scabies cream in your hair, it’s useful to understand the correct application for the body. If you do, it’s important to know the correct approach.

Shower and dry your skin.
Apply the cream from the neck down to the toes. Be sure to cover all skin surfaces, including between fingers and toes, under nails, and in skin folds.
Leave the cream on for the recommended time (usually 8-14 hours).
Wash off the cream thoroughly.
Repeat the treatment as directed by your doctor, usually after one week.

Preventing the Spread of Scabies

Preventing the spread of scabies is critical to controlling outbreaks. Here are some essential steps:

Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry them on high heat.
Vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals until they have completed treatment.
Inform close contacts (family members, partners) to seek treatment as well, even if they don’t have symptoms.
Treat all household members and close contacts simultaneously.
Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours, as the mites cannot survive without a host.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

Many misconceptions surround scabies and its treatment. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Self-treating without a diagnosis: It’s crucial to see a doctor for confirmation and proper treatment guidance.
Applying the cream only to the itchy areas: Scabies mites can be present on seemingly unaffected skin, so it’s vital to apply the cream to the entire body below the neck.
Not treating all contacts: Failure to treat all household members and close contacts can lead to re-infestation.
Using the cream more often or for longer than directed: This can cause skin irritation and may not improve the effectiveness of treatment.
Thinking scabies is a sign of poor hygiene: Anyone can get scabies, regardless of their hygiene practices.
Assuming over-the-counter remedies are sufficient: While some over-the-counter creams can provide temporary relief from itching, they do not kill the scabies mites.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have scabies. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infestation from worsening and spreading to others. Consult a doctor if you experience:

Intense itching that persists or worsens.
Small, raised bumps or blisters on your skin.
Symptoms of scabies on your scalp.
Signs of a secondary skin infection (redness, swelling, pus).
If over-the-counter treatments for itching are not providing relief.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can scabies live in hair?

While scabies mites primarily burrow into the skin, they can occasionally be found on the scalp and, therefore, near the hair. However, they don’t live within the hair shaft itself.

What does scabies look like on the scalp?

On the scalp, scabies can manifest as small, itchy bumps or pustules, redness, and scaling. It can easily be mistaken for other conditions like dandruff or eczema.

Is it safe to use permethrin cream on my scalp if I dilute it?

Diluting permethrin cream yourself is generally not recommended because it can alter the effectiveness of the medication and may still cause skin irritation. Always follow a doctor’s instructions.

Can I get scabies from sharing a comb or hairbrush?

While possible, it’s less likely to contract scabies from sharing combs or brushes because the mites prefer to be on human skin. However, it’s still good practice to avoid sharing personal items to prevent the spread of any skin conditions.

How long does it take for scabies to go away after treatment?

Itching may persist for up to several weeks even after successful treatment. If the itching is severe or if new bumps appear, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

What are the signs that scabies treatment has failed?

Signs that treatment has failed include continued itching, the appearance of new burrows or bumps, or a lack of improvement after several weeks.

Do pets get scabies?

Pets can get a different type of mite infestation called mange, but it’s usually caused by a different species of mite than human scabies. While rarely transmissible, consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has mange.

How often should I wash my bedding if I have scabies?

Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry on high heat every day during treatment and for at least 3 days afterward to kill any mites that may be present.

Are there any natural remedies for scabies?

While some natural remedies, like tea tree oil, may provide temporary relief from itching, they are not proven to effectively kill scabies mites and should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment.

Can I use a hair dryer to kill scabies mites in my hair?

While high heat can kill scabies mites, using a hair dryer is unlikely to be effective because it’s difficult to maintain a sufficiently high temperature on the scalp for an extended period. It also carries a risk of burns.

How long can scabies mites live off a human host?

Scabies mites can typically survive off a human host for about 24-36 hours under normal conditions.

**If I think I have scabies, Do You Put Scabies Cream in Your Hair? or just on my body?**

As emphasized, it’s generally not recommended to put scabies cream in your hair unless specifically directed by a doctor. If you suspect you have scalp involvement, seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that may include oral medication or a specialized topical treatment for the scalp.