How should you treat lice in a child? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or mousse) according to the label, leave it on for the recommended time, and repeat the dose after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits. Follow with thorough combing of wet hair to remove remaining eggs and wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water.
How should you treat lice in a child? - in detail
Detecting an infestation requires a thorough scalp examination. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on damp hair, moving from the scalp outward. Examine the entire head, including behind the ears and at the nape, for live insects, viable nymphs, or viable eggs (nits) attached within 1 mm of the scalp.
Treatment options
- Over‑the‑counter (OTC) pediculicides – Permethrin 1 % lotion or pyrethrin‑based shampoos. Apply to dry hair, leave on for the manufacturer‑specified time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse. Repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Prescription agents – Spinosad 0.9 % lotion, malathion 0.5 % liquid, or ivermectin 0.5 % lotion. Follow exact dosing instructions; most require a single application with a second dose 7 days later.
- Mechanical removal – Wet‑comb technique using a nit comb. Comb hair in sections, rinsing the comb after each pass. Perform daily for at least 10 days, then twice weekly for an additional two weeks.
- Alternative methods – Dimethicone‑based products create a coating that suffocates lice. Apply to dry hair, leave for 30 minutes, then wash out. Evidence for essential oils is limited; they should not replace approved treatments.
Safety considerations
- Verify the child’s age against product labeling; some agents are not approved for children under 2 years.
- Use gloves when handling chemicals; avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Do not combine multiple chemical treatments, as this increases toxicity risk.
- For allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Environmental control
- Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones during treatment.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the scalp 7–10 days after the first application. If live lice persist, repeat the chosen chemical treatment or continue mechanical removal.
- Conduct a final check two weeks after the last treatment to confirm eradication.
- Educate caregivers on early detection and prompt treatment to prevent recurrence.
By adhering to these steps—accurate identification, evidence‑based medication or thorough combing, strict safety protocols, and diligent environmental measures—head‑lice infestations in children can be eliminated efficiently and safely.