Skin Treatments

Treatments for the skin problems we see every day: Acnecide for spots, Canesten and Daktarin for fungal infections and thrush, hydrocortisone for itchy flares, Lyclear for head lice, Bio-Oil for scars and Epaderm for very dry skin. Pharmacist advice on using each properly.

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Using skin treatments properly

Spots and acne

Acnecide 5% (benzoyl peroxide) kills acne bacteria and unblocks pores. Start on alternate nights with a thin layer over the whole affected area, not just the spots, and build to nightly over two weeks. It bleaches towels and pillowcases, so use white ones. Expect eight weeks for a real difference. Moderate or scarring acne needs a GP.

Fungal skin infections

Ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch and fungal rashes under skin folds respond to clotrimazole (Canesten) or miconazole (Daktarin) cream twice daily. Continue for two weeks after the rash clears. Daktarin powder keeps moist areas dry.

Thrush

Canesten Combi gives a single internal treatment (pessary or soft capsule) plus cream for external itch, and clears most thrush in a few days. Thrush that recurs more than four times a year, in pregnancy, or in anyone under 16 or over 60 needs a GP first.

Itchy flares, bites and mild eczema

1% hydrocortisone (HC45, Cortopin) twice a day for up to seven days calms inflamed, itchy patches. Not on the face, broken skin or in children under ten without advice.

Head lice

Lyclear kills lice and eggs on contact without insecticide, in one application. Repeat after seven days, comb through with a fine comb, and check the whole household. Lyclear Treat & Protect spray helps prevent reinfestation during an outbreak at school.

Scars, stretch marks and very dry skin

Bio-Oil, massaged in twice daily for at least three months, improves the appearance of newer scars and stretch marks. Epaderm is a heavy emollient for severely dry or eczema-prone skin and can also be used as a soap substitute.

Mouth ulcers and teething

Bonjela adult gel numbs and treats mouth ulcers; Anbesol liquid is useful for denture sores and ulcers. Neither adult product is for babies.

See a GP for: a mole that is changing, a rash with fever, a spreading red hot area of skin, or any skin problem not improving after two weeks of treatment.

Common questions about skin treatments

How do I use Acnecide without it irritating my skin?

Start with a thin layer every second night, build to nightly over two weeks, use a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturiser, and daily SPF. Some dryness in the first weeks is normal; peeling and burning mean you are using too much.

How quickly does Canesten work for thrush?

Itching usually eases within a day of the internal treatment and symptoms clear in two to three days. If nothing has improved after seven days, or it keeps coming back, see a GP as it may not be thrush.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my face?

Only on advice and for a few days. Facial skin is thin and steroid creams can damage it with repeated use. Ask us about alternatives for facial redness or eczema.

Does Lyclear kill head lice eggs?

Yes, Lyclear Express kills both lice and eggs in one application. Repeat after seven days to catch any that hatched, and comb through with a fine-toothed comb to check.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.