Benzyl benzoate is a topical treatment used to address scabies, a common skin condition. This infestation is caused by tiny mites, specifically Sarcoptes scabiei, which burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash. Benzyl benzoate aims to eliminate these mites and alleviate the associated discomfort.
Understanding Benzyl Benzoate
Benzyl benzoate functions as an acaricide, a substance designed to kill mites. It works by affecting the nervous system of scabies mites, leading to their paralysis and death, effectively clearing the infestation.
The medication is typically available as a 10% or 25% lotion or emulsion. It is absorbed into the superficial layers of the skin, where it can directly target the mites. Benzyl benzoate treats scabies by eradicating the parasitic cause.
Preparing for Treatment
Before applying benzyl benzoate, prepare the individual and their environment. Begin by taking a warm bath or shower, then dry the skin completely. Trim fingernails to prevent mites from hiding underneath. Avoid hot baths immediately prior to application, as this can increase skin irritation.
Addressing the living environment is crucial to prevent re-infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used in the 72 hours preceding treatment in hot water (60°C/140°F or higher) and dry on a hot cycle. Items that cannot be washed, such as stuffed animals or furniture, should be sealed in plastic bags for three to seven days to ensure mites die off. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture. All household members and close contacts should receive treatment simultaneously, even if asymptomatic, to break the re-infestation cycle.
Applying Benzyl Benzoate
Applying benzyl benzoate requires comprehensive coverage. Shake the product well before use. Apply a sufficient amount to cover the entire body surface from the neck down, including all skin folds and between fingers and toes. Use a brush to apply the product thoroughly under the nails.
While the face and scalp are typically spared in adults, infants, young children, and the elderly may require treatment in these areas if lesions are present. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on treating sensitive areas. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes, as benzyl benzoate can cause irritation. If hands are washed during the treatment period, reapply the product to ensure continued coverage. The product is typically left on the skin for 24 hours; always follow the specific directions provided with your medication.
Post-Application Care and Important Considerations
After the recommended application period, rinse off the benzyl benzoate by showering with warm water and soap. Persistent itching for up to two to four weeks following treatment is common, even if mites are eliminated. This post-treatment itchiness does not indicate treatment failure and can be managed with antihistamines or a mild corticosteroid cream, if advised by a healthcare provider.
A second application of benzyl benzoate is typically recommended 7 to 10 days after the first treatment. This targets any mites that may have hatched from eggs that survived the initial treatment, ensuring complete eradication of the infestation. Continued environmental cleaning, including washing bedding and clothing, helps prevent re-infestation.
Common side effects include skin irritation, burning sensation, redness, and dryness at the application site. Severe reactions, such as allergic responses (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), are rare but require immediate medical attention. Do not apply benzyl benzoate to broken, inflamed, or secondarily infected skin due to increased absorption and potential irritation. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those treating infants and young children, should consult a doctor before use, as dilution or alternative treatments may be necessary. If symptoms persist or worsen after four weeks, severe irritation occurs, or treatment failure is suspected, seek medical advice.