Soolantra Cream

Soolantra Cream can be used for all types and severities of rosacea and appears to be particularly effective in type 2 rosacea with lots of spots on a background of persistent redness (papulopustular rosacea). The main (active) ingredient is Ivermectin which helps kill the demodex mite which is thought to be responsible for the symptoms of rosacea. Ivermectin is also anti-inflammatory which makes it effective at reducing redness and inflammatory spots. It is applied once daily at night and with consistent daily use then benefits can be seen within days to weeks, although it is recommended to use for a minimum of 3 months for maximum benefit. Almost 40% of people will be clear or almost clear of rosacea symptoms after 3 months of use. Soolantra has been proven to be slightly more effective than Rozex gel (metronidazole) and has fewer side effects. It can be used alone or combined with other rosacea treatments (see our Rosacea guide for more information)- for example, combining Soolantra with oral Efracea capsules is significantly more effective at reducing inflammation spots then if using Soolantra alone.

Soolantra contains Ivermectin which is classed as an anti-protozoal drug from the avermectin class. It kills mites such as the Demodex mite thought to play a role in causing the inflammatory symptoms of rosacea. It also has direct anti-inflammatory properties through the reduction of chemicals released in the skin that are responsible for inflammation such as cytokines- therefore it is effective at reducing the cardinal signs of inflammation e.g. redness, warmth and swelling.

• Gently cleanse your skin with a rosacea-friendly cleanser or lukewarm water and pat dry
• Apply a Pea-sized amount of the cream at night to each of the 5 areas on the face (forehead, chin, nose and both cheeks) then spread the cream as thin layer across the entire face
• Use for a minimum of 3 months for maximum results
• Avoid the eyelids, lips, inside nose, mouth and the eyes- if you do get it in these areas rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if concerned.
• Do not apply cosmetics or any creams before applying and wash hands after use.
• If there is no improvement after 3 months of use, then stop using.
• If the rosacea goes away after finishing the course, but comes back now and again, the course can usually be repeated. If the rosacea keeps coming back frequently when the medication has been stopped, then consider only taking the medication 2-3 days per week to keep it at bay.

• This medication contains Propylene Glycol, Parahydroxybenzoates, Cetyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol which may cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. 

• Do not use this medication if you are allergic or suspect allergy to any of the ingredients. 

• Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

• For external use only- do not swallow and keep away from eyes. 

• Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking other medications that may interact with Ivermectin such as Warfarin, Acenocoumarol or Levamisole.

Do not use this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as it may be toxic and cause harm.

Active Ingredients: Ivermectin 10mg/g

Other Ingredients: Glycerol, Isopropyl palmitate, Carbomer, Dimeticone, Disodium edetate, Citric acid monohydrate, Cetyl alcohol, Stearyl alcohol, Macrogol cetostearyl ether, Sorbitan stearate, Methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), Phenoxyethanol, Propylene glycol, Oleyl alcohol, Sodium hydroxide and Purified water,Shelf Life: 2 years. After first opening use within 6 months.

All medications and products can potentially cause side effects- If they are severe, or are mild and do not improve, then you should speak to your pharmacist or doctor immediately. This list may not be exhaustive so please consult the patient information leaflet for the full list.


Common Side effects (affecting 1%- 10% of people): Skin burning sensation
Uncommon Side effects (affecting 0.1%-1% of people): Skin irritation, pruritus, dry skin.

There are many other Rosacea treatments available which are listed in our Rosacea guide. If you need help choosing, then start a quick questionnaire-based consultation or book in for a friendly telephone or video consultation with one of our dermatology pharmacists.