Scabies

Scabies Treatment in Neath – Free NHS Advice & Skin Care

Itchy, rashy skin that’s worse at night? Our scabies treatment service in Neath provides fast, professional care from trained pharmacists through the NHS Common Ailments Service. Get the right diagnosis, treatment, and advice — no need to wait for your GP.

Book an NHS Common Ailment appointment for scabies treatment today.
Book online or visit our pharmacy.

What Is Scabies?

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by microscopic mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) that burrow into the skin and lay eggs. This causes intense itching and a rash that often appears between the fingers, on wrists, elbows, waistline, or other warm skin areas.
Scabies spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact and is more common in shared living environments such as households, care homes, or schools.

Expert Advice & Effective Treatment

Our pharmacists in Neath can assess your symptoms and provide suitable treatment under the NHS Common Ailments Service. Depending on your situation, we may offer:

  • Topical scabicide lotions or creams to kill the mites (e.g. permethrin or malathion)
  • Advice on application technique — treating the whole body from the neck down, and repeating after 7 days
  • Guidance for close contacts: Everyone in the household or anyone with prolonged contact should be treated at the same time
  • Hygiene and laundry advice to prevent re-infestation
  • Referral to your GP if symptoms persist, skin becomes infected, or treatment is unsuitable

With professional pharmacist support, you’ll receive clear advice and reassurance to manage scabies effectively and safely.

Self-Care Measures

To support treatment and stop the spread:

  • Treat everyone in close contact: Even if they don’t have symptoms.
  • Wash bedding and clothing: Use a hot wash (at least 50°C) and dry thoroughly.
  • Vacuum furniture and carpets: Mites can survive briefly on fabrics.
  • Don’t apply cream to wet skin: Ensure skin is cool and dry before use.
  • Relieve itching: Itching may continue for a few weeks after successful treatment — your pharmacist can recommend soothing lotions or antihistamines if suitable.

When to Seek Further Help

We may refer you to your GP if:

  • There are signs of bacterial infection (pain, pus, redness, swelling)
  • Symptoms persist more than 4 weeks after completing treatment
  • Scabies occurs in a vulnerable person (elderly, young children, immunocompromised)
  • There are crusted or extensive skin changes suggesting Norwegian (crusted) scabies

Book an Appointment

Our pharmacist scabies treatment service in Neath is quick, confidential and convenient. Get trusted advice and the correct NHS treatment to clear scabies effectively.

Book Online or visit us in-store for same-day advice.

Providing NHS Services Wales

FAQs – Scabies & Skin Infestation

Can pharmacists treat scabies?

Yes — our pharmacists can supply scabies treatment and provide advice under the NHS Common Ailments Service if suitable.

How long does scabies last?

With correct treatment, scabies mites are killed quickly, but itching may persist for 2–4 weeks as the skin heals.

Is scabies contagious?

Yes — it spreads through close physical contact. It’s important to treat everyone in the same household or anyone with prolonged contact.

Can scabies cause infection?

Scratching may break the skin and cause secondary bacterial infection. Our pharmacist prescribers can assess and treat infections if required under NHS guidance.

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Common Ailments Service |
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