How can I eliminate lice and fleas from a person's head? - briefly
Treat the scalp with a 1 % permethrin lotion, leave it on for the recommended duration, and repeat after 7–10 days; then apply an approved anti‑flea topical (e.g., fipronil) or insecticidal shampoo and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove any remaining parasites.
How can I eliminate lice and fleas from a person's head? - in detail
Lice and flea infestations on a human scalp require a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the presence of both parasites. Adult head‑lice are visible as brownish insects about 2–4 mm long, while their nits cling to hair shafts within 1 mm of the scalp. Flea bites appear as small red papules, often clustered around the neck and hairline; fleas themselves may be seen moving among the hair.
Chemical control
- Apply a pediculicide containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion to dry hair, following the product’s instructions for exposure time.
- For flea infestation, use a topical insecticide such as 0.5 % pyrethrin or 0.05 % ivermectin lotion, applied to the scalp and massaged gently.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid hot water that can damage skin.
Mechanical removal
- After chemical treatment, comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Perform this process every 2–3 hours for 48 hours, then repeat daily for a week.
- Use a fine flea comb (similar to a pet‑comb) to sweep through the hair, discarding captured insects onto a damp cloth.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C, then dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, scarves) in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks to starve any remaining parasites.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the scalp 7 days after the initial treatment; repeat the chemical application if live lice or fleas are still observed.
- Continue nit combing for an additional 10 days to catch any newly hatched lice before they mature.
Adhering strictly to this protocol eliminates both infestations and reduces the risk of recurrence.