How to effectively remove lice from children? - briefly
Apply an approved pediatric lice treatment, then comb wet hair with a fine-tooth lice comb, repeating the combing every 7–10 days for two cycles. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum surroundings to eliminate remaining eggs.
How to effectively remove lice from children? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice in children requires a systematic approach that combines accurate detection, appropriate treatment, thorough combing, and environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the presence of live lice and viable eggs (nits) by parting the hair close to the scalp and examining the base of each strand. Live insects appear brownish and move quickly, while nits are oval, tan, and firmly attached to the hair shaft.
Choose a treatment based on availability and resistance patterns:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to the package instructions, usually after towel‑drying the hair and leaving the product on for 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Prescription agents such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion. These are reserved for cases where OTC products fail or resistance is suspected.
- Physical methods: a hot air device that raises scalp temperature to 50 °C for several minutes, or a silicone‑based lotion that suffocates the insects. Both require professional application.
After chemical or physical treatment, perform meticulous wet combing:
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner to wet hair.
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends.
- Divide the hair into sections; comb each section from root to tip, wiping the comb after every pass.
- Repeat the combing process at 24‑hour intervals for three consecutive days to capture newly hatched lice.
Environmental control minimizes reinfestation:
- Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °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, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories during the treatment period.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up inspection 7‑10 days after the initial treatment to verify eradication. If any live lice are found, repeat the chosen medication or switch to an alternative class, ensuring compliance with the recommended interval between applications.