How can lice in a child be cured quickly? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice medication such as 1 % permethrin or dimethicone lotion, leave it on the scalp for the recommended time, then use a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove live insects and eggs; repeat the treatment after 7–9 days to catch any newly hatched nits. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can lice in a child be cured quickly? - in detail
Detecting an infestation early reduces the time needed for eradication. Examine the scalp with a fine-toothed lice comb, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and the crown. Live insects appear as grayish specks; nits cling tightly to hair shafts, within 1 cm of the scalp.
Choose a treatment based on efficacy, safety, and speed:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based lotions). Apply to dry hair, leave for the manufacturer‑specified duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse. Repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits.
- Prescription options (malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion). Use when resistance to OTC products is suspected; follow the same repeat‑treatment interval.
- Manual removal with a fine‑toothed comb. Wet the hair with a conditioner, section it, and pull the comb from scalp to tip in short strokes. Perform the process every 2–3 hours for 48 hours, then repeat after 7 days.
- Dimethicone‑based products (silicone oil). Coat the hair, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse. The oil suffocates lice and loosens nits, allowing easier combing.
Supportive measures enhance rapid clearance:
- Launder all bedding, clothing, and towels worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray nits.
- Prevent re‑infestation by instructing the child to avoid head‑to‑head contact, sharing of hair accessories, and hats.
Monitor progress by re‑examining the scalp 24 hours after treatment and again after the second application. Absence of live lice confirms success; any remaining nits should be removed manually. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.