Benzyl Benzoate Cream: The Ultimate Aussie Guide to Beating Lice & Scabies

Let’s be honest for a second—nobody ever wants to talk about scabies or head lice. It’s embarrassing, it’s frustrating, and honestly, it makes your skin crawl just thinking about it. But here’s the thing: in Australia, it happens to the best of us. Whether the kids brought some "unwanted friends" home from school or a weekend away at a hostel left you with some hitchhikers, you’re now stuck with the itch.

You’ve probably searched through a dozen forums already, looking for a way out. At NCC, we see this every day. You don't want a "natural remedy" that smells like tea tree oil but does nothing. You want the big guns. You want Benzyl Benzoate.

Key Takeaways:

• The Heavy Hitter: If you have scabies or lice, benzyl benzoate goes straight for these pests’ nervous systems.

• The 24-Hour Rule: This is no instant cure. You have to leave the cream on for an entire 24 hours for it to do anything.

• Neck Down: For scabies, you have to cover every square inch of skin below the jawline-don’t forget between your toes!

• Dilute for the Tackers: Children’s skin is so delicate. Never use the cream straight up: Dilute it with water (1:1 for older kids, 1:3 for infants).

• House Purge: You must launder all bedding and clothes in hot water 60°C+ to halt the reinfection cycle.

• The After-Itch: You may continue to itch for 2-4 weeks after the bugs are dead. This is normal — your skin is simply healing itself.

What’s the story with Benzyl Benzoate?

If scabies and lice were an invading army, Benzyl Benzoate would be the elite squad sent in to clear them out. It’s been a staple in Australian pharmacies for decades, and for one simple reason—it’s incredibly effective.

How it actually works: The medicine is absorbed directly by the lice or mites. Once it gets inside them, it attacks their nervous system, paralyzing the pests and destroying them. It sounds a bit grim, but when you haven't slept because of the scratching, "grim" is exactly what you need.

The best part for busy Aussie families? You can grab our Benzyl Benzoate Cream Product.

Scabies: It’s not about being "dirty," mate.

First of all, let’s put to rest the myth that only “dirty” people get scabies. Total rubbish. These minuscule mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) don’t care how often you bathe, how clean your home is: They’re not fair. They’re merely looking for a cozy corner to burrow and lay eggs.

The NCC Battle Plan for Scabies: Come on, if you’re not going to do this properly, then it’s just a waste of your time. It’s an all-or-nothing job.

• The Dry Run: Do not apply this right after taking a hot bath. Your skin will be too porous; the medicine might sting. Wait until you’re cool and bone-dry, then get dressed.

• The Full Body Suit: That means you have to apply the cream all over your skin from the neck down. Between the toes, beneath the fingernails, and in every crease of skin. If you leave a spot the size of a 10-cent piece, she said, mites can find it.

• The 24-Hour Marathon: Keep it on for a full day. You will have to reapply the cream to your hands again right after you wash them during the day.

• The Big Rinse: Give it a good rinse with warm water and soap after 24 hours. Take a clean towel and change into fresh clothes.

Head Lice: Your Back-to-School “Gift” that Keeps on Giving

Any one of us parents has received that terrifying message from the school principal. "Lice detected in Year 3." Your heart sinks, but don’t panic: There’s a quick way to find whatever you were about to say. Benzyl Benzoate works on lice the same way it does on mites.

• The Prep: Ensure the hair is dry and free of any oily conditioners or styling products.

• The Soak: Apply enough medicine to thoroughly wet the hair and scalp. Don't be stingy—you want every louse covered.

• The Wait: Let it sit for 24 hours. Yes, it’s a long time for a little kid to sit still, but lice are totally obliterated.

• The Comb-Out: After lathering, keep using the tiny toothed nit comb to get rid of the dead lice and their eggs (nits). The medicine kills the bugs, but those eggs are glued on tight and have to be taken out by hand.

Dosing: Why Age and Strength Matter

Adult skin is tough, but kids and infants have much thinner, more sensitive skin. Because Benzyl Benzoate is so powerful, you must dilute it for the younger ones to avoid severe irritation.

• Adults: Usually, one application is enough. For severe cases, repeat after 24 hours.

• Older Children: Mix the cream with an equal part of water (1:1 ratio).

• Infants: Mix one part cream with three parts water (1:3 ratio).

Pro-tip: Mix the dilution in a small bowl right before you use it so it stays fresh and effective.

Safety First: The "Ouch" Factor

While Benzyl Benzoate is a hero against bugs, it can be a bit sharp on the skin.

• The Tingle: It’s very common to feel a slight burning or itching for about 15 minutes after you put it on. It usually settles down as your body adjusts.

• The Eyes and Nose: Keep it far away! If you get it in your eyes, flush them with cool water immediately.

• Medical History: If you have severe skin inflammation, open wounds, or eczema, talk to our pharmacists before using it. Putting this on raw skin will sting like crazy and could make things worse.

The "House Purge": Don't Let Them Come Back!

If you treat your body but not your environment, you’ll be itchy again by next Tuesday. Parasites love a family gathering.

1. Treat the Mob: Everyone in the household should be treated at the same time, even if they aren't itchy yet.

2. The Hot Wash: Every worn shirt, towel, and bedsheet goes into a 60°C hot wash. The heat kills any mites or eggs hiding in the fabric.

3. Vacuuming: Give the mattresses, rugs, and car seats a proper once-over with the vacuum.

4. The Toy Jail: If a stuffed toy can't be washed, seal it in a plastic bag for 2 weeks. The mites will starve without a human host.

Conclusion: Reclaim Your Comfort

Dealing with lice or scabies is a massive hassle, but it isn't forever. With a bit of patience, a lot of hot laundry, and the professional-grade power of NCC Benzyl Benzoate Cream, you’ll be back to your normal, non-itchy self in no time.

Don't let the itch win. Take control, treat the house, and get back to enjoying the Aussie lifestyle.

FAQs: 

1. Why am I still itchy after the treatment?

Great question. Even after the mites are dead, your skin is still reacting to their "leftovers" under your skin. The itch can hang around for 2-4 weeks. It’s annoying, but it doesn't mean the treatment failed.

2. Can I use it if I'm pregnant?

We suggest being cautious. Scopolamine and Benzyl Benzoate haven't been studied enough in pregnant women to be 100% sure. Always talk with your GP first.

3. Does the cream expire?

Too right it does. Always check the date on your NCC Benzyl Benzoate bottle. Outdated medicine loses its punch and won't kill the bugs effectively.

4. Can I put it on my face?

Generally, stay below the jawline. The skin on your face is very sensitive and close to your eyes. Only use it on your face if your doctor specifically tells you to.

5. How many bottles do I need?

For one adult scabies treatment, you'll want at least 200ml to ensure you can cover your whole body twice (once for the first go, and once for a repeat if needed).

Disclaimer: 

The information shared in this article is general in nature and is intended for educational purposes only. It does not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual needs and circumstances. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an existing medical condition, or are taking prescription medication, seek guidance before making changes to your health routine or using supplements. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. For our full Health Disclaimer & Liability Notice, visit this page.