How to Use Nix to Get Rid of Scabies
Scabies is an infectious disease caused by the microscopic human itch mite. Its scientific name is Sarcoptes scabiei var hominus, and is closely related to the mite that causes one version of mange in dogs. The mite burrows into the skin where it feeds and lays eggs. Its excrement, eggs, and the mites themselves causes an allergic reaction, leading to red spots and intense itching. Nix Cream Rinse is effective in killing the mite. Nix is a brand name for permethrin topical. Other brand names it goes by are Lice Bedding Spray and Elimite (Ref. 3).
Instructions
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Take Nix topically (externally), not orally. Use the dosage prescribed on the label. Do not use more than the label directs, as the medicine is strong.
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Apply the cream one time. Apply it after bathing, since you don't want to wash it off shortly after application. Dry the skin before application. Apply a thin layer to your whole body below the neckline for prevention of spreading, but heavily emphasizing the red spots where the mites have burrowed.
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Treat your environment at the same time you are applying Nix. Otherwise, re-infestation is likely (see Hints below for specifics).
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Discuss use with a doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Discuss use with a doctor before applying it to an infant younger than two months in order to determine a safe dosage.
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Tips & Warnings
Treat the environment at the same time that you apply Nix, to avoid re-infestation. Wash all clothes and bedsheets on the hottest washer and dryer settings. If you can't wash it, place it in an airtight plastic bag for one to two weeks to kill the mites by starvation (Ref. 2).
Avoid sharing combs, bedding, and clothes until the scabies is gone.
Avoid skin contact with others until the scabies is gone.
Five percent Nix cream is the concentration used for scabies. One percent is used for head lice.
Itching may take up to a week or two to subside after the mites have been killed, as the burrowed tunnels heal. See a doctor if the itching persists longer.
Do not apply Nix to open wounds.
