How to eliminate lice and nits from a child? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion as directed, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs from the hair. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days and launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How to eliminate lice and nits from a child? - in detail
Removing head lice and their eggs from a child requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Use a fine-toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair to separate strands and reveal live insects and ova. Examine the scalp from the hairline to the nape, focusing on behind the ears and the crown where lice congregate.
If live lice are detected, apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label. Follow these guidelines:
- Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips.
- Leave the preparation on for the specified duration, usually 10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Wait the recommended interval (often 7–10 days) and repeat the treatment to target newly hatched nymphs.
After chemical treatment, perform a second combing session 24 hours later to remove any remaining nits. Use a fine-toothed nit comb, moving from the scalp outward in 1‑inch sections. Dispose of each combed-out egg by flushing it down the toilet or placing it in a sealed bag.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk:
- Wash the child’s bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the child’s hair daily for two weeks. If live lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle and verify that all household items have been decontaminated. Persistent cases may require prescription‑strength medication or consultation with a healthcare professional.