How to care for hair with lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion and use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice and nits, repeating the process every 2–3 days until no insects are visible. Then launder clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and thoroughly clean the living area to prevent re‑infestation.
How to care for hair with lice? - in detail
Lice infestation requires prompt, systematic action to protect scalp health and prevent re‑infestation.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs by parting the hair close to the scalp and inspecting the roots with a magnifying lens. Viable nits appear as oval, yellow‑white structures firmly attached to the shaft; live lice are small, brown, and move quickly.
Next, implement a treatment regimen within 24 hours of detection:
- Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide according to the product label; repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp, conditioned hair; comb from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after each pass. Perform this process at least twice daily for one week.
- Rinse hair with lukewarm water; avoid hot water, which can damage hair shafts and irritate the scalp.
If chemical agents are unsuitable, consider alternative methods:
- Apply a 1 % dimethicone solution; leave for 10 minutes before combing.
- Use a mixture of 10 % tea tree oil and carrier oil; apply to the scalp, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb thoroughly.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of recurrence:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °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; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Follow‑up checks are essential. Re‑examine the hair 7 days after the initial treatment; repeat the combing process if any nits remain. Conduct a final inspection 14 days post‑treatment to confirm eradication. Maintaining regular scalp hygiene and avoiding head‑to‑head contact will minimize future infestations.