How can lice and fleas be removed from the head? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice treatment (e.g., permethrin 1% shampoo) and thoroughly comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb, repeating after 7‑10 days; for flea infestations, wash the scalp with a flea‑specific shampoo and repeat the combing process, then clean bedding and personal items with hot water and a suitable insecticide.
How can lice and fleas be removed from the head? - in detail
Infestations of head lice and fleas require a systematic approach that combines direct treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and environmental decontamination.
The first step is accurate diagnosis. Examine the scalp and hair under bright light, using a fine-to‑tooth comb to separate strands. Lice appear as small, oval, grayish insects; their eggs (nits) are firmly attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Flea larvae or adult fleas may be seen moving quickly on the scalp or neck. Confirm presence before proceeding.
Direct treatment options
- Chemical pediculicides – Apply a lotion or shampoo containing 1% permethrin, 0.5% malathion, or dimethicone. Follow label instructions precisely: leave the product on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Flea‑specific shampoos – Use a preparation with 0.5% pyrethrin or a neem‑based formulation. Apply to wet hair, massage into the scalp, and leave for 5–10 minutes before rinsing. Repeat in 48 hours.
- Prescription options – For resistant cases, oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) or spinosad (0.9% topical) may be prescribed by a clinician. Monitor for side effects and ensure dosing accuracy.
Mechanical removal
- Comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb at 2‑minute intervals, starting at the crown and working outward. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white cloth to detect any remaining insects.
- For flea removal, use a fine metal comb or a damp cloth to wipe the scalp while gently pulling hair strands apart.
Personal item sanitation
- Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes, then dry on high heat.
- Place worn clothing, bedding, and towels in a sealed plastic bag for 72 hours, or launder at 60 °C with detergent, followed by a hot‑dry cycle.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats thoroughly; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
Environmental control
- Treat household surfaces with a spray containing 0.5% pyrethrin or an EPA‑registered insecticide, focusing on areas where the head rests (pillows, headrests).
- Keep pets treated with veterinarian‑approved flea preventatives to prevent cross‑infestation.
Follow‑up monitoring
- Re‑examine the scalp 7 days after the initial treatment; repeat combing and, if necessary, a second chemical application.
- Conduct weekly checks for three weeks to ensure complete eradication.
Combining chemical agents, meticulous combing, and rigorous cleaning of personal and household items provides the most reliable eradication of head lice and fleas.