How should a lice lotion be applied? - briefly
Apply the lotion to clean, dry hair, coating the scalp and each strand, leave it on for the time specified on the label (typically 10‑15 minutes), then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat the procedure after 7‑10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How should a lice lotion be applied? - in detail
Before treatment, inspect the scalp to confirm the presence of live nits and adult lice. Remove excess hair products, then wash the hair with a regular shampoo. Rinse thoroughly and towel‑dry until damp but not soaking.
Apply the medication according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
- Measure the recommended amount using the supplied applicator or a calibrated cup.
- Part the hair into sections of 1–2 inches, starting at the back of the head and working forward.
- Dispense the lotion directly onto the scalp and hair shafts in each section, ensuring coverage from the roots to the tips.
- Comb through the wet hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb, moving from the scalp outward to distribute the product evenly and to dislodge any attached nits.
- After the entire head is treated, cover the hair with a clean plastic cap or shower cap to maintain moisture. The cap should remain in place for the duration specified on the label (typically 10–15 minutes).
After the prescribed exposure time:
- Remove the cap and rinse the hair with warm water.
- Use the lice comb again on the wet hair to extract any remaining nits.
- Wash the comb in hot, soapy water after each pass.
Post‑treatment care:
- Allow the hair to air‑dry or use a low‑heat setting on a dryer.
- Do not apply conditioner, hair spray, or other styling products for at least 24 hours.
- Perform a second application according to the product’s schedule, usually 7–10 days later, to target newly hatched lice.
Clean all personal items that may have contacted the head: pillowcases, hats, hairbrushes, and towels. Wash them in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
Follow these steps precisely to maximize the effectiveness of the lotion and minimize the risk of resistance or recurrence.