How can lice and nits be removed from a child? - briefly
Use a fine-tooth comb with a medicated shampoo, then meticulously comb out lice and eggs, repeating the process every 7–10 days for two weeks. Clean bedding, clothing, and personal items with hot water or seal them in plastic bags for 48 hours.
How can lice and nits be removed from a child? - in detail
Effective removal of head lice and their eggs in a child requires a systematic approach that combines appropriate treatment, thorough combing, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the infestation by inspecting the scalp and hair. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on wet hair, dividing the hair into sections and pulling the comb through from scalp to tip. Examine the comb after each pass; live lice appear as brown or gray insects, while nits look like tiny, oval, white or yellowish shells attached close to the scalp.
Choose a treatment method based on availability, resistance patterns, and safety considerations. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (e.g., permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based products). Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription neurotoxic agents (e.g., malathion 0.5 %, ivermectin lotion). Follow the prescribing information precisely; these are reserved for cases where resistance to OTC formulas is suspected.
- Dimethicone‑based lotions that suffocate lice without chemicals. Apply to dry hair, cover with a shower cap for the indicated time, then wash out.
- Physical removal only (wet combing) for families preferring non‑chemical methods. Perform combing sessions every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
After treatment, execute the following combing protocol:
- Wash hair with a regular shampoo; do not use conditioner before combing.
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner to detangle and facilitate comb movement.
- Starting at the scalp, pull the lice comb through a 1‑inch section of hair, moving toward the tip.
- Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass; discard any captured lice or nits.
- Repeat for the entire head, then re‑wet the hair and repeat the process at least once more.
- Clean the comb with hot, soapy water or a disinfectant after each use.
Environmental control reduces re‑infestation risk:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum floors, furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward.
- Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones until the infestation clears.
Schedule a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after the initial treatment. Check for live lice and newly hatched nits; repeat the chosen treatment if any are found. Continue weekly combing for an additional two weeks to ensure complete eradication.