How can lice on the head of a child with long hair be removed at home? - briefly
Treat the scalp with a 1 % permethrin or dimethicone product according to the label, rinse, and while the hair remains damp comb it thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Repeat the combing every 48–72 hours for two weeks and wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How can lice on the head of a child with long hair be removed at home? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations from a child with lengthy hair requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical extraction, safe topical agents, and thorough environmental decontamination.
Begin by gathering the necessary tools: a fine‑toothed nit comb (preferably metal), a wide‑toothed detangling brush, a pair of disposable gloves, a bowl of warm water mixed with a small amount of mild shampoo, and a plastic cap or towel to cover the shoulders. Apply a licensed pediculicide lotion or mousse according to the product label; allow the recommended contact time, usually ten minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For families preferring non‑chemical options, a mixture of 1 % dimethicone or a commercial silicone‑based spray can suffocate the insects without harming the scalp.
After treatment, follow these steps to eliminate the insects mechanically:
- Divide the hair into manageable sections using hair clips.
- Starting at the scalp, run the nit comb through each section from root to tip, applying gentle tension to keep the hair straight.
- After each pass, rinse the comb in the warm soapy water to remove captured lice and nits.
- Repeat the combing process at least twice, with a 7‑day interval, to catch any newly hatched nits that survived the first treatment.
- Inspect the scalp under bright light; repeat combing on any remaining spots.
Cleaning the surrounding environment is essential. Wash all bedding, pillowcases, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Maintain vigilance for the next three weeks. Examine the child’s hair every two to three days, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and the crown. If live lice reappear, repeat the chemical or silicone treatment and combing regimen. Persistent infestation after two full cycles warrants a consultation with a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.