How can a 12-year-old child get rid of lice at home on long hair? - briefly
Apply an OTC lice remedy such as 1 % permethrin shampoo to the scalp, leave it on for the instructed period, then rinse thoroughly. Afterward, comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeat the treatment in 7–10 days, and wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water.
How can a 12-year-old child get rid of lice at home on long hair? - in detail
Treat the infestation as a step‑by‑step process. Begin with a thorough inspection: part the hair into small sections, use a fine‑toothed comb on a white surface to spot live insects and nits attached to the shaft within a quarter‑inch of the scalp.
Select an approved pediculicide or a non‑chemical alternative. Over‑the‑counter shampoos containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied according to the label, typically leaving the product on the scalp for ten minutes before rinsing. For families preferring a chemical‑free method, a mixture of 20 % vinegar and water, or a 2 % dimethicone lotion, can suffocate the parasites. Apply the chosen product to dry hair, ensuring complete coverage from roots to tips, then follow the recommended waiting period.
After rinsing, immediately use a metal nit comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm. Comb each section from the scalp outward, wiping the comb on a white towel after each pass. Repeat the combing process for the entire head, then wash the comb in hot, soapy water.
Perform a second treatment seven days later. This timing targets any eggs that hatched after the first application, preventing re‑infestation. Repeat the inspection and combing routine after the second session.
Clean the environment to eliminate stray nits. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Educate the child on preventive habits: avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or hair accessories; keep long hair tied back during sleep or play; and perform weekly checks during the outbreak period.
If lice persist after two full treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options or alternative therapies.