How can lice be removed from a child's head at home? - briefly
Apply a fine‑toothed lice comb to thoroughly wet, conditioned hair after treating the scalp with an approved pediculicide or a diluted vinegar solution, then repeat the combing every 24 hours for at least seven days. Clean bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent reinfestation.
How can lice be removed from a child's head at home? - in detail
Head lice infestations in children require prompt, thorough action to eradicate the insects and prevent recurrence. The process begins with gathering the necessary tools: a fine-toothed lice comb, a regular fine-tooth comb, a bowl of warm water, mild shampoo, and, if desired, an approved pediculicide. Prepare a clean, well‑lit area and lay a white towel or paper to catch fallen lice.
Start by washing the child’s hair with a gentle shampoo, rinsing completely, and towel‑drying until damp. Apply a lice‑killing product according to the label, or, for a chemical‑free approach, use a mixture of 1 % dimethicone or a few drops of tea‑tree oil diluted in a carrier oil. Allow the treatment to sit for the prescribed time, then rinse thoroughly.
While the hair remains wet, use the fine‑toothed comb to separate strands and run the comb from scalp to tip in slow, deliberate strokes. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue, dip it in the water bowl, and repeat. Perform this combing session at least twice a day for seven consecutive days; the second round eliminates newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial treatment.
Simultaneously, address the environment to remove hidden eggs and insects. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward.
Monitor the scalp daily for live insects or viable nits attached within 1 mm of the hair shaft. If live lice persist after two full treatment cycles, or if the child experiences severe itching, rash, or secondary infection, seek medical evaluation for prescription‑strength options.
Consistent combing, proper hygiene of personal items, and thorough cleaning of the living space constitute an effective home‑based protocol for eliminating head lice from a child.