How should I treat a child's lice at home? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment shampoo or lotion as directed, leave it on for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. Comb out any remaining nits with a fine‑toothed comb, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, and wash clothing, bedding, and toys in hot water.
How should I treat a child's lice at home? - in detail
Treating head lice in a child at home requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or mechanical removal, hygiene measures, and environmental control.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp for live insects or viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair to improve visibility and reduce breakage.
Select a treatment method:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides – shampoos, lotions, or creams containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, typically after rinsing hair and leaving the preparation on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Prescription options – 0.5 % malathion, 0.1 % ivermectin, or oral spinosad for resistant cases. These require a physician’s approval and must follow exact dosing instructions.
- Mechanical removal – wet‑combing with a metal nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. This method avoids chemicals but demands meticulous combing from scalp to tips, flushing the comb after each pass.
After applying any chemical agent, follow these hygiene steps:
- Wash the child’s hair with a regular shampoo to remove residual product.
- Comb out dead insects and detached nits with a fine comb.
- Launder clothing, bedding, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Prevent re‑infestation by:
- Advising the child to avoid head‑to‑head contact during play.
- Instructing caregivers not to share hats, hairbrushes, or headphones.
- Checking all family members within 24 hours; treat any additional cases promptly.
Monitor the scalp for three weeks. If live lice persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy or resistance testing.