Can Using Dettol Actually Kill Scabies Mites?

What Is Scabies Infestation?

Scabies mites are tiny eight-legged parasites that dig under the skin and lay eggs. When they burrow in, they cause sensitization that leads to extreme itching, especially at night.

Common areas mites affect include:

Between the fingers

Wrists

Elbows

Armpits

Nipples

Waist

Genitals

Scabies spreads quickly where there is skin-to-skin contact. The mites can live for 2-3 days without a human host. Both treatment of those infected and disinfection of living areas is needed.

Active Ingredients in Dettol

Dettol contains several active ingredients with disinfecting properties, including:

Chloroxylenol

Chloroxylenol is the main antiseptic ingredient in Dettol. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity against a broad range of microbes.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol, also called rubbing alcohol, has potent antimicrobial effects against viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

Pine Oil

Pine oil derived from pine trees also has disinfectant properties and is commonly used as a cleaner and deodorizer.

Can Dettol Kill Scabies Mites?

Dettol products have not been specifically tested or approved as scabies treatments. However, some sources indicate Dettol can kill scabies due to the active chemicals it contains.

Kills Bacteria and Viruses

The ingredients in Dettol have broad antimicrobial effects and are effective at killing bacteria like MRSA as well as viruses causing diseases like hepatitis and flu.

Kills Parasites

Limited evidence suggests Dettol can also kill parasites. One study found it effective against parasitic scab mites in rabbits. Another found it killed dust mites at certain concentrations.

Disrupts Nervous System

Experts speculate the alcohol and chloroxylenol in Dettol likely disrupts the nervous system of scabies mites, potentially killing them or disabling them.

Using Dettol for Scabies Treatment

Dettol products like antiseptic liquid, soap, and spray are sometimes used as home remedies to treat scabies. However, there are some important caveats to consider.

Off-Label Treatment

Using Dettol for scabies is an off-label treatment. Dettol is not FDA approved or specifically formulated to kill scabies mites.

May Not Penetrate Skin

One problem is that Dettol may not penetrate deeply enough under the skin to reach all the buried scabies mites and eggs.

Resistance Possible

There is also concern that scabies mites could become resistant to choroxylenol and other chemicals in Dettol if used improperly.

Is Dettol Effective for Scabies?

Based on the available evidence, Dettol likely only kills surface mites but does not eliminate all mites burrowed under the skin. It also does not have lasting residual activity.

This means Dettol should not be used alone to treat active scabies infestations. Other more effective treatments should be used instead.

When Can Dettol Be Used for Scabies?

While not fully curative, Dettol products can provide some benefits in managing scabies infestations:

Killing Surface Mites

Using Dettol can help destroy mites living on the skin's surface and in the environment but will not kill all mites.

Disinfecting Surfaces

Dettol is effective for disinfecting surfaces like floors and furniture to kill scabies mites living on objects touched by infected people.

Provide Temporary Relief

The cooling, drying effect of Dettol can temporarily relieve itching symptoms, but does not treat the cause.

Proven Scabies Treatments

While Dettol is not considered an adequate lone treatment, proven medical treatments for scabies infestations include:

Permethrin Cream

Permethrin 5% cream is applied over the entire body and kills scabies mites and eggs. It is left on for 8-14 hours before washing off.

Ivermectin Pills

Oral ivermectin tablets can eliminate mites by paralyzing and killing them. Multiple doses are taken over time.

Sulfur Ointment

Sulfur ointments are applied topically and penetrate deeply into skin to kill scabies mites. Treatment is needed daily for 7 days.

Using Dettol to Prevent Scabies

Dettol can be more useful in preventing rather than treating scabies infestations when used properly:

Bathe Regularly With Dettol

Bathing with Dettol liquid soap daily can help kill any new surface mites before they burrow into skin.

Wash Clothes, Bedding with Dettol Laundry Cleanser

Using a Dettol laundry cleanser ensures clothing and bedding do not harbor scabies mites that can reinfect you.

Disinfect Surfaces with Dettol Spray

Use Dettol antiseptic spray to thoroughly clean and disinfect any hard surfaces that may contain active scabies mites.

Precautions When Using Dettol for Scabies

Be cautious using Dettol too aggressively to treat scabies, as this can cause side effects:

Skin Irritation

Frequent Dettol use can dry out and irritate skin, worsen itching, and increase risk of infection.

Allergic Reactions

Some people may be allergic or sensitive to ingredients like chloroxylenol in Dettol and get contact dermatitis.

Ingestion Hazards

Accidentally drinking or ingesting Dettol can cause serious chemical burns, nausea, vomiting, and even death.

Only use sparingly for disinfection. Rinse skin after application and avoid excessive use.

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist promptly if you suspect you have scabies for proper diagnosis and medical treatment. Self-treatment with cleansers alone is inadequate and delays getting rid of the infestation.

Signs its time to seek medical care include:

Persistent itchy rash

Tiny burrows in skin

Scabies spread to multiple family members

No improvement with home treatment

A doctor can prescribe effective scabies medication, recommend disinfection methods, and monitor treatment progress.

The Takeaway

While Dettol products can help kill some scabies mites and disinfect surfaces, it does not completely cure scabies on its own or penetrate fully into the skin. Proven medical treatments are required to eliminate the infestation.

However, when combined with prescription medications, using Dettol regularly can be helpful to manage scabies outbreaks and prevent recurrent spread.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.