How and with what to remove lice from a child? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo or lotion approved for children, then comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to remove live lice and nits; repeat the combing after 24 hours. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How and with what to remove lice from a child? - in detail
Effective lice eradication in a child requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, topical treatment, and environmental control.
First, select a proven pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion or shampoo, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Dimethicone‑based products, which suffocate insects without neurotoxic action; apply according to label instructions.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, reserved for resistant cases; follow safety guidelines strictly.
If chemical agents are contraindicated (e.g., allergy, young age), use a physical method:
- Fine‑toothed nit comb (minimum 0.15 mm spacing). Comb wet, conditioned hair from scalp to ends, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Second, execute the treatment protocol:
- Wash the child’s hair with regular shampoo; rinse thoroughly.
- Apply the chosen product, ensuring full coverage of the scalp and hair shafts.
- Cover hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap if required by the product; maintain the recommended exposure time.
- Rinse with warm water; avoid hot water that may irritate the scalp.
- Dry hair gently; do not use high‑heat blow dryer on the scalp.
Third, perform post‑treatment combing:
- After the product dries, use the nit comb on damp hair. Remove each visible nymph or adult and discard safely.
- Conduct a second combing session 24 hours later to capture any newly hatched lice.
Fourth, manage the environment:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister promptly.
Fifth, monitor for recurrence:
- Inspect the child’s hair every 2–3 days for the next three weeks.
- Repeat the entire treatment cycle once if live lice are observed after the initial application.
Safety considerations:
- Follow age restrictions on each product; many pediculicides are not approved for children under two years.
- Avoid applying chemicals to broken or inflamed skin.
- Use gloves when handling medications to prevent dermal exposure.
- Consult a pediatrician if the child experiences severe itching, rash, or signs of an allergic reaction.
By adhering to this comprehensive regimen—selecting an appropriate agent, executing precise application, employing meticulous combing, and eliminating potential reservoirs—lice infestations can be eliminated efficiently and safely.