How is the head treated for lice? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved lice treatment—shampoo, lotion, or spray—exactly as directed, including the specified application time. Then comb out any remaining nits with a fine‑tooth nit comb and repeat the procedure after 7–10 days.
How is the head treated for lice? - in detail
Treating an infestation of head lice requires a systematic approach that combines chemical agents, mechanical removal, and environmental measures.
The first step is verification of live lice through visual inspection. Once confirmed, remove any hair accessories and separate the affected individual’s bedding and clothing from others.
Chemical options
- Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, applied similarly.
- Malathion 0.5 % for cases resistant to permethrin; leave on hair for 8–12 hours before washing.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, a single 10‑minute application.
- Spinosad 0.9 % suspension, 10‑minute contact time.
Follow product instructions precisely; excess application does not improve efficacy and may increase irritation risk.
Mechanical removal
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair.
- Perform combing in sections from scalp to ends, repeating until no live nits are seen.
- Repeat combing every 2–3 days for a week.
Environmental control
- Wash all washable items in hot water (≥ 55 °C) and tumble dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly.
Follow‑up
- Re‑treat hair 7–10 days after the initial application to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Inspect hair 24 hours after each treatment; retreat only if live lice are observed.
Safety considerations
- Permethrin and pyrethrin are contraindicated for children under 2 months.
- Malathion should not be used on infants or pregnant individuals.
- Observe for skin irritation, itching, or respiratory symptoms; discontinue use and seek medical advice if adverse reactions occur.
Resistance management
- When resistance to conventional pediculicides is suspected, switch to dimethicone‑based products, which act by coating and immobilizing lice without neurotoxic effects.
- Essential‑oil formulations (e.g., tea‑tree oil) may provide adjunctive benefit but lack robust clinical evidence; use only as supplemental measures.
A disciplined regimen that integrates these elements typically eradicates the infestation within two weeks and minimizes recurrence.