Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug that’s FDA-approved for use in humans and animals. In recent years, it has been incorrectly alleged that ivermectin could be used to treat Covid-19.
Ivermectin is not a safe or effective treatment for Covid-19—but it can help improve symptoms of rosacea. Here’s what you need to know about using ivermectin to address facial redness.
Does Ivermectin Help with Rosacea?
Ivermectin 1% topical cream, which is sold under the brand name Soolantra, has been FDA-approved to treat rosacea since 2014. Research shows that after three months of treatment, topical ivermectin cream can clear or almost clear rosacea lesions in 40% to 80% of people with moderate to severe rosacea. Using topical ivermectin can also increase quality of life in people with rosacea-prone skin.
Scientists don’t know precisely why ivermectin helps improve rosacea symptoms, but they believe it’s because ivermectin works as a vermicidal agent to kill Demodex mites, which live on the skin and occur in higher numbers in people with rosacea. Topical ivermectin can also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Research shows both topical ivermectin and oral ivermectin are effective at reducing rosacea symptoms. Compared to metronidazole cream, an antibiotic often used to treat rosacea, ivermectin cream provided greater relief.
Is Ivermectin Safe to Use?
Research shows ivermectin cream is safe to use, with no serious adverse side effects. One study found that 707 patients used ivermectin cream for up to one year and experienced no safety concerns. The rate of side effects is similar to other common topical rosacea treatments, including metronidazole gel and azelaic acid. No systemic side effects occurred.
Where to Buy Ivermectin for Rosacea
If you’re considering using ivermectin to treat your rosacea, consult with your primary healthcare provider or a board-certified dermatologist. Both will be able to help you assess whether ivermectin is the best treatment option for your skin and provide a prescription if appropriate. The cost of ivermectin cream will vary depending on your health insurance coverage, but researchers note that a 30-g tube of ivermectin (a one-month supply) costs around $320.
Do not use topical ivermectin intended for use on animals. It is not formulated for human skin.
Reducing the Appearance of Facial Redness with Gladskin's Redness Relief Cream
It’s possible to soothe facial redness without a prescription. Gladskin Redness Relief Cream reduces the appearance of facial redness and moisturizes the skin with a lightweight formula. It contains our patented protein Micreobalance®, which restores bacterial balance to the skin microbiome. The result: calmer-looking skin.
