How can I remove lice from a child in one go? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved lice treatment (such as a permethrin or dimethicone shampoo) exactly as directed, then immediately comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract all live lice and nits; repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How can I remove lice from a child in one go? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice from a child in a single session requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or physical treatment, thorough combing, and environmental control.
Begin with a safe, age‑appropriate pediculicide. Choose a product that contains 1% permethrin or 0.5% malathion, following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely. Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips. Leave the product on for the recommended period (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
While the hair remains damp, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing) to remove live insects and eggs. Work section by section, starting at the nape and moving forward. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to confirm removal; discard any captured lice. Repeat combing at least three times for each section to increase certainty of eradication.
Once combing is complete, wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and any washable items in hot water (≥ 55 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, depriving lice of a host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray hairs that may harbor nits.
Conduct a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after the initial treatment. Repeat the combing process without re‑applying chemicals, as any surviving eggs will have hatched. If live lice are still present, administer a second dose of the pediculicide in accordance with label warnings, typically not sooner than 7 days after the first application.
Maintain vigilance by checking the child’s hair twice weekly for the next month. Promptly remove any newly detected nits to prevent reinfestation. This comprehensive, single‑session protocol, coupled with diligent post‑treatment monitoring, maximizes the likelihood of complete lice eradication.