Ivermectin is a medication that falls into the class of drugs called antiparasitic agents.
It was originally used since 1987 in its oral tablet form in order to help treat worm infections in both humans and animals, but in its topical forms (applied to the skin on the face or scalp), it has been found to treat head lice and also rosacea.
While the exact mechanism of how Ivermectin can help with facial inflammation is unknown, it is thought that mites on the face may have something to do with it.
Small, naturally-occurring mites live on the skin of the face, called Demodex mites. These mites normally do not cause any issues, but for those with rosacea, it has been found that they tend to have much higher numbers of these mites than non-rosacea-sufferers.
Large amounts of these skin mites are thought to play a role in the inflammatory response of redness, flushing, and irritation that occurs in those with rosacea.
Ivermectin is thought to help clear away these mites, potentially helping to reduce the inflammatory response from their overpopulation.
Blemishes form more readily on irritated skin, like what is commonly seen with untreated rosacea. Ivermectin has been found to help block the excessive production of many pro-inflammatory mediators in the skin.
Possibly, this reduction in overall skin irritation and inflammation can help reduce or reverse the formation of the small papules and pustules common in rosacea patients.
Additionally, the excessive Demodex mites found on the skin of those with rosacea may play a role in populating pores and creating an environment that promotes pimples development.
Ivermectin can help clear those excess skin mites, preventing mite-induced inflammatory blemishes, and allowing the skin to normalize and heal.
Topical Ivermectin creams, lotions, or gels used for rosacea are normally used once daily, however, if your doctor has prescribed something different, follow the instructions on your prescription label.
Before you apply your topical Ivermectin, wash your hands and face, and allow your face to thoroughly dry.
Apply a pea-sized amount of the topical Ivermectin to the affected areas of the face, using one pea-sized amount for each of the affected areas: forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. Spread onto your skin gently to cover the entire area in a thin layer of the Ivermectin.
Avoid getting Ivermectin cream into your eyes or mouth. If you do get some in your eye, rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid eye irritation.
Ivermectin is a prescription-only medication in all of its formulations.
You can speak to your doctor about your rosacea concerns either in-person or consult with a U.S. licensed doctor online for free at Strut Health to see if a rosacea formulation with Ivermectin is a good choice for your skin.
Ivermectin can be found in its generic form, under the brand name Soolantra, or even formulated into a combination rosacea formulation by a compounding pharmacy, like with our Strut Rosacea Formulas.
We offer a variety of rosacea soothing ingredients like Metronidazole, Azelaic Acid, Ivermectin, and Oxymetazoline. Our doctors will review your information, symptoms, and images of your skin, and build a rosacea combination formula specifically for your skin.
If you are a good candidate for an Ivermectin formula for your rosacea, your prescription rosacea formula can be shipped to your front door with our free and discreet shipping.