How can you treat lice in a child's hair? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin lotion according to the label, rinse, and then remove all nits with a fine‑tooth comb; repeat the application after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice. Wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent reinfestation.
How can you treat lice in a child's hair? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestations in children requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, thorough removal of nits, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on a dampened section of hair, examining each pass under good lighting.
Next, select a pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective for most cases. Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically after shampooing and leaving the solution on the scalp for 10 minutes before rinsing. For resistant infestations, a prescription‑only agent such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin may be required; these should be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
After medication, perform a systematic nit‑removal process:
- Divide hair into sections, securing each with a clip.
- Starting at the scalp, comb through each section with a fine‑toothed nit comb, moving outward.
- Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass to detect any attached eggs.
- Repeat the combing at least twice daily for seven days, then again after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk:
- Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray nits.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up inspection after the treatment course. If live lice are still observed, repeat the pediculicide application after 7 days or consult a medical provider for alternative therapy. Consistent adherence to the outlined protocol eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.