How can you get rid of lice and nits in children? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide (such as permethrin 1% lotion) as directed, then comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to extract live insects and eggs. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water, vacuum surfaces, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits.
How can you get rid of lice and nits in children? - in detail
Eliminate head lice and their eggs from a child by following a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, meticulous manual removal, and environmental sanitation.
Begin with accurate identification. Examine the scalp under bright light, part hair in sections, and look for live insects about the size of a sesame seed and oval, white or brown eggs attached close to the scalp. Confirm infestation before proceeding.
Choose an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective for most cases. Apply according to label instructions, ensuring thorough coverage of the entire scalp and hair length. For resistant infestations, consult a physician for prescription‑strength options such as 0.5 % malathion or oral ivermectin.
After the chemical step, remove residual nits manually. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat combing at least twice, with a 7‑day interval, to capture newly hatched lice before they lay additional eggs.
Clean personal items and the environment. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray insects.
Monitor progress. Conduct a thorough scalp inspection every 2–3 days for two weeks. If live lice are still present after the second treatment, repeat the pediculicide application following the same schedule. Persistent cases may require a different active ingredient or professional medical advice.
Prevent re‑infestation by educating the child about avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories, and performing regular scalp checks, especially after group activities. Consistent application of these steps will eradicate the infestation and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.