How can lice on a child's head be quickly cured? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin shampoo, follow the label’s contact time, rinse, then remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb; repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any remaining hatchlings.
How can lice on a child's head be quickly cured? - in detail
Head lice infestations require prompt action to prevent spread and discomfort. Begin by confirming the presence of live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair; a live louse seen during combing confirms infestation.
Choose an approved pediculicide that kills both adults and nymphs within minutes. Recommended options include:
- 1% permethrin lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- 0.5% malathion lotion, applied for 8–12 hours before washing.
- Dimethicone‑based silicone oil, left for 10 minutes, then removed with combing.
Follow the product label precisely: apply to the entire scalp and hair length, avoid contact with eyes, and use protective gloves if needed. After rinsing, dry the hair and immediately comb through with a fine-toothed lice comb to extract dead insects and remaining nits.
Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first application. During the interval, maintain daily combing sessions to catch any emerging nits.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the child’s scalp for at least three weeks after the second treatment. If live lice persist, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options, such as oral ivermectin or spinosad lotion.