How can you get rid of lice on a teenager's long hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide (e.g., permethrin 1% shampoo or lotion) according to the label, then comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb while it is still damp; repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits. Maintain regular washing of bedding, clothing, and personal items and avoid sharing hair accessories to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you get rid of lice on a teenager's long hair? - in detail
Treating a lice infestation on a teenager with long hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or mechanical eradication with thorough environmental control.
First, verify the presence of live lice and viable nits. Use a magnifying lens and a fine‑toothed comb on a damp strand; live insects move quickly, while nits appear as tiny oval shells attached within ¼ inch of the scalp.
Prepare the necessary items before treatment: a medicated shampoo or lotion approved for adolescents, a metal or plastic lice comb with 0.2 mm teeth, a wide‑tooth comb for detangling, a spray bottle with water, a conditioner to reduce tangles, disposable gloves, and clean towels. Set aside a timer to track application periods.
If opting for a topical pediculicide, follow these steps:
- Apply the product to dry hair, saturating the scalp and roots.
- Leave the medication on for the exact duration specified on the label (usually 10 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Immediately perform a wet‑combing session: spray hair with conditioner, divide it into 2‑inch sections, and run the lice comb from the scalp to the tips, wiping the comb after each pass.
- Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions, covering the typical 7‑10 day life cycle of the insect.
For households that prefer a non‑chemical route, the wet‑combing method alone can be effective when performed diligently:
- Soak the hair in lukewarm water for 5 minutes.
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner to eliminate friction.
- Section the hair, starting at the crown and moving outward.
- Comb each section with the lice comb, ensuring the teeth reach the scalp.
- Rinse the comb in a bowl of hot, soapy water after each pass.
- Continue the procedure for at least 30 minutes, then repeat every other day for two weeks.
After treatment, sanitize the environment to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Place items that cannot be laundered in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Long hair presents additional challenges. Use a wide‑tooth detangling comb before applying any product to avoid breakage. Section the hair with clips to keep each part manageable during combing. Avoid heavy styling products that can mask nits or hinder the pediculicide’s contact with the scalp.
If live lice persist after two full treatment cycles, or if allergic reactions, severe itching, or secondary skin infections develop, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as malathion, ivermectin, or oral agents.