How can you remove lice from a child? - briefly
Apply a child‑safe lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or spray) as directed, then comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract nits, repeating the process after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched insects.
How can you remove lice from a child? - in detail
Removing head lice from a child requires a systematic approach that combines detection, treatment, and follow‑up.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp under bright light. Separate sections of hair with a fine‑tooth comb, pulling the hair taut. Live lice and viable nits appear as small, grayish or brownish bodies attached close to the scalp.
Next, select an appropriate treatment method. Options include:
- Chemical pediculicides – OTC products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, applied according to label instructions, left on for the recommended time, then rinsed.
- Prescription agents – 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol lotion for cases where resistance to OTC formulas is suspected.
- Mechanical removal – Wet‑comb technique using a fine‑tooth nit comb. Hair is saturated with conditioner, then combed from scalp to ends in 10‑second intervals, repeating every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Alternative options – Dimethicone‑based lotions or silicone oils that suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals.
After applying the chosen product, follow these steps:
- Apply to dry hair (unless product specifies wet application). Cover scalp completely, avoiding eyes and mouth.
- Leave for the specified duration (usually 10–15 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Comb through hair with a nit comb to extract dead lice and remaining nits.
Repeat the treatment after 7–9 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects that survived the first application.
Conduct a second combing session 24 hours after the repeat treatment to ensure complete clearance.
Finally, implement preventive measures:
- Wash bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Advise the child to avoid sharing combs, brushes, helmets, or headphones.
Consistent adherence to this protocol eradicates the infestation and reduces the risk of re‑colonization.