How should medicated water be used for lice? - briefly
Apply the medicated solution to wet hair, fully saturating the scalp and hair shafts, then cover with a plastic cap for the duration indicated on the product label. After the prescribed time, rinse thoroughly and repeat the treatment at the interval specified to ensure complete eradication.
How should medicated water be used for lice? - in detail
Medicated water intended for lice control must be applied according to a strict protocol to achieve maximum efficacy and minimize adverse effects.
First, select a product that contains an FDA‑approved active ingredient such as permethrin, pyrethrin, or dimethicone. Verify the concentration on the label; typical formulations range from 0.5 % to 1 % for permethrin‑based solutions.
Preparation begins with washing the affected individual’s hair with a mild, non‑medicated shampoo. Rinse thoroughly and towel‑dry until damp but not dripping. Apply the medicated solution evenly, ensuring saturation of the scalp and all hair shafts. Use a calibrated spray bottle or a cup with a narrow spout to distribute the liquid without excess runoff.
Leave the solution on the scalp for the time specified by the manufacturer, commonly 10 minutes for permethrin and up to 30 minutes for dimethicone. During this period, avoid rinsing, towel‑drying, or exposing the hair to heat sources.
After the prescribed exposure, rinse the hair with lukewarm water until the solution is completely removed. Follow with a regular shampoo to eliminate residual product. No additional hair‑care products should be applied for at least 24 hours.
Repeat the treatment after seven days to target newly hatched lice that survived the initial application. If infestation persists after two cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative regimens.
Safety considerations include:
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect hypersensitivity.
- Keep the product away from eyes, mouth, and open wounds; flush immediately with water if contact occurs.
- Store the solution in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets, and discard any expired containers.
Monitoring involves inspecting the scalp daily for live lice and viable nits. Use a fine‑toothed comb to remove nits after each treatment; this mechanical step enhances overall success.
Proper adherence to the described steps ensures effective eradication of lice while reducing the risk of resistance and irritation.